Curiosity Meets Confidence
Meet Mrs. Agena
First and second grade are big years for growing minds. With a teacher like Mrs. Agena—someone who knows how to challenge, encourage, and cheer them on—young learners are in great hands for a bright future. Now preparing for her sixth year in education, Mrs. Agena currently teaches second grade at Maxey Elementary, a place she describes as “a truly special school filled with support, collaboration, and heart.”
A Fearless Start
Mrs. Agena’s teaching journey began in an incredibly challenging moment: the height of the pandemic.
“My first year teaching was unlike anything I could have imagined,” she recalls. “At Lincoln Public Schools, we used a hybrid format, with some students attending in person and others joining via Zoom. We wore masks, maintained physical distance, and had to find creative ways to build relationships without the high fives. It was tough, but it taught me so much—especially about flexibility, creativity, and how essential human connection is in a classroom.
New School, New Grade
After three years of teaching first grade at Arnold Elementary, Mrs. Agena transitioned to second grade at Maxey, where she has found her stride—but she still loves both grades.
“First and second graders are so curious and full of energy. They’re starting to develop their own ideas about the world, and I feel lucky to help guide them during such an important stage.”
Community Connections
Mrs. Agena speaks passionately about the supportive community she’s found at Maxey Elementary—a place, she says, “where everyone feels valued.”
“The administration is incredibly supportive, and the staff is made up of dedicated, collaborative teachers,” she says. “We really work together to do what’s best for kids. Our families are also very engaged, and that makes such a difference. The PTO is amazing. They organize fun family events and always find ways to show appreciation for the staff.
Partnering with Parents
Mrs. Agena believes strong partnerships between home and school are essential to student success.
“Parents can really make a difference by staying involved and keeping open communication with teachers,” she says. “Encouraging reading at home, helping with homework, coming to school events, or even just checking in shows students that everyone is on their team. When parents show respect and support for what’s happening in the classroom, it helps create an encouraging, united environment where kids thrive.”
Reading Reimagined
One of the most noticeable shifts in education since Mrs. Agena began her career has been the way schools approach reading instruction, with a greater focus on interdisciplinary learning.
“There’s been a big shift in how we teach reading,” she explains. “Our curriculum now puts a much stronger focus on decoding skills and phonemic awareness, which are essential building blocks. But we’re also working to build students’ background knowledge, vocabulary, and comprehension skills by diving into rich content in subjects like science, history, and social studies. It’s really powerful to see how these elements come together to support confident, capable readers.”
As Mrs. Agena looks ahead to a new school year, her passion for education remains clear:
“Teaching has challenged me in ways I never expected and shaped me in ways I’m so grateful for,” she says. “No two days are the same, but every day is a chance to help a child feel seen, supported, and excited to learn. And that’s a gift I never take for granted.”
Want to Help Your Kiddo’s School?
Join the PTO, offer to volunteer during special events, or ask your child’s teacher what supplies are most needed. Even small gestures—like sending snacks, organizing a carpool, or writing a thank-you note—can go a long way in supporting your school community. Every bit helps!