Five Lincoln educators honored at annual LPS teacher recognition event

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Five educators were honored Tuesday at the annual Lincoln Public Schools Thank You Teacher event.

LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman said teachers provide “so much” for their students.

“You provide inspiration, motivation, and ultimately – dependability,” Gausman said in a press release. “In honor of this teacher recognition event I thank you for the countless hours you dedicate to our children. I thank you for your relentless commitment to our students. May today be a reminder of how appreciated and adored you are.”

The district asked students and families in Lincoln to nominate a favorite teacher who has made an impact in their lives.

This year’s winning educators and the people who nominated them:

• Preschool – Grade 2: Emily Mujica, kindergarten teacher at Arnold Elementary School; nominated by parent Paige Leising.

• Grades 3-5: Kris Jenkins, third grade teacher at Saratoga Elementary School; nominated by Remy and Gena Matthiessen.

• Middle School: Thomas Arellano, PE/Health teacher at Schoo Middle School; nominated by Schoo student Bella Lester.

• High School: Emily Geldmeier, journalism teacher at East High School; nominated by East senior Hope Shortridge.

• Retired: Kim Ridder, retired from Scott Middle School; nominated by Scott eighth grade student Payton Utemark.