Staff Spotlight: Erin Heiden - inventory specialist at LPS Distribution Center

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 Erin Heiden, inventory specialist at LPS Distribution Center.

“Erin is a valued asset to Distribution and LPS as a whole. Erin is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of her role as an inventory specialist and the handling of surplus items that make their way to the distribution center year round. She is hardworking, helpful and dedicated in making the everyday operation of surplus go as smoothly as possible, taking on tasks with little to no supervision and making sensible decisions that help teachers and staff throughout LPS. Erin can wear multiple hats in a week or even daily by assisting whenever needed in other operations of distribution outside of the surplus aspect and is always happy and willing to do so. I am extremely grateful to have Erin as a co-worker and even more so to call her as a friend.” - Kendall Rinehart, travel specialist at LPS Distribution Center. 

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I am an inventory specialist. Dale and I manage and organize all of the surplus that is sent in from all LPS schools and buildings. This includes everything from furniture, books, computers, electronics, office supplies and equipment, etc. We then choose to either surplus the items for teachers to come pick out for reuse in their classroom or to auction the item on public surplus. We also update the records in Core and TMA for LPS inventory and handle the recycling of books and old electronics.

How long have you worked for LPS?
I started at LPS in 2008 in Nutrition Services. I made the switch over to the distribution center in 2021.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I was a stay-at-home mom at the time and was looking for something part time that would still allow me to be home when my kids were home. LPS was an excellent fit!

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
The people I have worked with and the friendships I have formed over the years have made a lasting impression in my life. I take pride in my work and what I am able to accomplish each day. With each day being so different, I love coming to work every day!

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I attended Yankee Hill when it was a K-2, then Lakeview for grades 3-6, Everett when it was a junior high for grades 7-8 and then Park in ninth grade for its first year as a middle school. I graduated from Lincoln High School! Go Links!

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I worked in finance until adding twins to our family of three and was blessed to be able to stay at home with them until they started their school years.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
I love that Lincoln feels like a big-small town that is very culturally diverse. I love getting to meet people from all over the world.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
“Night of the Twisters” because I think it instilled in me how important it is to help others in need.

Share a shout out to a teacher who impacted your life.
It's really hard to pick just one! But Mr. Cuddy really stands out. I think the humor he brought into the classroom made learning and being there so much fun.

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

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