Staff Spotlight: Melissa Kepler - Sixth Grade English Language Arts Teacher at NEC

June 13, 2025

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Melissa Kepler, sixth grade English language arts teacher at Nuernberger Education Center.

“Melissa is a teacher who can connect with students of all backgrounds and help them to feel included and valued. She quickly develops rapport with students and is able to maintain this connection through the year. She goes above and beyond. When she hears of a student struggle she will help find resources or introduce resources to staff and students that will help with student needs. This year she has helped students not only grow academically but personally as well. She helps students navigate difficult topics in a respectful manner. She is a great role model for students as they work on improving interactions with adults and learn self advocacy and communication through her non-threatening-include-everyone attitude. Her students always show growth in their learning. All her students grow in reading and writing. They learn what it looks like to be a student by showing effort, paying attention in class, supporting each other, learning to trust in the academic community and building self confidence.” - Paul Ries, retired LPS psychotherapist.

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I teach sixth grade English language arts and special education at Nuernberger Education Center, working with students who struggle with behavioral disorders. My focus is on giving them a second chance—especially for the ones who were never really given a first.

How long have you worked for LPS?
I started at Beattie as a secured entrance monitor in 2017, but have been a teacher since 2021.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I didn’t come into this thinking I’d change the world—I just knew I wanted to work with students who don’t always get the easy road. LPS has a reputation for serving all kinds of learners, and I was drawn to the chance to make a real impact, especially in alternative education. I wanted to be part of a district that doesn’t give up on kids just because they don’t fit the mold. Turns out, this is exactly where I was meant to be.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
Hands down, it’s the relationships. There’s something really powerful about showing up every day for students who aren’t used to people sticking around. My favorite part is when a kid who used to barely make it through the day is suddenly leading a class discussion, cracking jokes or helping someone else stay focused. That shift—that moment when they start to believe in themselves—is everything. The job isn’t easy, but it’s real. And the growth, even if it’s messy and slow, is what keeps me coming back.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I am a former Irving Aardvark and Lincoln High Link.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I tried to follow the footsteps of my family members in the medical field. I tried a lot of different paths and failed every time. I describe myself as a wandering soul during my 20s, and decided to go to UNL when I was 30!

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
Lincoln shows up. Whether it’s for schools, sports, tough conversations, or kids who need extra support—this community steps in. There’s a real sense that people care about each other here, and as an educator, that makes a difference.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
“Holes” by Louis Sachar. It was the first book that made me realize stories could be weird, funny and still carry a ton of meaning. It showed me that even kids who mess up or get labeled still have depth—and that stuck with me. I think about that a lot when I’m teaching my own students.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Robert Holbert. He made history fun for me at Lincoln High and I will never forget him. He is easily the coolest teacher in the history of LPS!

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

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