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 Amanda Rickert, music teacher at Hill Elementary School.

“Amanda works with every student as they enter Hill in kindergarten through fifth grade. She gets students excited for vocal music, grade level performances and musicals, and fun skits!” - Emily Wiebeck, Hill Elementary School principal

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I teach general music at Hill Elementary to kindergarten through fifth grade.

How long have you worked for LPS?
Sixteen wonderful years!

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I did my undergrad at UNL, which included practicum and student teaching in LPS. I loved the LPS students and teachers. The district support of the music program is unmatched to other towns.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite part of being a teacher is the students and staff I get to work with. I have a blast sharing my love of music and fostering growth with my students.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I am from Spirit Lake, Iowa. I attended Spirit Lake elementary, middle and high school.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I've known since middle school that I wanted to do something with music as my job. After high school, I attended UNL from 2005-2009 and graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. I got my first job at Schoo Middle School directly after undergrad.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
Lincoln is a big small town that everybody loves and they end up never leaving — and it's true! I love Lincoln and can't imagine leaving this community.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
I don't think I could say I have a favorite book because I LOVE to read. Reading is a stress reliever for me so I read a lot and I can't pick just one!

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
A shout out to all my former music teachers and Judy Bush who was my cooperating teacher at Fredstrom Elementary and taught me so many things about teaching elementary students.

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