Staff Spotlight: Nicole Shively - music teacher at Lincoln East HIgh School

June 4, 2026

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Nicole Shively, music teacher at Lincoln East High School.

“She's always there for her students and cares about what she does. She's a wonderful person to communicate with. We appreciate the amount of work she does for the band and just in general to better the community at East.” - Lenora, Lincoln East High School student. 

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I am a music teacher at East High School, where I teach Band, Music Technology and Guitar I & II. As the assistant band director, I teach marching and concert band in addition to leading several extracurricular ensembles. I am also the music department chair and the sponsor for East's Tri-M Music Honor Society chapter.

How long have you worked for LPS?
I just finished my eighth year teaching in LPS.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I always knew that I wanted to help people with my career, and I thought that becoming a music teacher would use my strengths in a way that I could really make a difference!

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite parts of working at East are the relationships I have built and the growth I have helped foster. One of the best parts of teaching high school music is that you get to see students through all four years of high school. It is incredible to see them learn and develop from incoming freshmen to young adults ready to take on the world. I am also blessed to work with the best team of coworkers at East, who I learn from and laugh with every day! 

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

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I am a proud product of Lincoln Public Schools! I went to Morley Elementary School, Lux Middle School and East High School.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
After graduating from East High School, I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and earned my Bachelor of Music Education degree. I was very involved at UNL with the Cornhusker Marching Band, Phi Mu, Nebraska Human Resources Institute (NHRI) and the Honors Program. After graduation, I was hired to teach at East, and I have been there ever since!

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
Lincoln has been my home for my entire life. I love that there are so many opportunities, but it still feels like a big small town. I also love how Lincoln is an entertainment hub for Nebraska with Husker sports, Pinnacle Bank Arena and the Lied Center!

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
My favorite book series growing up was “The Boxcar Children.” I probably read every single one of those books! I loved trying to solve the mysteries alongside the characters. 

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
I could shout out so many wonderful former teachers, but I will recognize one who continues to impact me every day. Mr. Thorpe was my band director in high school, and he has now been my mentor and colleague for the past eight years at East. He is one of the greatest educators and human beings that I know. As his student, Mr. Thorpe created opportunities for me to grow and a supportive culture for me to find a home in music. As a teacher and colleague, he trusted me to help lead our band program and has helped me become the teacher that I am today.

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

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