Kuhl collects state award for caring role as school psychologist

October 14, 2025

Molly Kuhl’s ability to view students, teachers and families through compassionate and caring lenses has led to many award-winning moments at Lincoln Public Schools.
 
The Nebraska School Psychologists Association (NSPA) honored Kuhl for her contributions to the profession this fall with the NSPA Outstanding School Psychologist Award. The state group presents the award to one person each year who showcases exceptional work ethic, dedication and commitment in their school district. Kuhl has been a school psychologist in Nebraska for nearly 20 years and began her 13th year at LPS in August.
 
Kuhl currently helps students at Lakeview Elementary School, Nuernberger Education Center and Don Sherrill Education Center. She said it was heartwarming to receive the award in front of friends and co-workers at the NSPA’s annual conference.
 
“I was truly honored to accept this award alongside not only my fellow LPS school psychologists, but also several former LPS school psychs, former interns and practicum students I have supervised and colleagues from graduate school,” Kuhl said. “I’ve been able to get to know all of my peers pretty well throughout my 19-year career, and it means a lot to have gained their respect.”

 
LPS Special Education Supervisor Carrie Foster nominated Kuhl for the statewide recognition. She felt Kuhl was a role model for Nebraska school psychologists because of her calm presence and student-first mindset in every situation.
 
“Molly excels at building bridges between students, families and staff, and she approaches even the most difficult conversations with a unique blend of empathy, clarity and grace,” Foster said. “Her ability to navigate complex situations while maintaining a focus on the student’s well-being is a testament to her skill and integrity.”
 
Cassie Dietrich works as a school psychologist team leader at LPS and is based at East High School. She said hundreds of people have benefited from Kuhl’s kind outlook on life and her wide array of problem-solving talents.
 
“Molly is a great school psychologist because she understands the importance of collaboration while advocating for students and families,” Dietrich said. “Molly’s calm and collected demeanor helps to lead these meetings and conversations to help find the best solution.”
 
LPS school psychologists help children with academic, social, behavioral and emotional needs. They partner with families, teachers, administrators and professionals from across Lincoln to assist students at all grade levels. They are highly trained in both psychology and education fields and have expertise in mental health, curriculum and instruction, child development and school law.
 
Kuhl works with multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) academic support teams, completes functional behavior assessments and oversees behavior intervention plans at her schools. She also completes special education evaluations and provides mental health services for students.

 
Kuhl said she enjoys being a school psychologist because of the positive relationships she has built with other people. She has used that deep reservoir of community goodwill to create bright moments at LPS every day.
 
“It is rewarding because we get to help support students, families and teachers by problem solving, identifying needs and connecting them to services and supports that will make a big difference in their lives,” Kuhl said. “I have several students who I have had the privilege of working with through their entire academic careers. It has been so rewarding to see them grow and overcome significant challenges.”
 
Dietrich and Foster said Kuhl’s co-workers respect and trust her because of her caring nature. She sets aside time to talk to fellow school psychologists, leads many assessment meetings and maintains strong communication lines with teachers, administrators and families. She also passes on many important lessons to school psychology students who study the profession with her.
 
“Molly is also a source of strength and mentorship for her colleagues, always willing to lend a helping hand and share her expertise,” Foster said. “This extends to her role in supporting interns and practicum students, where she patiently teaches them best practices and ensures they have a positive, supportive experience as they begin their careers.”
 
“Molly is always willing to help and provide her knowledge to work through any situation,” Dietrich said. “Everyone knows they can count on her! Molly helps put everything into perspective to help ground any situation.”

 
Kuhl’s presence in LPS buildings has led to hundreds of positive outcomes for local children. She said it is encouraging to watch students become more confident and gain many valuable life skills over time.
 
“Being a school psychologist has helped me redefine what success looks like,” Kuhl said. “Success can look different for every single student I help, and I love being able to advocate for their needs. I also love working on school teams with teachers, counselors, social workers, speech-language pathologists and other disciplines. It’s inspiring to work with passionate people who come together to support students and families every day.”
 
Visit our website to learn more about our Special Education Department and services at https://home.lps.org/specialed/. 
 
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