Lance Nielsen — 2021-22 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year

Background

The National Federation of State High School Associations named Lincoln Public Schools Supervisor of Music Lance Nielsen the 2021-22 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Nebraska. This organization annually recognizes outstanding high school music directors, educators, supervisors and adjudicators. Nominees must exemplify the highest standards of ethical conduct and carry the endorsement of their respective state high school association. Significant and/or long-term contributions to interscholastic high school music activities is an important criterion in evaluating candidates. Nielsen supervises music in six high schools, 12 middle schools and 39 elementary schools. Nielsen also has taught for 30 years at both the K-12 and college levels.

Explanation

The National Federation of State High School Associations named Lincoln Public Schools Supervisor of Music Lance Nielsen the 2021-22 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Nebraska.

Dan Masters, assistant director with the Nebraska School Activities Association, had this to say about Nielsen in his nomination letter:

“There may not be another music educator in Nebraska or the Midwest that has made such a resounding impact on music education. Dr. Lance Nielsen has left a footprint of success across Nebraska, the United States and abroad…Dr. Nielsen has transcended to notoriety through humbleness and servant leadership. Countless hours have been spent traveling to serve as a speaker, to author guidance in music education, and to serve the next generation through committee work. His servant leadership has always put others ahead of self. Music educators from all over gravitate to his leadership.”

Proposal

That the Lincoln Board of Education adopt the following resolution:

WHEREAS, the National Federation of State High School Associations named Lincoln Public Schools Supervisor of Music Lance Nielsen the 2021-22 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Nebraska; and

WHEREAS, Lance Nielsen has dedicated the last 30 years of his career to music education; and

WHEREAS, Lance Nielsen has proven himself to be a leader in music education, not only within Lincoln Public Schools but in the state, country and abroad; and

WHEREAS, Lance Nielsen is a true servant leader, always putting the needs of his colleagues before his own; and

WHEREAS, Lance Nielsen has made a resounding impact on music education;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Lincoln Board of Education does hereby congratulate Lance Nielsen for winning the 2021-22 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Nebraska from the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Updated March 23, 2022