Staff Spotlight: Anna Stephenson - kindergarten teacher at Brownell Elementary School

March 6, 2026

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Anna Stephenson, kindergarten teacher at Brownell Elementary School.

“Ms. Stephenson goes above and beyond for her kindergarten students. She understands the needs of kindergarteners and adjusts to where they are developmentally. She communicates well with staff and parents to partner together to help her students succeed. Ms. Stephenson always has a smile on her face that helps her students feel wanted in her classroom. She also celebrates their successes with her students and their support people. When students are struggling, she continues to encourage them and seek what will help them learn best. Ms. Stephenson works hard day in and day out for kindergarteners at the beginning of their academic journey. She deserves to be celebrated!” - Kim Teegerstrom, Family Service Lincoln therapist

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
This is my third year as a kindergarten teacher at Brownell Elementary School! I have had the opportunity to serve as kindergarten team leader for the past two years as well as be a part of my school's School Improvement Plan (SIP) team to find ways to best support students at our school!

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I have always wanted to be a teacher and would go home from elementary school and teach my stuffed animals! From then on, I found any experience I could to work with kids, including babysitting, teaching dance, child watch programs, etc. While in college, I taught preschool and fell in love with the early elementary age!

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
Kindergarten is such an exciting year for students as it is their first time being in school! Students learn and grow so much in just a year and I love watching them get excited about learning! The most rewarding part of the job is definitely the relationships that I've made with students throughout the years!

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

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
After high school, I attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and got my bachelor's degree in early childhood and elementary education with a minor in child, youth and family studies!

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
Growing up in the Lincoln community, you realize how it is the biggest “small town.” Everyone has a connection to someone and it gives such a “family feel.” I love finding and making these connections!

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
I have so many favorite childhood books that it is too hard to pick just one! I love and have been influenced by The Giving Tree, A Bad Case of the Stripes, The Lorax and The Best Nest specifically!

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
I have been so blessed to have had so many teachers who have positively impacted my life, including Mr. Hack (fourth/fifth grade), Mrs. Campbell (fifth grade), Mrs. Milana (seventh), and Mr. Epperson (high school).

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

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