Page 7 - TTWINov2025

Energy
Teaching Today Wisconsin | Fall 2025 Page 7

Energy Educator of the Year 2025 — Nick Gagnon

guished himself as a passionate leader not only an incredible teacher but also a Instruction, and Assessment at Chippewa
in renewable energy education, demon- catalyst for change within our district and Falls Area School District. “His leadership
strating an unwavering commitment to community.” has sparked meaningful, lasting change—
student engagement, curriculum inno- In 2022, Nick and a small group of not just in our schools, but across the
vation, and community impact. Nick’s students began the Chippewa Falls High broader Chippewa Falls community.”
contributions include leading professional School Green Team which focuses on sus- Mr. Gagnon’s award for the Energy
development workshops for educators, tainability and energy conservation. Under Educator of the Year is a reflection of
attending national conferences such as his mentorship, the Green Team his tireless work ethic, innovative spirit,
the National Energy Education has achieved a long list of and steadfast commitment to preparing
Summit, and pioneering the accomplishments, includ- students to become thoughtful, environ-
use of flipped classrooms to ing: guiding his students mentally conscious leaders.
enhance student engage- in earning FAA drone Congratulations Nick!
ment. He also created a pilot certifications Courtesy of the Wisconsin K-12
comprehensive Canvas and creating thermal Energy Education Program University of
course to serve as a hub imaging maps to iden- Wisconsin-Stevens Point
for energy education tify heat loss in district
resources, benefiting both buildings, securing
students and fellow educa- over $180,000 in grant
tors. As both a teacher and funding for renewable cfsd.chipfalls.k12.wi.us
The Energy Educator of the Year leader, he has consistently gone energy projects, includ-
Award, presented by Wisconsin’s K-12 above and beyond to integrate ing a 37.8 kW solar system for
Energy Education Program (KEEP), renewable energy concepts into science HOPE Village (an organization that builds KEEP is seeking nominations for the
highlights a network of educators education, while also inspiring students homes for the unsheltered) and a 65+kW Wisconsin Energy Educator of the Year
throughout the Badger State for empow- to become active advocates for sustain- solar system on the high school as well as Award. Nominate yourself or others for
ering students, teachers, and community ability at the local, state, and national speaking at a multitude of events at the this award by December 31, 2025.
members to make informed choices for a levels. “Nick’s dedication to environ- local, state and national levels.
sustainable future. mental education and hands-on learning “Nick’s vision and execution are www.uwsp.edu/wcee/wcee/keep/eeoty
Nick Gagnon, science teacher at is unmatched,” said Chippewa Falls High nothing short of phenomenal,” said Susan
Chippewa Falls High School, has distin- School Principal Donna Goodman. “He’s Kern, Executive Director of Curriculum,

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