זוכי הפרס

A gifted math teacher and devoted mentor, Loren Nelson was known for making complex ideas accessible, practical and memorable for students across Minnetonka. Over a 34-year career, he made learning meaningful through real-world applications, high expectations and a steady belief in every student’s ability to succeed. His legacy extends far beyond the classroom through his mentorship, family outreach and lifelong commitment to education, literacy and service.

Nelson began his Minnetonka career in 1964 as a seventh and eighth grade math teacher during Minnetonka West Junior High’s opening year. After it closed, he moved to Minnetonka Middle School East, eventually teaching at every Minnetonka middle school before finishing his career at Minnetonka High School. He retired in 1998.

Nelson believed math mattered when students could see it at work. At MHS, he baked biscotti and made espresso so students could graph a cooling curve. An avid cyclist, he also challenged students to analyze the forces involved in bicycle crashes and determine whether helmets made a measurable difference. In the 1980s, he spent three years as software instructor for 400 staff members before returning to the classroom. His investment in students extended well beyond their coursework. Rather than limiting his support to marquee school events, Nelson asked students what mattered to them and showed up. He cheered on gymnasts, divers, horseback riders and figure skaters.

“I got up early with a cup of coffee for a 6 o’clock figure skating training,” Nelson recalled. “I chose to support others with my presence and to be there in their other endeavors.”

He looked just as deliberately for opportunities to celebrate students academically. After students earned a high grade or made meaningful improvement, Nelson called their families with the good news. 

After retirement, Nelson helped establish Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Grant County, New Mexico, and expanded the program statewide. After returning to Minnesota, he helped launch a Carver County affiliate. Nelson continues pursuing another lifelong passion: cycling. He hopes to complete the equivalent of a fourth trip around the circumference of the earth.

“I wasn’t perfect,” Nelson said. “I think when all is said and done, though, I can be very proud of what I’ve accomplished.”