Staff Spotlight: Talisha Yound - second grade teacher at Huntington Elementary School

November 8, 2024

Every week, we’ll shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! Get to know the wonderful people making a positive impact across various areas within LPS. This week, meet Talisha Yound, second grade teacher at Huntington Elementary School.

“Talisha is such an amazing teacher, she works hard to ensure ALL students are included within her room. She demonstrates excellence in teaching to all ability levels along with providing equal access to curriculum through accommodations and modifications within her classroom. She is an advocate for inclusion and creates a cohesive, structured and predictable environment for each and every child who enters her classroom!” - McKenna Machal, special education coordinator

How long have you worked for LPS?
I was hired by LPS in 2014 for local subbing as a student teacher. After graduation in the fall of 2014, I continued subbing full time. In the fall of 2017, I began my full time teaching career at Huntington. 

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I am a proud product of LPS. While attending Northeast High School I had an opportunity to take an early childhood class. While taking that class I learned that I had a love for working with children and preparing small activities. I loved making connections with many teachers growing up and helping classmates. It only felt fitting that I would be part of the education field.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite part of my job is making connections with students and staff. I have been so lucky to work with some amazing colleagues at LPS. I find it most rewarding seeing students achieving goals and feeling proud of themselves.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
Yes - Meadow Lane Elementary School, Mickle Middle School and Northeast High School.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
What I enjoy most about the Lincoln community is how family-oriented it is, especially northeast Lincoln. There's something truly special about how involved families are in working together.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
"StrengthsFinder 2.0" by Tom Rath. Discovering my strengths and learning how to use my greatest natural talents has been very beneficial.

Share a shout out to a teacher who impacted your life.
It is hard to pick just one when there are so many great educators in LPS. Lindsey Thompson, my eighth grade math teacher at Mickle Middle School. She always made learning fun in the classroom and took the time to help students. I have had the opportunity to stay connected with her over the years. Still being a passionate northeast Lincoln educator, I even had the opportunity to sub in her classroom during the early years of my career.

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

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