By Ian Folger
Madison Metropolitan School District
Principal Nkauj Nou Vang-Vue of Lake View Elementary School has been named the 2026 Administrator of the Year by the Wisconsin Association for Environmental Education (WAEE) in recognition of her leadership in advancing environmental education at the school.
Over the past eight years, Principal Vang-Vue has helped shape Lake View Elementary into a school where outdoor experiences and sustainability are part of daily instruction.
“Outdoor learning is an equity strategy that connects to students’ funds of knowledge and helps build their sense of self as learners,” Vang-Vue said. “I am proud of the work happening at Lake View and grateful to our educators, students and partners who help bring these experiences to life every day.”
Under Vang-Vue’s leadership, Lake View’s five-acre campus has been developed into a variety of outdoor learning spaces — including a literacy-focused StoryWalk and a nature course that promotes movement and exploration — and designed to support hands-on instruction and reflect the diversity of the school community. The school has also hosted environmental education summits and shared its work with educators from across the state.
“Principal Vang-Vue has created a learning environment where students can engage with the natural world while building critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” said Dr. Carlettra Stanford, assistant superintendent of schools and learning. “Her leadership reflects the kind of innovative thinking that helps students connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.”
Vang-Vue was recognized during the WAEE’s 2026 Celebration of Excellence in Environmental Education in April.
To learn more about outdoor education at Lake View Elementary, visit the school’s website (lakeview.madison.k12.wi.us/about-us/outdoor-learning).
