Hans Nelson
7th-8th Grade Teacher
Math and Science

I was born and raised in the Fox River Valley.  All of my life I have been surrounded by educators; both grandmothers were teachers, numerous aunts and uncles, and even my parents and brother were involved in education.  Throughout my own trip through institutional halls, sports have been a big part of my life.  In both high school and college, I played football and was a member of the wrestling and track teams.  My first taste of teaching began as a lifeguard and water safety instructor as a teen.  Later, as an undergraduate in college I started coaching.  And finally I was a teaching assistant at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh while earning my masters degree.  Before becoming a full-time teacher, I was in the world of entertainment.  I was a radio D.J. and a member of an improvisational troupe.  Despite my efforts and forecasted path for stardom, Hurricane Andrew had other plans for me.  Now instead of making my mark in Florida’s booming cruise entertainment, I am able to enlighten a different captive audience for five periods a day.  Before returning to the valley, I taught and coached middle school in Waukesha, WI for three years.  My return to my roots brought me to Appleton North High School, where I taught and coached for eight years.  I have since hung up the whistle to raise my own little athletes, Maximus and Laurel.

Nelson Trivia:

1.  What was the final score of my state championship football game (my senior year of high school)?
2.  What is the name of the still functioning comedy group that Mr. Nelson started at Appleton North High School?
3.  What was Mr. Nelson’s undergraduate major at Carleton College?
4.  At what University did Mr. Nelson coach football?
5.  What famous T.V. star called Mr. Nelson “little buddy”?

Favorites:

Food:                          Yes
Book:                         The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Television Show:    Heroes
Movie:                        The Incredibles