Staff Spotlight: Tiffany Johnson - kitchen manager at Meadow Lane Elementary School

May 1, 2026

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Tiffany Johnson, kitchen manager at Meadow Lane Elementary School.

“Tiffany does a great job at Meadow Lane in providing school meals. Tiffany and her team take pride in the meals they serve. The Meadow Lane serving line is full of colorful decorations, a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and caring staff who support the students. Tiffany takes the time to know the students and cares about their success. Tiffany represents all of the nutrition services staff in the department by providing outstanding customer service, quality food and a welcoming environment to support student success. Tiffany and her team feed over 250 breakfast and 415 lunches on a daily basis.” - Andrew Ashelford, LPS director of nutrition services

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I am the kitchen manager at Meadow Lane Elementary. I feed our future generations and have fun doing it. Serving hundreds of kiddos daily wouldn't be possible without my amazing staff, as it truly takes a village.

How long have you worked for LPS?
I started in August 2020 as a nutrition services manager trainee and helped in many kitchens. I spent four years at Rousseau and the past year at Meadow Lane as kitchen manager.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I needed a change and wanted to make a difference in the world, while still being able to spend time with my own kids. Being able to pick them up from school and attend their field trips was something I didn't want to miss out on.

When I was in fifth and sixth grade, we took turns helping out in our school cafeteria serving lunch, which I thought was fun. The lady that took our lunch tickets was always so sweet to everyone. I loved that she always knew all of our names.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
I love getting to see so many of the kiddos every day and make sure they get their tummies full, so they are ready to learn. I love the connections we get to make with students and staff throughout the building. When a kiddo just comes up and gives you a hug it makes it all worth it.

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

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I grew up in Fremont and graduated a Fremont Tiger.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I have a bachelor's degree from Wayne State College. I have worked in fast food, retail, gas stations and as a gymnastics coach and program director. I think all of my years of customer service along with missing teaching kids gymnastics has led me to working for LPS. 

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
I love how diverse our community is, both inside the schools and throughout the neighborhoods and city. I love all the culture and cuisines and kind people. It's a place where everyone truly belongs.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
Growing up, I spent most of my time tumbling, not reading. I did like “The Giver” and the Little House on the Prairie books. I do read much more often in this season of my life. I just finished “Unoffendable” by Brant Hansen, “The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins, and “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert. I also have enjoyed many of Jennie Allen's books.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
My gymnastics coach, Shelly Sandeen, taught me so much more than gymnastics skills. Work ethic, determination, teamwork, resilience, discipline and so much more. Although not a traditional classroom teacher, she still helped shape me into the person I am today and I am so grateful for her. 

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

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