Hartley teacher Lacey Eddy wins prestigious Scottish Rite Award

Hartley Elementary School kindergarten teacher Lacey Eddy is the 2023 Scottish Rite Educator of the Year. 

Her family, Lincoln Public Schools leaders and local Scottish Rite Organization chapter members surprised Eddy during a school assembly in Hartley’s gym on May 12.

“It was very surprising. I am trying to let it sink in. I think just to be recognized for doing something in a way that you love is just amazing,” Eddy said.  

In 1964, the local chapter of Scottish Rite developed the education committee to recognize excellent classroom teachers and help make the public aware of the vital role a classroom teacher plays in educating youth. The award recipient also receives a check for $10,000 from the organization.

“We welcome opportunities to recognize excellence among teachers and make the public aware of the vital role a teacher plays in molding today’s youth for a better tomorrow,” LPS Associate Superintendent for Human Resources Vann Price said. 

Eddy has taught in Lincoln Public Schools for more than 20 years. She taught at Campbell Elementary School for a year before moving to Hartley where she has been for 21 years. Most of Eddy’s career has been teaching first grade until she transitioned to kindergarten this year. She is also a Lincoln Public Schools graduate and completed her student teaching at the school district. 

“I absolutely love learning. I am passionate about learning, learning new things as a teacher, trying new things as a teacher and helping kids realize how much potential they have,”  Eddy said. 

"Lacey is an exceptional educator. She has devoted her life to instilling the love of learning into all students that enter her life,” Hartley Principal Rob Rickert said. “She inspires me to be a better leader.  I'm thankful that she chooses to share her gift at Hartley."

Eddy will be formally honored during a special ceremony in the fall at the Steve Joel District Leadership Center (LPS district office), where she’ll be featured along with past winners on an interactive display outside the boardroom.

Check out some highlights from Eddy's surprise below: 

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