Mann maps out award-winning teaching career at Southwest

May 12, 2025

Southwest High School geography students know they can rely on Leslie Mann to help them navigate all types of academic terrain.
 
The veteran Lincoln Public Schools social studies teacher was honored for her statewide contributions to the profession with the Gildersleeve, Stoddard, Stone Award. The Geographic Educators of Nebraska (GEON) recognized Mann for being a classroom compass for hundreds of Silver Hawks. She began teaching at LPS in 2009 and has become an important member of the LSW community.

 
Mann said she is deeply appreciative of the close-knit environment found in LSW’s social studies department. She said the support from her co-workers has helped her plan and develop lessons that can impact students in positive ways.
 
“Southwest is an amazing place to work,” Mann said. “I’ve taught here my entire career and can’t say enough great things about what it means to me to work here. I love the kids, teachers and staff and most importantly, I work with the most caring and best group of people in the social studies department.”

 
Justin Schreiber works alongside Mann in Southwest’s social studies department and nominated her for the state award. Mann was one of the original teachers of AP Human Geography and Civics when the course was first piloted at Southwest three years ago. She has spent countless hours creating resources and curriculum for the class, which has allowed it to flourish both in terms of academic power and student popularity.
 
“In the classroom, Leslie is a fantastic relationship builder, working with both the highest achievers and students who may be struggling to adjust to AP Human Geography as freshmen, in ways that individually help each student get the most out of her class,” Schreiber said. “There is truly no one more deserving to have their efforts in the field of geography education recognized than Leslie.”
 
LPS K-12 Social Studies Curriculum Specialist Jaci Kellison said Mann has become well-respected both at Southwest and across the school district. Her hardworking, outgoing and caring personality has led to many ocean-crossing outcomes for both students and fellow teachers.
 
“Leslie has contributed to geography education in our district for a number of years in a number of ways,” Kellison said. “She has a knack for breaking down geography concepts so that they are accessible and engaging for ninth grade students, and she is always willing to collaborate with other teachers to co-plan and share ideas.”

 
GEON leaders recognize one person from each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts each year with the Gildersleeve, Stoddard, Stone Award. Recipients promote and enhance geography education in Nebraska through teaching, research, professional development and field inquiries.
 
Mann’s love of social studies topics began when she was a student at Lincoln High. She enjoyed exploring subjects such as history and geography with her fellow Links, and she felt an education career would give her the best chance to pass on that enthusiasm to others.
 
“I had an awesome high school experience and wanted to work with kids, so there was no better combination than being a social studies teacher!” Mann said.

 
Mann began compiling material for AP Human Geography and Civics when LPS decided to include it in the social studies curriculum. Students learn how to analyze many types of geographic data during their time in the course. They explore how people survive in different environments and how they relate to each other in their communities and cities. They also begin to realize how the entire globe is connected, as something that happens in Bangladesh can affect people living in Brazil, Borneo or Boston.
 
“Understanding geography is essential for kids to see and understand the entire world,” Mann said. “Geography helps kids gain awareness and understanding of not only where places are in the world, but how the people of those places live and what impacts their lives. Human geography enriches our global awareness, cultural diversity and the interconnectedness of the world around us.”
 
Kellison said the GEON tribute is significant because it shows how much of an impact teachers can have on future city, state and national leaders. Several LPS teachers have been honored since the Gildersleeve, Stoddard, Stone Award was established in 2008.

 
“It’s important to recognize teachers because our democracy depends on quality social studies teachers to empower our students to be active, engaged and informed members of our schools and communities,” Kellison said.
 
Mann said Southwest’s entire staff wants to help students chart successful courses on their current and future pathways.
 
“We have an amazing group of teachers who give countless hours of their time and energy to making LSW a special place to be,” Mann said. “Our department is passionate about social studies classes and making sure our students have the best possible experience.”
 
Visit home.lps.org/socialstudies to learn more about the wide variety of social studies activities that are available for Lincoln Public Schools students.
 
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