Staff Spotlight: Lisa Spilker - reading interventionist and language arts teacher at Goodrich

July 25, 2025

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Lisa Spilker, reading interventionist and language arts teacher at Goodrich Middle School.

“In the classroom, Mrs. Spilker provides instruction that positively impacts students struggling with reading. She finds creative ways to engage students. In her intervention class, reading is not just about reading; reading is about thinking, too. Mrs. Spilker is as much a leader as she is a learner and we could not ask for a better split as a reading interventionist leading Goodrich reading teachers toward effective, results-driven instruction in reading classrooms.” - Amanda Krivda, Goodrich Middle School building coordinator

How long have you worked for LPS?
The 2025-2026 school year will be the start of my third year with LPS.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I enjoy working with a diverse population of students at LPS. I have found the district to be very welcoming and inclusive. The staff members in my building, but also across the district, have been open and inviting.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite and most rewarding part of working at Goodrich has been connecting with students and learning about their cultures. I have found that when I consistently show up for kids, they will open up and make personal growth. Working with the staff at Goodrich has been such a joy! Everyone brings their own fun vibes, making our time together so enjoyable. Whether we're bouncing around ideas or just sharing a laugh during meetings, it really feels like a close-knit team. I love the friendly vibe we have and the great friendships that have come out of it!

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I enjoyed my middle school and high school years in Minnesota, proudly representing the Osseo Orioles! After that, I made my way to Nebraska to attend Creighton University, where I was a part of the women’s basketball team as a Bluejay. In my teaching journey, I've had the pleasure of being part of both Norris, where I cheered for the Titans, and Crete, supporting the Cardinals. It's been a wonderful adventure!

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I majored in elementary education for my undergraduate degree and spent 16 years teaching students in grades 3-5. During my time as an elementary teacher, I earned a master's degree in education leadership from Walden University and developed my leadership skills. Additionally, I obtained an endorsement in gifted education from Midland University and taught gifted education for grades 3-8 practicing as a co-teacher and HAL (high-ability learners) teacher. Currently, I am nearly finished pursuing a Nebraska Administration Certificate and a Master of Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
What I love most about the Lincoln community is how family-oriented it is! The city has great public schools and offers plenty of fun social events for families to enjoy together. Plus, Lincoln really promotes a healthy work-life balance, making it easy to spend quality time with loved ones. Overall, it has a wonderfully safe and welcoming vibe that makes it feel like the perfect family town.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
One of my all-time favorite book series is "Little House on the Prairie"! I absolutely loved exploring the adventures of the pioneers. Later on, I became a fourth grade teacher and had the joy of teaching my students about Nebraska's pioneer heritage. It was such a wonderful experience to bring the stories and lessons from those books to life for both myself and my students!

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
My most unforgettable teacher was Mrs. Suman, who taught my mixed-grade classes in third and fourth for two consecutive school years. She was always so kind and had a wonderful way of making our classroom feel welcoming and fun. She always had a special way of recognizing each student's effort in the classroom. I really looked up to her because she had older kids at home who enjoyed some of the same activities I did during my free time, which helped us connect in a special way. I remember when I graduated from high school, she came to my celebration, and when I got married, she sent the sweetest congratulatory card. Once she found out I became a teacher too, she showered me with letters of encouragement until she sadly passed away. She truly made a lasting impact on my life!

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

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