Staff Spotlight: Melanie McWilliams - second grade teacher at Cavett Elementary School

May 28, 2026

Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Melanie McWilliams, second grade teacher at Cavett Elementary School.

“Mrs. McWilliams is an exceptional teacher who knows the value of truly knowing her students. When we moved to Lincoln, my son was in second grade and had moved to yet another school. I told Mrs. McWilliams all I cared about was to make him feel safe, encourage him to make mistakes and be creative and help him make friends. She did just that. I saw the light come back into my child! She has also taught my daughter this year and loves her creative, spunky spirit! She truly knows her students and supports them in and out of the classroom.” - J.J. Bennett, sixth grade teacher at Moore Middle School and parent of Cavett students

How long have you worked for LPS?
I have worked for LPS for 20 years. 

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
I went to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. All of my teaching experiences were through LPS, and I really enjoyed my time in all of the different buildings I had been in. My sister was a teacher in Arizona at the time, and when talking with her about the experiences she had, I realized that LPS had many different resources and opportunities that other districts and states didn't have. 

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
My favorite part of working here is the relationships I have made. From the people I work with on a daily basis to some of my favorite people I work with at the district! I am so lucky to have collaborated with some of the BEST educators out there. I also LOVE my students and their families. It is so fun to build relationships and get to know different families throughout my years of teaching. The people are what make my job the best - coworkers, parents and most importantly, the students. The most rewarding part of my job is to see the growth that students have made, not only throughout the year but even throughout the many years I have known them! They make me so proud!

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

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
I grew up in York, Neb., and attended York Public Schools.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2005. While I was teaching, I went back to school to get my master's degree from Concordia University, Nebraska. I also completed the Primarily Math program through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

I started my career off as a substitute. I went on to teach reading recovery and intervention for the next two years (Hartley, West Lincoln, Prescott and Elliott). Then, I taught first grade at Elliott Elementary School for 13 years. In 2022, I went to Cavett to teach second grade and have been here ever since.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
I love how Lincoln is a larger community than where I grew up, but it isn't too big! I love that I can go to different places and see people that I know, but I also love how it is big enough that not everyone knows me! I love the opportunities that Lincoln has for families and kids. There is always something for everyone!

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?
“The Giving Tree.” I actually think my first grade teacher (mentioned below) was the first one to read it to me, and I just really liked the story. It has so many different layers and points of view, which at the time I didn't think much about :)

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
Becky Samuelson (Niewedde), my first grade teacher. She was loving, kind and made learning fun, and that is why I am a teacher today! 

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

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