Thank You Teacher
Recognition Ceremony
2025–2026
LPS educators receive notes of gratitude at Thank You Teacher event
Lincoln residents presented hearts of gratitude Tuesday morning to five teachers who have made inspiring impacts in their classrooms.
Danielle Cathey, Sydney Mickells, Brent Jung, Jamie Policky and Denise Cotton were honored for their leadership talents at the 2026 Thank You Teacher ceremony. Students, families and community members came to the Nebraska Governor’s Mansion to celebrate their legacies of classroom excellence.
Cathey teaches kindergarten at Adams Elementary School, Mickells guides special education students at Robinson Elementary School and Jung teaches science at Irving Middle School. Policky leads skilled and technical sciences classes at Northwest High School, and Cotton spent 24 years serving in several LPS buildings.
LPS Superintendent John Skretta said Cathey, Mickells, Jung, Policky and Cotton had encouraged hundreds of students during their distinguished careers. He said all five were admirable award recipients because of their work ethic and professionalism.
“When we think of the virtues that exemplify Nebraskans, there is no greater demonstration of the character, commitment, hard work and high integrity of Nebraskans than the teachers who we recognize here today,” Skretta said.
More than 500 people submitted written nominations in the categories of preschool through second grade, third through fifth grade, middle school, high school and retired teachers for this year’s event. The Lincoln Education Association, the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools and radio stations KFOR and KFRX joined LPS as co-sponsors of the annual celebration.
Grades Pre-K–2: Danielle Cathey
Cathey earned her Thank You Teacher honor for her willingness to help one LPS family. LPS parent Arodi enrolled her daughter, Amaia, at Adams Elementary after arriving in Lincoln early in the 2024-25 school year. Cathey’s bright personality erased all of Arodi’s nervousness when they first met.
“I was trying to be brave, but inside I was terrified,” Arodi said. “When we walked into the classroom, Ms. Cathey welcomed us with a big smile and a warm, confident energy that immediately made Amaia feel safe.”
Cathey soon became an essential ally for both Arodi and Amaia. She helped Amaia form new friendships and included her in every kindergarten activity. She also made sure that Amaia knew she was welcomed with open arms.
“Each small step forward was a victory, and in every one of those victories, I could see Ms. Cathey’s dedication and love for her students,” Arodi said. “By the end of the school year, Ms. Cathey gave Amaia a special award that said, ‘Dancing Queen,’ and my daughter was the happiest child in the world. That diploma meant much more than a fun title. It represented belonging, confidence and the feeling that she had a place in her new community.”
Cathey said it is a privilege to help children like Amaia at school. She has enjoyed welcoming everyone into the Adams community for the past 13 years.
“The truth is, Amaia and her friends teach me just as much as I teach them,” Cathey said. “They teach me patience, they teach me resilience and they teach me to slow down and celebrate the small victories.”
Arodi said she wanted Cathey to be recognized for supporting and leading Adams students with compassion and care.
“Thanks to her, Amaia experienced school as a safe and welcoming environment, and we as a family felt supported during one of the biggest transitions of our lives,” Arodi said. “We are deeply grateful to Ms. Cathey and to this community for helping our daughter grow, learn and thrive.”
Cathey said seeing Amaia again made her realize that teachers can make lasting impacts on their students.
“It was a beautiful reminder that what we do goes far beyond academics,” Cathey said. “It matters in the hearts of children.”
Grades 3–5: Sydney Mickells
LPS parent Allie nominated Mickells for the award for the care she has provided for her daughter for four years. She said Mickells was responsible for Evelyn’s growth in subjects like reading, math and writing during her Robinson career.
“I know without a doubt that Evelyn would not be where she is today without the kindhearted spirit and compassionate, consistent support of Ms. Mickells,” Allie said. “We are so grateful that we have had the gift of her support and love for Evelyn and our family for the last four years. We could never thank her enough.”
Evelyn’s family brought her to Robinson in second grade in hopes that the school’s new reading program would be helpful. Allie reached out to Mickells as soon as the academic year started and shared her daughter’s story. She soon realized that Mickells was a willing teammate in Evelyn’s dream of reading at grade level by the end of fifth grade.
“Ms. Mickells listened with sincere concern and compassion,” Allie said. “With a calm and reassuring tone, she assured me that she would do everything she could to help Evelyn reach her goal. I could feel it in my heart that day that she truly cared.”
Mickells said students like Evelyn are why she enjoys being in the education profession.
“Being a special education teacher is really such an honor and so special,” Mickells said. “You develop meaningful relationships with students and their families on such a deep level. You get a front row seat to witness their bumps, their breakthroughs and every step of success along the way. I get to be my students’ biggest cheerleader.”
Allie said Mickells has helped Evelyn find her love for reading, develop her love for school and find joy in life again. Evelyn is also now reading at grade level, which has given her the confidence she will carry with her for the rest of her life.
“I’m not sure how we will get along without her, yet I do know we will never forget her or the imprint she has left on all of our hearts,” Allie said. “She has helped change our family for the better. Ms. Mickells is not an ordinary teacher. She is extraordinary. From her warm, welcoming smile to her adorably joyful wardrobe, she is one of a kind. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.”
Mickells said she would always be in Evelyn’s corner as she moves through middle school, high school and beyond.
“To Evelyn and Allie, you’ve taught me how to think outside the box, how to be creative and the true power of love and encouragement and what that can do for a student,” Mickells said. “You’ve made me a better teacher and human being, and I don’t know what in the world I’m going to do without having you at school next year.”
Middle School: Brent Jung
Irving eighth grade student Izayha felt Jung’s wide range of leadership talents made him worthy of Thank You Teacher recognition. He said Jung’s compassionate and caring teaching style has helped many people improve their general quality of life.
“He connects with and builds long-lasting relationships with his students and co-workers, bringing light to many students’ days,” Izayha said. “His class is involving, positive, fun, but also a safe space for many people to go and learn. He creates an environment filled with creativity, laughter, inclusion, diversity, connection and knowledge.”
Izayha said he soaked in more than just science concepts while sitting in Jung’s classroom. Their daily conversations inspired him to expand his communication talents, try new notetaking strategies and feel more confident in all of his academic pursuits.
“Learning in his class was so much more than just that,” Izayha said. “It was an unforgettable and unique experience I wish I could go back and repeat on a daily basis.”
Jung said his goal is for all students to have welcoming experiences. He recognized that his calling was to be a teacher after first helping people in college chemistry classes and local sunglass businesses.
“Then I realized, ‘Huh, I guess I’ve been an educator my whole life,’” Jung said. “That’s when I changed my journey, changed my trajectory, and ended up where I am today.”
Jung said he was especially proud of Izayha’s growth over the past 18 months. Izayha has joined a herpetology club at Irving, gone out for wrestling and will study science, technology, engineering and math subjects in high school.
“He has become such a great young man, and it’s only the beginning,” Jung said.
Izayha said Jung has been a source of inspiration and motivation during his time at Irving. He said that would serve as a springboard for future success at LPS.
“He is one of the best teachers I have ever had throughout my learning career and a genuinely amazing person,” Izayha said. “The school’s goal is to educate, embrace and empower, which I believe no teacher I have ever met could’ve done better.”
High School: Jamie Policky
Northwest High School senior Grayson said Policky has transformed lives because of his willingness to listen, remember and care. He said Policky makes students want to succeed because of his mentorship talents and meaningful actions.
“He’s honest without being harsh, funny without being flippant and straightforward without ever making you feel small,” Grayson said. “He doesn’t hide behind buzzwords or vague encouragement; he tells you the truth, supports you and expects you to rise to the occasion.”
Grayson reacted with excitement when Policky began a SkillsUSA program at Northwest in his sophomore year. Policky guided Grayson and his friend Noah through their first experiences of building a robot and competing at state. Over the following 18 months, he raised money for the team, helped the Falcons obtain necessary construction materials and showed them what it means to be trustworthy and kind.
“He shows up because he genuinely loves teaching and guiding students,” Grayson said. “Even in small ways, he’s always there. His e-mail responses are faster than anyone I’ve ever seen because he never wants his students to feel stuck.”
Policky said his desire is to give students the academic, prosocial and communication skills they can use throughout their lives. He said Grayson and Noah are examples of how education can create a far-reaching ripple effect in the world.
“Standing here today, I realize that while the work is real, the reward is far greater than I ever imagined,” Policky said.
Policky said the award also helped him realize that his skilled and technical sciences lessons have been making a difference for a large number of Falcons.
“As teachers, we often wonder if our lessons are landing,” Policky said. “We wonder if amidst the new concepts, the countless practice attempts and the subsequent feedback, we are actually making an impact. But here, to learn that some of my best and brightest, Grayson and Noah, took the time out of their busy schedules to write letters of praise and support, I feel more thankful and appreciated than ever before.”
Grayson said he and many other members of the Class of 2026 will leave Northwest as better people for having known Policky.
“Mr. Policky didn’t just teach me engineering,” Grayson said. “He taught me what it looks like to show up for people, to lead without ego and to care deeply without expecting anything in return. He has shaped who I am more than he probably realizes, and I know I’m not the only student who can say that. If Nebraska is looking to recognize a teacher who changes lives simply by being who they are, Mr. Policky is that teacher.”
Retired Teacher: Denise Cotton
Former student Carson Snow said Cotton impacted the lives of countless LPS students during her time leading music classes. She served as a part-time piano accompanist at Lefler Middle School before teaching music for four years at Humann Elementary School. She then became the choir teacher and department chair at Southwest High School until 2021.
Cotton said she has enjoyed every minute of a career spanning more than five decades in towns across the Midwest. She began working at LPS in 1999 and has remained a strong supporter of the school district ever since. She returned to the classroom at both Lincoln High and East High School after a brief stay in retirement.
“When I first began this teaching journey 50 years ago, giving piano lessons while I was still in high school – it’s been a little over 50 years ago – I don’t think I understood that teaching is not a career. It’s a calling,” Cotton said. “And the beautiful thing about a calling is that it does not let go of you even when you try to go a different path or when you try to retire.”
Snow said Cotton’s outgoing personality made a difference for many Silver Hawks.
“Her infectious enthusiasm for music made her both a great teacher and a wonderful human being,” Snow said. “You could not help but love music while in her classroom. You could always count on class being a fun time, even if you were having the worst day ever. You could have failed the most important test of your life, and she would have a way to make you smile.”
Snow said Cotton used music as a vehicle to pass along important life lessons to students. She taught them the importance of work ethic, determination and drive, and she sprinkled in messages about perseverance and goal setting that resonated with everyone in class.
“She was our music teacher, so of course she pushed us to do our best,” Snow said. “She also pushed and reminded us, as young adults, that we were the future. She encouraged every student to have the best grades possible by offering help whenever she could. She made a difference in every student’s life.”
Cotton said she was grateful for the invitation to the Thank You Teacher breakfast. She has been especially proud to watch Snow enter the teaching profession himself. He now leads special education classes at Huntington Elementary School and Mickle Middle School.
“Once again, I was reminded that education weaves generations together in the most beautiful way,” Cotton said.
Snow said he became a teacher specifically because of Cotton’s mentorship. He said it was an honor to watch Cotton receive applause for her lifetime of important work.
“All I can hope for is that I am able to help students as much as she helped all of hers,” Snow said. “She loved teaching us music, but we all knew the real reason she taught was to help struggling students find their path and see a future.”
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Photos from the 2026 Thank You Teacher Celebration
Teacher Recognition Day is Nebraska’s way of saying “thank you” to its more than 23,000 teachers. It is an opportunity for a public affirmation of the teacher in everyone’s life, the person who made a positive difference.
Nebraska Teacher Recognition Day allows everyone a chance to pay tribute to a teacher whose efforts may have gone beyond the basic transfer of information normally associated with the job. It encourages people to honor a favorite teacher – from the present or the past.
Nebraska Teacher Recognition Day began in 1983. It is celebrated the first Tuesday in March to correspond with National Teacher Day, as declared by Congress in 1953.
The “Thank You Teacher” contest is designed to recognize a few of the many outstanding teachers in Nebraska.
Program
Welcome
Jill St. James
Connoisseur Media
Speakers
John Skretta
Superintendent
Lincoln Public Schools
Jim Pillen
Governor of Nebraska
Natalia Wiita
President
Foundation for LPS
Awards Presentation
John Skretta and Jill St. James
Letters and Comments
Nominators and Teachers
Closing Remarks
Jill St. James
The Letters
Danielle Cathey
School
Adams Elementary
Nominated By
Arodí Díaz Rocha and her daughter Amaia
My name is Arodí Monserrat Díaz Rocha, and I would like to nominate Ms. Danielle Cathey from Adams Elementary School for the Thank You Teacher contest in the preschool–grade 2 category.
My daughter, Amaia Monserrat Navarro Díaz, arrived in Lincoln from San Luis Potosí, Mexico, without speaking English. She had completed kindergarten in Mexico, and when we moved to Nebraska, she joined Adams Elementary one month after the school year had already started. We had only been in Lincoln for two weeks, and I still remember that first morning so clearly. It was October, and I felt overwhelmed and nervous. We arrived with almost nothing, and we were told the school would provide the materials she needed. I was trying to be brave, but inside I was terrified. When we walked into the classroom, Ms. Cathey welcomed us with a big smile and a warm, confident energy that immediately made Amaia feel safe. That day she was dressed in a fun rocker style because of a school event, and that small detail—combined with her kindness—made the moment feel joyful instead of frightening. I said goodbye with a knot in my throat, and Ms. Cathey gently took Amaia’s hand and walked her into the classroom. As soon as I stepped out, I couldn’t hold back my tears. I felt confused and alone, wondering if bringing my little girl into this new world—with a new language, new rules, and no support network—had been the right decision.
Very soon, Ms. Cathey became an essential ally for our family. I watched her truly make an effort to communicate with Amaia, even using her phone to translate so Amaia could understand and feel included. She consistently made her feel secure, cared for, and capable. Within the very first week, Amaia already felt comfortable going to school, and little by little she began to connect with her classmates and overcome the language barrier. Each small step forward was a victory, and in every one of those victories, I could see Ms. Cathey’s dedication and love for her students. By the end of the school year, Ms. Cathey gave Amaia a special award that said “Dancing Queen,” and my daughter was the happiest child in the world. That diploma meant much more than a fun title—it represented belonging, confidence, and the feeling that she had a place in her new community.
I hope Ms. Cathey receives recognition for being the kind of teacher who truly meets every child where they are. She adapts, supports, and leads with compassion. For immigrant children like my daughter—who are doing their best to adjust and succeed—teachers like Ms. Cathey make all the difference. Thanks to her, Amaia experienced school as a safe and welcoming environment, and we as a family felt supported during one of the biggest transitions of our lives. We are deeply grateful to Ms. Cathey and to this community for helping our daughter grow, learn, and thrive.
Sydney Mickells
School
Robinson Elementary School
Nominated By
Allie Wiltshire and her daughter Evelyn
My daughter Evelyn is a 5th grade student at Robinson Elementary. Robinson is the best school we could have ever chosen for both of our daughters to attend. This year is Evelyn’s 4th and final year attending the school. Our oldest daughter Ella also attended Robinson for her 5th grade year. She was one of the students in the first ever 5th grade graduating class.
Ella and Evelyn have had some of the most dedicated, compassionate, and devoted teachers our family has ever met during their time at Robinson. Our family will always hold a special place in our hearts for each one of them. The teacher who has forever changed our lives and who I am nominating for this award is Ms. Sydney Mickells.
Evelyn has been working with Ms. Mickells in the areas of reading, math, and writing to support her SLD since transferring to Robinson in 2nd grade. We chose to transfer Evelyn to Robinson in hopes that the new reading program the school was piloting would help with her reading skills.
I reached out to Ms. Mickells as soon as the school year started, full of fear, uncertainty, and anxiety. I was really hoping for a fresh start for Evelyn. I wanted Ms. Mickells and Evelyn’s homeroom teacher to hear all about her good qualities, before they had a chance to see her any other way. It had become very easy to label Evelyn’s learning difficulties as behavioral outbursts. A choice she was making to be difficult in the classroom.
Evelyn hated school, she hated reading and math. She hated herself. At the start of 2nd grade, she was still reading at a kindergarten level.
She would cry almost every night, ask “why me”, and tell me she didn’t belong at school.
That she didn’t understand and couldn’t learn like everyone else could. She would shut down in class, put her head down on the table, and give up before any effort had been given when things felt unbearably difficult. She was done getting the wrong answer even though she was trying her best. She had completely given up. My heart was broken.
I sat in the meeting with Ms. Mickells, tears steaming down my face. I told her everything Evelyn had been through. What we learned, what we were still trying to figure out, and what our biggest goal was. I had one very robust goal for Evelyn. To read at grade level by the end of 5th grade.
Ms. Mickells listened with sincere concern and compassion. With a calm and reassuring tone, she assured me that she would do everything she could to help Evelyn reach her goal. I could feel it in my heart that day that she truly cared. It was the first time since Evelyn had started school that I felt heard. It was the first time I felt hope. When I left my first meeting with Ms. Mickells, I knew that everything would be ok.
Evelyn would have everything she would need with Ms. Mickells.
Over the last four years, Evelyn has continued to struggle here and there. Certain times more often than others. When Evelyn has felt frustrated, inadequate, or felt like shutting down, Ms. Mickells has been her “go to person”. On days when emotions were especially high, Ms. Mickells was often the only person who could provide the support needed for Evelyn to calm down and get back on track. She has always felt safe to be herself with Ms. Mickells., free from feelings of judgement and labels.
Ms. Mickells has always chosen to see that Evelyn is struggling with learning instead of labeling her emotions as a behavioral issue.
Ms. Mickells has been there for Evelyn and for myself in some of our most difficult times. She has seen both of us broken, and hopeless. She has guided us both through those times. She has dedicated countless hours to IEP meetings, IEP plans, and support services to help Evelyn overcome her biggest obstacles. More than one IEP meeting had to adjourn, I had spent too much time crying out my concerns. The IEP team never made me feel rushed, I always got the time I needed.
She has helped Evelyn find her love for reading, develop her love for school and find joy in life again. Best of all, she has helped Evelyn reach her grade level reading goal! Something I wasn’t sure would be possible.
It may sound silly to hear that something as simple as my child learning to read could make such a profound impact on our entire family. Emotional outbursts had become the daily norm in our household. Family life felt chaotic and unstable. Evelyn has learned self regulation techniques from Ms. Mickells that our family continues to benefit from using as helpful tools for all of us. She is learning that she can overcome adversity. That her disability doesn’t define her, that it’s not an excuse for lack of effort. She can, and she will.
The academic and emotional growth that Evelyn has gained in the last four years is astounding. She has earned student of the month more than once, and multiple positive office referral Rockin’ Raptor Awards. Hearing the pride in her voice when she makes that positive phone call home with Mr. V is something I will never forget. Because of the staff at Robinson, Evelyn has learned that everyone has a bad day, but a bad day doesn’t make you a bad kid.
I know without a doubt that Evelyn would not be where she is today without the kindhearted spirit and compassionate, consistent support of Ms. Mickells. We are so grateful that we have had the gift of her support and love for Evelyn and our family for the last four years. We could never thank her enough. I’m not sure how we will get along without her yet, I do know we will never forget her or the imprint she has left on all of our hearts. She has helped change our family for the better.
Ms. Mickells is not an ordinary teacher, she is extraordinary. From her warm, welcoming smile to her adorably joyful wardrobe, she is one of a kind. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.
Brent Jung
School
Irving Middle School
Nominated By
Izayha Anderson
Mr. Jung is a teacher a student could never forget, he forges futures and careers for many years to come. He’s helped me improve and work on my work ethic, confidence, communication, note taking, and general quality of life. He connects with and builds long lasting relationships with his students and co-workers, bringing light to many student’s days. His class is involving, positive, fun, but also a safe space for many people to go and learn. He creates an environment filled with creativity, laughter, inclusion, diversity, connection, and knowledge.
I failed the first test I ever took in his class, almost everyone did. Not because it was necessarily hard but because we hadn’t understood the concept. It was purposeful, a test he would use to determine how we would grow and learn. He pushed students to learn not only from him but also the things around ourselves, new note taking methods explored through him, all simple, but effective. He helped us not only build off of a lesson but off of each other, our test scores improved not through comparison, but determination. He pushed us to work harder,together, and in unity.
A major component of the type of environment he promotes and creates within the classroom is because of the relationships he creates. Specific examples from my personal experiences with him aren’t just sentence starters but deeper daily conversations that create deep connections. I was going through a very rough time during seventh grade and his class was one of the only things I looked forward to. He would ask how my day was, making sure I ate properly, and give little notes of advice or jokes to make the weight on my shoulders lighter. He always cared for my genuine happiness and well being, creating a safe space where I could talk to others. Another example is how I wouldn’t talk as much or ask questions when I needed help,he always knew and came to me long before I even got the confidence to, letting me grow, building communication and confidence. He was always open to suggestions and new ways to learn from students even while teaching them things.
Learning in his class was so much more than just that. It was an unforgettable and unique experience I wish I could go back and repeat, on a daily basis. It was more than just a safe space, a second home, and a place to feel welcome. There were so many times where I would revisit and just sit there, watching the lesson or talking to him. Me and several of my friends go back almost on a daily basis just to experience his class again. It’s something in my life I don’t believe I could ever forget.
To summarize all I’ve previously stated. Mr.Jung’s class was a unique and extremely productive,inclusive, and safe space that I will never forget. A unique experience that will continue to forge my future interactions. His class taught me that there are other ways to be kind, other ways to learn, and an infinite amount of possibilities when it comes to learning. It’s the reason I love science. Because of him I have joined a Herpetology club he sponsors. Continuing to learn under him has been more than a gift and something I think every student should cherish if they get the opportunity. He is one of the best teachers I have ever had throughout my learning career and a genuinely amazing person. The school’s goal is to Educate,Embrace, and Empower which I believe no teacher I have ever met could’ve done better.
Jamie Policky
School
Northwest High School
Nominated By
Grayson Ahl
Some teachers are good at their jobs. A few go above and beyond. Mr. Policky is someone entirely different. He is the best teacher I have ever had, and it’s not even close—I am far from the only student who feels that way.
I met Mr. Policky freshman year in REM 1, sitting in the front row next to my best friend, Noah. That class was a blast, but more importantly, it introduced me to who Mr. Policky really is. He’s honest without being harsh, funny without being flippant, and straightforward without ever making you feel small. He doesn’t hide behind buzzwords or vague encouragement; he tells you the truth, supports you, and expects you to rise to the occasion. He strikes a perfect balance: he isn’t overly stern, but he isn’t someone you can walk over, either. Over time, he stops feeling like a “teacher” and starts feeling like a mentor—someone you respect too much to cut corners around.
That respect is powerful. I’ve seen students who normally do nothing all day get their work done on time in his class—not because they fear him, but because he makes them want to succeed.
Sophomore year, Mr. Policky started our school’s SkillsUSA program completely on his own. It became the most meaningful experience of my high school career. Noah and I spent countless hours working on our first robot—affectionately named “Trash Bucket”—and, honestly, it barely worked. But Mr. Policky believed in us anyway. He helped us get to state, handled sponsorships, and organized the financing for food and travel, making it possible for us to compete at no cost. Those competitions weren’t just events; they were celebrations of hard work, and he made them accessible to everyone.
Junior year, I wanted to win. That meant long hours, constant troubleshooting, and real commitment—and Mr. Policky matched us every step of the way. He stayed after school at least two days a week, every single week, often late into the evening. That year, we won city and placed third at state. I have zero doubt that without him—and without him specifically—that would not have happened.
When we needed parts, even expensive ones like a pneumatic system, he fought to get them. When our VEX arena on the floor became unsafe and difficult to use, he didn’t wait for permission. He thrifted tables, screws, drills, and a jigsaw, and we built a massive elevated arena from scratch. There was no curriculum and no worksheet; just a plan, amazing leadership, and trust in his students. That platform is still in use today.
Late in my junior year, Mr. Policky had his first child. Anyone would expect him to step back—and he did briefly—but even through the exhaustion of sleepless nights, he returned with the same energy, care, and dedication. He never made his commitment feel like a burden. He shows up because he genuinely loves teaching and guiding students. Even in small ways, he’s always there; his email responses are faster than anyone I’ve ever seen because he never wants his students to feel stuck.
Now in our senior year, Noah and I are aiming for gold. Mr. Policky wants it just as badly—not for himself, but for us. He has handled funding, fought for access to concessions, and spent his own time crafting wooden cutting boards and coasters to raise money for the team. No one pays him for this. He does it because he believes in us.
But what makes Mr. Policky truly special goes beyond robotics, awards, or after-school hours. He’s someone you can talk to about anything without fear of judgment. He’ll joke with you, but never at your expense. He listens, he remembers, and he cares.
I’ve never had a father. I was born through IVF, my grandfather passed away when I was young, and the rest of my family is distant. For a long time, I didn’t have a father figure in my life. Somehow, in a classroom I never expected, I found one.
Mr. Policky didn’t just teach me engineering. He taught me what it looks like to show up for people, to lead without ego, and to care deeply without expecting anything in return. He has shaped who I am more than he probably realizes—and I know I’m not the only student who can say that. If Nebraska is looking to recognize a teacher who changes lives simply by being who they are, Mr. Policky is that teacher.
Denise Cotton
School
Retired
Nominated By
Carson Snow
Mrs. Cotton was a teacher who impacted many students’ lives. Her infectious enthusiasm for music made her both a great teacher and a wonderful human being. You could not help but love music while in her classroom. You could always count on class being a fun time, even if you were having the worst day ever. You could have failed the most important test of your life, and she would have found a way to make you smile. Some students would say she pushed us too hard to learn our music; however, that was her job. She was our music teacher, so of course she pushed us to do our best. She also pushed and reminded us, as young adults, that we were the future. She encouraged every student to have the best grades possible by offering help whenever she could. She made a difference in every student’s life.
She made such an impact on me that I followed in her path and became a teacher. I never thought I would be a teacher; it was a career path I never contemplated. I had no clue what I wanted to do. I just knew I wanted to help others and make a difference in their lives. As graduation came around and Mrs. Cotton talked to our class about our futures, I realized how much of a difference she had made in our lives. I knew I wanted to have the same impact on students that she did. It is because of Mrs. Cotton that I am standing in front of students every day. All I can hope for is that I am able to help students as much as she helped all of hers. She loved teaching us music, but we all knew the real reason she taught was to help struggling students find their path and see a future.
