Shannon Koenig’s love for teaching stems from growing up in a family of educators and realizing she had a passion for working with kids. As a young girl, the Adams native knew she would grow up to become a teacher.

John Seymour took a different path. He always had a mind and passion for business yet he wasn’t sure where this interest would lead. The North Bend Central graduate couldn’t see a lifelong career in the business world until his advisor suggested teaching. John fell in love with teaching and never looked back. 

Flash forward to today the couple, who met their freshman year at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, came on our radar when we saw their beautiful engagement photos on social media.

The engaged educators will be married this May and they couldn’t be more excited – neither can we!

Now, Shannon is in her third year as a 5th-grade Reading and Writing teacher at Norris Intermediate. Her fiancé brought his business acumen to Lincoln East High School where he has taught Business and Technology for two years. His favorite class to teach: ​‘Take Charge’ where he prepares his students for life after high school.

Photo Credit: Sam Areman Photography

What’s one thing your partner’s students always say about him/​her?

Shannon: John’s students would say that he has high expectations for them because he wants them to be successful. He would drop anything for them and make himself available to meet their needs.

John: Shannon’s students would say that she is empathetic and kind. She celebrates their successes with them and believes in them.

Photo Credit: Sam Areman Photography

What do you love most about your schools?

S&J: We both love the public schools we work at because of the educators we get to work alongside, and the amazing kids we get to serve every day. There is something really special about walking into work each morning and being surrounded by people who truly want to make a difference.

Why is public education important to you?

S&J: Because ALL means ALL. We feel honored to serve kids of so many different races, genders, abilities, backgrounds; and a wide range of socioeconomic status.

Public education gives every child an equal opportunity to make something of their life — regardless of where they come from or what adversities they have faced. Every student has the chance to thrive both academically and through other extracurricular programs that public schools have to offer.