Staff Spotlight: Tom Walker-Assistant Custodial Supervisor at Kooser Elementary School

Every week, we’ll shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! Get to know the wonderful people making a positive impact across various areas within LPS. This week, meet Tom Walker, assistant custodial supervisor at Kooser Elementary School.

“Tom, or Mr. Tom as the Kooser students call him, is hard working, dedicated, loyal and positive. All of the 900+ students adore Mr. Tom and enjoy bringing him encouraging notes and crafts. No matter what is thrown at Tom during his day, he always graciously says ‘okay’ and ‘no problem.’ Things done behind the scenes are sometimes taken for granted, but it is very well known that Mr. Tom is behind them during the day at Kooser Elementary.”- Stacey Vollbrecht, registrar at Kooser Elementary School. 

How long have you worked for LPS?
Ten years.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
The encouragement of people I knew who were employed at LPS who thought I would be a good fit and would also have opportunities for advancement.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite thing is being around young kids and being able to make them smile and hopefully having an overall positive influence on people.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I attended Saratoga Elementary School from kindergarten to fourth grade, then Arnold Elementary School, Goodrich Middle School and Lincoln High School, graduating in 1980.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
After graduating high school, I worked for 30 years as a pressman at Nebraska Litho and Jacob North Printing.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
My favorite books as a child were any and all of the Peanuts paperback collection. Snoopy is my favorite character.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
The progressiveness and the diversity of the community.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
The teachers I remember fondly are the entire staff of teachers whose rooms I was responsible for cleaning when I first got to Kooser. As I got to know them, they made me feel like an important part of the school community and became like an extended family.

Do you know a LPS staff member we should feature for Staff Spotlight? Fill out this form to nominate them!

---