Southwest High social studies teacher Leslie Mann honored with Gildersleeve Stoddard Stone Award

The Lincoln Board of Education on June 24 congratulated Leslie Mann, a social studies teacher at Southwest High School, for receiving the Gildersleeve Stoddard Stone Award from the Geographic Educators of Nebraska.

Marilyn (presenter) moved a resolution honoring Mann, noting her work to "inspire a love of geography among students" and her innovative classroom practices. The resolution was signed by Board President Bob Rahner and Interim Superintendent John Screda, and the board approved the motion by roll call.

Mann accepted the honor at the meeting and thanked colleagues and family. She credited district staff who supported her work, including district social studies curriculum specialist Jackie Kellison, her principal John Mattson and department chair Alex Baugh. Mann said she started teaching AP human geography in fall 2020 and described geography as "so much more than just maps," telling the board it "helps students connect the past to the present and understand how geographical factors have shaped human societies."

Why it matters: the award recognizes an individual teacher's contribution to geography education in Nebraska; the board formally acknowledged the honor and celebrated classroom impact.

Board action: a board member moved and a second was recorded; the board then approved the resolution by roll call. No policy or budgetary action was tied to the item.

Quotes (attributed to meeting speakers): "It is humbling to be included in a long line of amazing LPS teachers who are also recipients of this award," Leslie Mann said. "Geography is so much more than just maps."

Ending: The board's recognition was ceremonial; Mann will continue teaching at Southwest High School where staff said she will begin her 18th year this fall.