Staff Spotlight: Mark Tackett - budget technician at LPS CLCs

August 29, 2025

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Mark Tackett, budget technician at LPS Community Learning Centers.

“Mark has an enormously important role in our department. He manages millions of dollars from multiple funding sources and ensures that we are adhering to all of the guidelines and expectations of each source. He works extremely hard to ensure that our Community Learning Centers (CLC) lead agency partners and staff have clear information and makes them feel supported and valued in our partnerships. When one thinks about all of the staff involved with delivering extended learning opportunities, the person who handles the budget isn’t the first person who comes to mind, but without this critical role, we would not be able to do what we do for our students!” - Nola Derby-Bennett, LPS Community Learning Centers director

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I am the budget technician for the Community Learning Centers department. I am responsible for processing invoices from our CLC community partners for expenses related to before-school, after-school and summer programming at each of our 31 CLC schools. I also manage budgets from numerous grants and funds that CLC has.

How long have you worked for LPS?
Ten years.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
At a point in my life when I was working three to four part-time jobs, I was encouraged to apply for my first position at the CLC office to do work that was similar to what I was already doing at one of my part-time jobs. It was an opportunity that I felt would lead to a larger one.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
I enjoy hearing about some of the interesting opportunities our students at CLC schools receive. With it being a priority to serve low-income students during CLC programming, I find it rewarding that some of the highest-need students receive extended learning opportunities outside of normal school hours.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I attended Glenwood Community School District in Glenwood, Iowa.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I went to Iowa Western Community College for two years, followed by three years at Peru State College. I originally went to college to become a PE teacher, graduated with a teaching degree, and substitute taught for a few years before I joined the Community Learning Centers as a part-time office associate in 2015. After becoming full-time a few years later, I moved to my current position in May 2024.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
I appreciate the diversity that this community has. There wasn't much of that in my hometown.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Brian Albert was a PE teacher at the high school I went to in Glenwood, Iowa. Even though I eventually chose not to teach for a career, his ability to make relationships inspired me.

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

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