District 1

Hi, I’m Liz Davids! Our education system is the foundation of our economy, society, and the bedrock of our Constitutional Republic. In Nebraska, education holds the key to our children’s dreams and the prosperity of our great state. It has the power to pave the way for our families and students to realize their visions and uphold their dignity.

As a proud Husker alumna with a degree and awards in Piano Performance, I wholeheartedly believe in the value of the arts in our education systems and the crucial role of high academic standards in promoting excellence in our society.

But it's not just about my academic background; I'm a dedicated mom who has personally homeschooled all five of our incredible children. I know what it's like to be deeply involved in learning at every age, and I am resolute in my belief that every child is unique and deserving of an education that reflects his or her individuality. As the mother of a neurodivergent child, I've experienced the importance of a parent's role in advocating for their children. Nobody understands our kids like we do.

During the pandemic, I saw a pressing need for parents who work outside the home to have support in their children's education. That's why I opened a micro school, a venture that provided invaluable insights into the diverse needs of every learner and highlighted the importance of adaptability.

And my commitment goes beyond my own family. I'm a dedicated weekly volunteer at our local elementary school, where I've organized fundraisers for teacher supplies and led school ground cleanups. I've also been at the forefront of open forums that address critical education issues. In 2021, I founded "Empower Nebraska," an organization dedicated to civic education and community service.

I firmly believe that the primary role of State Board leadership is to support our students and teachers, prioritizing them and ensuring that curriculum is transparent and educational systems remain accountable to the public.

In a time when the Lincoln metropolitan area is welcoming many refugees, each bringing different perspectives, history, and ideas, I see these contributions as vital to the tapestry of learning. I'm an intentional listener and a creative problem solver with an unwavering advocacy for transparency. I will continue to foster genuine conversations about enhancing student achievement, engaging parents in collaborative approaches, facilitating the needs of our teachers, and promoting responsible stewardship of taxpayer funding.

As your representative on the Nebraska State Board of Education, I will place Nebraska families and students at the forefront of decision-making, help educate parents, state, and local leaders about the importance of expanding educational opportunities and pathways, advocate for policies that bring tangible reforms to our education system, and work towards achieving greater outcomes for the future of Nebraska.

My commitment is to promote a public education system that educates and uplifts the next generation of Nebraskans where they can thrive, where dreams are nurtured, and our local communities prosper. Together, let's elevate education and make it work for every student, family, and community.

District 2

Born and raised in South Africa, Dr. Linda Vermooten brings a rich cultural background and a deep understanding of diverse perspectives to her candidacy. With a range of educational achievements, including degrees in counseling and psychology, Linda has developed a comprehensive understanding of the complex needs of individuals, families, and communities.

With over twenty-five years of experience in the mental health field, she has witnessed firsthand the importance of addressing mental health and emotional well-being within the educational system. As a professor and department chair of a master's program in clinical mental health, Linda has mentored and inspired future mental health professionals, emphasizing the role of well-being in the educational experience.

Linda's passion for education extends beyond the classroom. She firmly stands for life and is dedicated to protecting the innocence of children. She recognizes that education plays a vital role in shaping their future, and seeks to bring her wealth of experience, deep-rooted values, and commitment to quality education to the Nebraska State Board of Education. With her diverse background, unwavering dedication, and compassionate approach, Linda aims to champion the needs of students, parents, and educators, creating an educational environment that prioritizes excellence and the holistic well-being of Nebraska's young minds.

District 3

Lisa is a wife, mother, and teacher. She has been an educator for more than 20 years. Lisa has been a collegiate instructor and holds two Master's degrees in Curriculum & Instruction, the other in Educational Urban Leadership.

Over the past two decades, Lisa has developed differentiated instruction strategies to support students of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Her experience designing engaging learning experiences has empowered educators and enhanced math, literacy, and ELL curricula for students from all walks of life.

Lisa is determined to restore excellence in education, support our parents and teachers, and redirect tax dollars towards essential priorities. She will fight for fiscal responsibility, local control, preserving traditional values, and prioritize education over indoctrination.

District 4

Stacy Matula boasts a wealth of experience and expertise shaped by a diverse background. A Honolulu, Hawaii native and proud Omaha resident, Stacy's roots trace back to a family with a strong military legacy—her father proudly served as a Marine. With over 30 years in finance and administration, Stacy possesses a unique skill set that aptly prepares her for the fiduciary responsibilities of the State Board of Education.

Throughout her career, Stacy has held leadership positions in both small businesses and multi-million dollar companies, including Nordam, a prominent aerospace entity. Her tenure there equipped her with a world-class business operations education, where she excelled in managing global trade compliance. Further demonstrating her commitment to excellence, Stacy earned Lean and Six Sigma process improvement certifications, showcasing her ability to optimize resources, minimize waste, and drive development.

Stacy's dedication extends beyond her professional endeavors to her faith, family, and community. As a mother of three adult children, grandmother to four grandchildren (including two bonus grandchildren), and great-grandmother to two, she holds these familial connections dear. Actively engaged in her community, Stacy has assumed various leadership roles at Lord of Hosts church in Omaha, reflecting her commitment to service.

A graduate of Omaha’s Harry A. Burke High School, Stacy’s educational journey includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Family Services from Xplore Nations Bible College, a degree in Medical Office Administration from Dickinson Business School, and a Certificate in Sign Language from Tulsa Community College.

In her candidacy for the Nebraska State Board of Education, Stacy Matula pledges to be an attentive steward of taxpayer dollars, advocating for responsible spending, fiscal transparency, and accountability. Her collaborative approach aims to forge strong community partnerships among parents, teachers, and local stakeholders, fostering educational betterment in District 4.