Cody High School (CHS) Principal Nathan Tedjeske works to ensure students have access to exceptional learning experiences that prepare them for college, career and life. The former principal of nearby Cody Middle School, Tedjeske set a standard of leadership and positive change that he carried with him to CHS.
Through innovative approaches like “high-impact Fridays,” Tedjeske provides students with the opportunity to accelerate student learning toward grade-level benchmarks as well as take advantage of sample career and technical education (CTE) classes. With an emphasis on high-quality teaching aligned to Wyoming performance and content standards, as well as ACT prep classes for college-bound students, Tedjeske helps students build a strong foundation for future success. Additionally, Tedjeske’s strategic planning and partnership with local business leaders – which he started as principal of Cody Middle School – continue to grow internship and apprenticeship opportunities for CHS students.
Tedjeske is known for creating tangible, real-world learning opportunities starting at young ages. At Cody Middle School, he shepherded the creation of an innovation center to include a drone lab, digital recording studio, and a manufacturing space. Among key projects were student-driven podcasts featuring the likes of Wyoming First Lady Jennie Gordon and District Superintendent Vernon Orndorff; the creation of digital videos and music; student artwork; clothing manufacturing; and 3D printing. Tedjeske facilitated a Fine Arts Exploratory Gala showcasing the students’ work, complete with a student-compiled soundtrack and silent auction to sell the student art.
Tedjeske’s influence and leadership extend to the Cody community. Active at the district level, Tedjeske is involved with the Level Up Leadership group, the Wyoming Principal Mentor program, Park County School District 6 Policy Committees and the Cody Education Association Committee. He attends legislative sessions for state policy at the Capitol, and engages in meaningful conversations with community members to gather feedback and foster relationships. His efforts support Park County School District 6’s Classroom 2 Careers initiative, and Governor Mark Gordon’s Reimagining and Innovating the Delivery of Education (RIDE) initiative overall, dedicated to elevating Wyoming’s primary and secondary education system.
Tedjeske earned his Bachelor of Arts in secondary education and social studies from Waynesburg University in 2013 and his Master of Arts in educational administration from Grand Canyon University in 2018.
Press release: Cody, Wyoming, Principal Surprised with $25,000 Milken Educator Award
