LPS counseling program shines at the state level

December 18, 2025

Lincoln Public Schools school counselors Ann Spotanski and Kate Pittack moved on as Nebraska Counselor of the Year finalists and were at the top of their grade levels at the Nebraska School Counselor Association (NSCA) Annual Awards Luncheon.

“This honor represents the strength of the LPS community of counselors,” Spotanski said. “This honor means the daily work we do - planning whole group and small group lessons, meeting with students and families, collaborating with teachers and staff - makes a positive impact in the school community.”

Spotanski is a school counselor at Clinton Elementary School and Pittack serves Scott Middle School. For the second consecutive year, LPS accounted for six of the state’s 12 School Counselor of the Year finalists. Each level has three finalists, and this year’s elementary and middle school winners are both from LPS.

“It truly is a reflection of the incredible work of the Scott Middle School counseling team,” Pittack said. “As counselors, we get to see a unique side of students that is separate from the classroom and are able to help them set goals and celebrate those successes. One of my greatest joys is watching students grow up and accomplish things that they couldn't have ever imagined.”

LPS School Counseling Supervisor Lori Hemmett said the nominations were scored using a standardized rubric from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), which shows LPS is excelling at the state level as its work continues to align with the ASCA national and state standards.

“This is a huge accomplishment as it demonstrates that others are beginning to understand and value the role and importance of school counselors,” Hemmett said. “Because of these outstanding school counselors, students are getting skills they need for life and school, and those that need more support are able to be identified through various data points, which allows for more efficient and student-centered use of all support personnel and resources.”

Both finalists said they hope the recognition highlights the essential role school counselors play every day.

“I hope this recognition highlights the important and essential work of school counselors and ensures that every LPS school continues forward with a counselor who supports students academically, socially and emotionally,” Pittack said. “We show up every day to advocate for what is best for students and to make sure every student and every educator feels supported and valued.”

Spotanski said she hopes the honor also brings attention to the broader impact school counselors have across all buildings.

“School counselors are part of a team that works to build systems that set all students up for success,” Spotanski said. “We work to ensure students and families have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”

Pittack added that she hopes families feel heard and valued.

“I want my students to know that I am in their corner and ready to advocate for them in any way,” she said.

Want to learn more about school counseling at Lincoln Public Schools? Visit our website at home.lps.org/counseling to get more information. 

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