Staff Spotlight: Katelyn Johnson - fourth grade teacher at Eastridge Elementary School

April 17, 2025

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 Katelyn Johnson, fourth grade teacher at Eastridge Elementary School.

“Katelyn goes above and beyond each day to support the students in her classroom and the students at Eastridge. She is a key member of our School Improvement Committee and our MTSS-B/PAR Committee. Katelyn continuously plans fun activities for staff members to engage in. Katelyn is a vital part of Eastridge Elementary and takes pride in the work that she does to support the Eastridge school community. We are lucky to have her!” 

How long have you worked for LPS?
I am in my 10th year with LPS. I began my teaching career in January 2015 as an interventionist at Clinton Elementary. The next school year, I was hired to teach fourth grade at Eastridge Elementary and have been here ever since!

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I am a proud product of LPS. 

I also had the privilege of growing up watching my mom be an amazing educator. I would often spend summer days in her classroom and help her set up for a new school year. I watched her change and touch the lives of so many students and families. I wanted to make an impact like my mom was making and also share the teaching journey with her. 

I am extremely proud to say that my mom and I now help each other set up our classrooms each year and we share ideas with one another. It has been so special sharing this profession with my mom and it has bonded us even more!

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite part of working at Eastridge Elementary is the small community vibe! We are a smaller school, but with that, I have been able to connect with so many students and families. One thing I love about being in a small school is that I have had so many siblings and get to interact and build stronger relationships with my families. I love watching students grow throughout their elementary years and it is so special when they come back and visit!

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I attended Morley Elementary, Lux Middle School and East High School.

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

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
Lincoln has a small town feel! I am constantly making connections with people and realizing we have so many things and people in common. People in Lincoln are helpful, kind and genuinely care about one another. I am so proud to be raising my family in the Lincoln community.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
One of my favorite childhood books growing up was "Where the Wild Things Are"! I had so many educators throughout my schooling who made learning and reading fun!

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
One teacher who impacted me immensely was my student teaching cooperating teacher, Sonya Zimmerman. She showed me what a positive classroom environment can do for the culture of your classroom. She also led by example and showed me how powerful family connections are. I am so grateful for all I learned during my time in her classroom. She is a huge part of my teaching path!

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

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