Staff Spotlight: Jim Wrenholt - gifted mentor at Schoo and Mickle middle schools

February 7, 2025

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 Jim Wrenholt, gifted mentor at Schoo and Mickle middle schools.

“We love Jim. He makes learning about math and the history of math applicable and engaging for students. He integrates history into math lessons, and provides manipulatives and hands-on devices so that students are working beyond paper and pencil to understand math concepts. He is himself a lifelong learner and pulls in a variety of resources for his students. Students love him.” Joan Jacobs, supervisor of Gifted Education.

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I'm a mentor in the gifted program. I am currently teaching Algebra 2 at Mickle and Schoo.

How long have you worked for LPS?
This is my fourth year as a math mentor. I also taught guitar classes at Lincoln High in the late 70s. I did my student teaching at East High School.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I was bored with retirement and knew about the gifted program from my grandchildren.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
It's fun working with young students who are curious and capable.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I'm from Clearwater in northeast Nebraska and attended school there. 

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
After graduating as a math major from Doane, I was drafted and served in the U.S. Army. I then used the G.I. Bill to attend grad school and obtain a teacher's certificate at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I spent most of my career as a programmer and running a small software company.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
I like the parks, the trails and the libraries. I enjoy music concerts and sporting events.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
"The Pirate Lafitte and the Battle of New Orleans.” I liked many of the books from the Landmark series of biography and history. I was surprised that those books were still being used when my grandson told me they were reading the same book about Lafitte.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Dr. Mildred Gross of Doane. She kicked me out of Freshman Calculus and made me take algebra and trigonometry over as my high school math wasn't very good. She taught that class herself and got me started with a more rigorous foundation.

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

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