Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of our district. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Josh Yoakam, Lansing Middle School Gifted Facilitator
Question: How long have you worked in Lansing USD469?
Answer: This is my 7th year at LMS, I worked for one year at LES prior to that.
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: I am from the Lansing/Leavenworth area. I grew up here and graduated from Lansing High School. My family resides in Lansing and my kids attend/attended Lansing Schools. Teaching is a second career for me. I used to work in public health. My role at Lansing Middle School is to provide differentiated instruction for identified students.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: I enjoy the opportunity to help kids move from a student to a learner mindset. The learner is an engaged participant in their own education. A learner moves beyond the expected. The learner asks the next question. They actively seek to add depth and breadth to their own understanding. When a student is able to make this switch the possibilities become limitless.
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: Spending time with my family, walking our greyhounds, and working out. I enjoy reading and listening to media that will expand my knowledge base, challenge my thinking, help me improve my instruction and improve school operations.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I smoke BBQ. I took a class with my father-in-law many years ago. I have my own BBQ rub mix.
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: The thing that I've enjoyed the most are the updates I've received from former students. Middle school is a critical time for students to develop ownership of their actions, attitude, and effort. Having students reach out to share their successes in gratifying.
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: Don't limit your possibilities. You don't know with any degree of certainty what career you will eventually pursue. Try your hardest now. Push yourself outside your comfort zone. Embrace struggle when it occurs and celebrate successes along the way.