Staff Spotlight: Travis Henninger - physical education and health teacher at Scott Middle School

March 31, 2026

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Travis Henninger, physical education and health teacher at Scott Middle School.

“Travis Henninger has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student health through an innovative approach to physical fitness and a dedication to comprehensive wellness education. Serving as both a health educator and the athletic director at Scott, Travis goes above and beyond to ensure all students feel safe, capable and equipped with the tools they need to navigate adulthood successfully.

Travis treats every student with love and encouragement. By combining outstanding dedication to physical fitness with a compassionate approach to mental and emotional well-being. He has made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of students and families in the Scott community.

Whether a student is a varsity athlete or a novice, the students are treated with the same level of encouragement, fostering a belief that fitness and health is for everyone no matter what your age is. Travis has created his legacy by instilling a passion for lifetime fitness that students carry with them long after they graduate from Scott Middle School.” - Eileen Lindgren, paraeducator at Scott Middle School

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I am a health, physical education and weight training teacher at Scott Middle School. I also serve as the athletic director at Scott.

How long have you worked for LPS?
This is my sixth year of teaching in LPS and all of them have been at Scott Middle School!

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
My dad was a teacher, counselor and administrator in LPS, however, he never pushed me to pursue education. Despite seeing the physical and emotional demand placed on educators, I also witnessed how rewarding this profession can be.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
The staff at Scott Middle School have always been very welcoming and supportive. Throughout my six years at Scott, I have developed lifelong friendships with some of the staff members. I currently teach sixth and eighth grade students, and it is rewarding to watch the students grow from sixth graders to young adults as eighth graders. As a teacher and athletic director, I am passionate about educating and building relationships with students in the classroom and sporting events.

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

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
Yes! I attended Sheridan Elementary, Holmes Elementary, Lefler Middle and Southeast High School.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
After four years of teaching, I completed a masters degree in educational leadership from Doane University. I never thought I would want to become a school administrator, however, I can see myself pursuing that career change in the future.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
Lincoln is home to me and always will be. It has Midwest charm and I get to experience The Good Life. Downtown Lincoln on Husker game days is always an enjoyable experience because I am able to watch the sports I love, while also meeting new people from all across the state.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
Recently, I read “Dream Like a Champion” by John Cook. In the book, he discussed how initially he wanted to coach football but ended up coaching volleyball instead. The book was inspiring because even though he was winning almost every match at Nebraska, he adapted and changed his coaching and leadership methods to become the best of the best.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
I had great teachers who positively impacted my life in each school I attended through LPS. I also had great professors at Doane during my undergrad and graduate program.

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

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