Mary Koens Vavala

English  ·  English teacher and English liaison

Room
313

Phone
402-436-1220

Email
mkoens@lps.org

Mary Koens Vavala

English  ·  English teacher and English liaison

Additional Teacher and Classroom Information may be viewed by logging into Parent/StudentVue

Classroom Information
About Me

Period 1:  English 7D

Period 2:  English 7

Period 3:  SKILLS

Period 4:  English 7

Period 5:  English 7

Period 6:  PLAN

Period 7:  English 7

I was born and raised in South Dakota and always loved school.  I wanted to be a teacher ever since 2nd grade.  Upon graduation from high school, I came to Lincoln to attend college at UNL.  I made my home here and was grateful to be hired by Lincoln Public Schools after receiving my bachelor's degree in 1994.

I am married and have two children.  My husband teaches plant science and assists in on-line education at UNL.  Both of my children are now enrolled in the same high school, so that makes life a little easier!  We are kept busy with our careers and our children's activities.

I do love to travel and be outdoors in nature.  Two of my more recent trips have been to Japan and Washington D.C. (both for school trips).  I have also been to Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Mexico.  I also love to read and am interested in art, interior decorating, and gardening.

Professional Experience

After receiving my Bachelor of Science in 7-12 English and Reading Education from UNL in 1994, I was hired at Pound Middle School, where I taught reading, 7 English, 7D English, ASSET, and Discover Writing.  I also served as a lunch supervisor and coached track.  After completing two years at Pound, I interviewed for Lux Middle School and Scott Middle School.  I was hired at both schools and chose Lux, where I have been ever since, putting me twenty -plus years in to this profession.  During my time at Lux, I have taught 7 English, 7D English, SKILLS, and Reading Ideas.  I have served as Team Leader and coached basketball and track.  I am currently also serving as the IAQ liaison and share the English liaison position.