Peshtigo Teacher Mike Paquette Technical Ed Educator of the Year

The Wisconsin Technology Education Association (WTEA) is an association of teachers, agencies, and industry organizations dedicated to improving technology and engineering education at all grade levels within the state of Wisconsin. This year, Mike Paquette from the Peshtigo School District has been awarded teacher of the year by the WTEA.

Paquette currently teaches seventh and eighth grade technology education, as well as high school welding classes, automotive classes, and CNC prototyping and design. Paquette is involved in other leadership positions too. He’s a NWTC certified instructor and helps lead SkillsUSA. Paquette is an advisor for the Peshtigo Robotics Team and has hosted Robot Rodeo, in addition to working on the FVTC committee for Urban Search and Rescue robotics competition.
Paquette prides himself in breaking learning down into bite size pieces, then grading students on work based skills. “My goal as a teacher of technology is to provide opportunities for students to become well rounded workers and community members.” Paquette’s philosophy includes the principles that “learning takes practice and better practice makes better products.”

Students like the way Paquette teaches. “Mr. Paquette runs an amazing program here. He makes it a priority in his class to prepare students for the workplace, shares Jenson Schwittay. Trandon Glover says, “I love the way he puts so much energy into his material.” Issac Dennis says, “I very much like seeing demonstrations he gives us before we do things.” Chole Rich adds, “I really enjoy the amount of fun we have with the crazy projects we build.” “In welding class, the bend test is my favorite project so far, states Roen Inghram. “It showed us that it takes more than one try at something to succeed.”

In addition, students love the skills they learn in Paquette’s technology education classes. Lex Nemec emphasizes, “I like working on cars. I really like working on cars!” Issac Dennis also comments, “I’m actually going to work in the automotive field. This will help me a lot.” Schwittay states, “I am looking at making welding my career path. The basic knowledge of welding, as well as the experience I’m getting will go a long way.” Adin Reiswitz agrees, “If I become a welder, I could make a lot of money!”

Mr. Paquette helps Remington Wood and Malakai Yackle with the Urban Search and Rescue robot they create for SkillsUSA regional Event, February 17 at Fox Valley Technical College.

Tour of our capital that Mr. Paquette helped to chaperone, along with others from Peshtigo High School. Without Colleges help and guidance Mr. Paquette would not be where he is today.

Mr. Paquette At the Wisconsin State Capital in the legislative chambers.

 

Category:

Subscriber Login