Ms. Crystal Burgess began teaching first grade at Trinity Lutheran School in Fall of 2022 after teaching fourth grade at Trinity for two years (Fall 2015 - Spring 2017) and third grade at Trinity for five years (Fall 2017-Spring 2022). She has 27 total years of experience from teaching at various schools.

Ms. Burgess earned her Masters of Literacy Degree from Concordia University, Nebraska, in 2024. She also holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Concordia and is a member of the Nebraska State Literacy Association.

Ms. Burgess works to keep learning fun and engaging saying, “Whenever I see a student of mine have that ‘lightbulb moment,’ it is precious. I love seeing their smiles everyday.”

Ms. Burgess puts a special emphasis on hands-on learning opportunities – from allowing students to use doctor tools when learning about human anatomy to keeping ladybug larva in the classroom. She also works hard to incorporate the Trinity Lutheran Church family into classroom activities including having students hone their writing skills with congregation pen pals and reading buddies as well as explaining her work as a Comfort Dog Handler to her students.

Ms. Burgess said she wants students to know Jesus is at the center of everything that happens in her classroom. “From teaching to discipline, I want my students to see how I live out my faith everyday.” About her time teaching at Trinity, Ms. Burgess said, “This school has such a community/family feeling. I think it’s because we – the teachers, staff, and parents – are all so devoted to God and education and making sure these kids are equipped to be good humans.”

Ms. Burgess is an avid follower of Pinterest organization tips and is a fan of Husker volleyball and football. She has a silver lab puppy named Bailey. She is a trained Comfort Dog Handler for Trinity Lutheran Church and volunteers in support of the church’s Forward ministry, which provides food, wipes, and diapers to families in need.