Staff Spotlight: David Allen Jr. - assistant custodial supervisor at Wysong Elementary School

March 13, 2026

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet David Allen Jr., assistant custodial supervisor at Wysong Elementary School.

“I would like to nominate Dave Allen, our assistant custodial supervisor, for his unwavering dedication to maintaining a safe, clean, and functional environment for everyone. His commitment to the daily upkeep of our building is exceptional. He consistently demonstrates incredible hard work, a proactive approach to solving issues, and reliable support that ensures our facilities are always in top condition. He is an essential part of our daily operations and deserves this recognition for his tireless efforts.” - Stephanie Drake, Wysong Elementary School principal

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
As the assistant custodial supervisor for Wysong, I help oversee the building's operation during the day. Most of my cleaning duties center around the lunchroom, but I also respond to messes and technical problems that may occur throughout the facility. For me, coordination and communication are key to an optimal learning environment.

How long have you worked for LPS?
A little over ten years.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
Initially, the inspiration came from my father, who worked for the district at the time, when I was finishing up college and needed a stable career to support myself. For LPS specifically, I liked the idea of giving back to the institution that helped raise me into who I am today. While I'm not in the classroom with the students, I always strive to encourage them to be the best version of themselves.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
Finding a community I can engage in and contribute to. More specifically, it's helping students and staff, especially with the small things.

In one word, what makes you proud to work for LPS?
Potential.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I did! I came to the district in 2004 as a seventh grader at Mickle Middle School, then went on to graduate at Northeast High School in 2010.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I went on to attend the fine arts program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln—Go Huskers! While I completed my bachelor's program, I wanted to invest in a career that I could support myself on while having the opportunity to work on my art and writing in my own time. LPS was a natural fit having been a former student.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
There's a little bit of everything for everyone here, whether it be food, music and entertainment.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
I would credit Katherine Applegate's "Animorphs" series as it's what motivated me to pursue writing as a passion. The way she structured those books around multiple characters with different personalities is something I think about when writing my own stories.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Michelle Hrbek, one of my art teachers when I attended LNE. Always enthusiastic when it came to teaching art and encouraging her students. And Matthew Sontheimer from UNL who provided resources for each art student to pursue their particular interests.

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

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