Dear WRVC Community,
We are overjoyed to announce that our magnificent Building Trades teacher, Mr. Kirk Nygren, has been selected by his peers to be the WRVC Teacher of the Year for the Westbrook School District! Please read the reasons why below!
When considering why Kirk Nygren should be recognized as the Maine Teacher of the Year, it becomes immediately clear that he is the complete package. For Kirk Nygren, Career and Technical Education is not just a profession; it is a responsibility he carries with pride and heart. While some may describe the Building Trades teacher as an excellent ambassador for CTE learning, his commitment runs far deeper than representation alone. Kirk is a true steward of CTE, taking pride in its mission, assuming responsibility for its success, and caring for it as something that has been entrusted to him. He does not simply teach a trade; he builds confidence, models strong values, and works tirelessly to ensure CTE learning remains meaningful and transformative for his current and future students.
Kirk exemplifies the qualities we strive to nurture in our students. He approaches his work with genuine care, combining creativity and passion with an exceptional work ethic and the determination to solve challenges head-on. Where others may see challenges, Kirk sees opportunity. He approaches his work with humility and intention, always seeking ways to become a stronger teacher. By doing so, he demonstrates for students that progress comes from effort, reflection, and the courage to make mistakes. His students leave his program with technical expertise and a deep understanding of integrity and service.
Kirk Nygren’s dedication extends beyond his classroom, as he creates authentic learning opportunities that connect students with their community and prepare them to meet the evolving needs of Maine’s workforce. A powerful example of this commitment is the ongoing partnership with the Westbrook Gorham Rotary. Over the course of two years, Mr. Nygren’s students will build a house from the ground up. From design, framing, siding, to all finish work, his students gain comprehensive hands-on experience in every phase of the construction process. This long-standing partnership, one of the longest Rotary-supported student house builds in the country, highlights Kirk’s ability to connect education, community, and workforce development.
Kirk’s dedication to students extends far beyond the school day. He goes above and beyond to support learners who need extra help, staying after school to ensure students understand the material and feel proud of the work they produce. When a devoted substitute teacher and beloved colleague at WRVC passed away, Kirk was the first to envision a way to honor his legacy, organizing efforts to raise funds and establish a scholarship in his colleague’s name.
As workforce concerns continue to grow across Maine, Kirk works tirelessly to maintain full enrollment in his program. He recruits and retains students from diverse backgrounds and is deeply committed to supporting female students in a field where they remain underrepresented. His passion for CTE is unmistakable. Students consistently express gratitude for Mr. Nygren and the Building Trades Program, recognizing how well prepared they feel entering the workforce. His colleagues proudly nominate Kirk Nygren for Teacher of the Year, believing his integrity, heart, and unwavering dedication deserve recognition far beyond our doors.
