Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Cody Thatcher, teacher at Schoo Middle School.

“Mr. Thatcher is an excellent teacher who plans well for engaging instruction; he finds many fun and exciting ways to make world history relevant for his students. He has high expectations for all students' achievement in his classroom, and he consistently motivates and encourages them so that they believe in themselves, too. Mr. Thatcher also contributes to our school through his work on the School Improvement Committee and by coaching intramural athletic teams.” - Allysa Diehl, Schoo Middle School principal

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.

I am a seventh grade social studies teacher at Schoo Middle School. I also serve as the varsity girls soccer coach at Lincoln Northwest High School.

How long have you worked for LPS?

I was a substitute teacher for LPS for a year and was hired by Schoo Middle School for the 2015-2016 school year. I'm in my 12th year teaching history at Schoo and I absolutely love it!

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?

I've wanted to be a history teacher my whole life. My third grade teacher, Mrs Breen, said I was the only third grader who knew the names of my senators and congressmen at the time. I've always been interested in history, and teaching is a way to share my passion for working with youth and show them that history class doesn't have to be boring. I love coming up with creative lessons, whether it involves my history parody YouTube channel "DJ Thatch" or having students participate in hands-on activities to make history come to life. 

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?

My favorite part about my job is getting to build our classroom community. Each day is something different and I truly love what I get to teach. I've been able to build great connections with families and have taught many groups of siblings throughout the years. I have a great team at Schoo and we work hard to serve and support every kid, every day. 

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

Community.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?

I'm a proud LPS graduate (Class of 2010). I attended Pershing Elementary, Mickle Middle and Lincoln Northeast High School. I'm a proud lifelong resident of North Lincoln!

What path did you take after completing your formal education?

I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for my teaching degree. While working at LPS, I earned two Master of Education degrees from Doane University in curriculum and instruction and educational leadership, respectively. Before I was a teacher, I spent a decade working in the Community Learning Centers (CLC) program at Pershing Elementary School through the YMCA. I continued working at the CLC summer camp program for the early years of my teaching career for a total of 14 years.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?

I love seeing how welcoming we are to all in Lincoln. I'm proud that Lincoln is my home and I'm proud to work for Lincoln Public Schools. 

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?

I'm an avid reader so this is a difficult choice! I loved the Goosebumps, Captain Underpants and Arthur book series.

Share a shoutout to a former educator who impacted your life.

Wow! I've had so many amazing teachers who have impacted my life. I've taken bits and pieces of their classrooms and have carried it on into my classroom. Here are a few who immediately come to mind. Elementary: Mrs. Bartek, Mrs. Hoffman, Mrs. Palensky, Mrs. Breen, Miss Dorn, and Mrs. Hensley. Middle: Mrs. Ainsley and Mr. Rousseau. High School: Mrs. Holliday, Mrs. Thompson and Mrs. Nugent. Plus countless colleagues at Schoo Middle School!

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