Chris R. Trottier

Chris's dedication to public education is unmistakable in his 26 years of service, which includes 20 years as a school and district leader and 16 years as a high school principal. He is currently licensed in Wisconsin as a Superintendent, Principal, Director of Curriculum/Instruction and Special Education/Pupil Services, and Business Manager. His primary commitment and focus are as a father to Lauren, Ella, and Cal and a husband to Mary, a school district nurse. In addition to his professional roles, Chris is deeply invested in his communities. Over the last decade, he has coached youth sports, is a member of the Vote Yes Group in Burlington, serves as a board member at VIP Services, Inc., and engages in various community-based projects as a member of the Elkhorn Rotary Club. This commitment to community service is a testament to his dedication and care for the community. In his free time, Chris indulges in his love for travel, reading, and do-it-yourself projects, demonstrating his continuous quest for knowledge and personal development.

As a school and district leader, Chris is best known for his transformational leadership style and his unwavering commitment to student access and opportunities. He develops systems around future-ready metrics, and the schools and districts that Chris has served have seen gains in open enrollment, student achievement, expansion of STEM Education, and increases in college and career readiness programming. Whether it is presenting nationally or within the state of Wisconsin, Chris seeks opportunities to share his lessons and successes with the hope of increasing student access and opportunities for all children, regardless of their zip code. He knows that the work cannot be accomplished alone, which is why he continues to see strategic partnerships and relationships as a guiding force to maximize adult and student learning. His energy and leadership is about connecting employers, colleges and universities, and economic development organizations with students, teachers, and schools. This commitment to collaboration has resulted in Elkhorn Area School District students leading the state in dual-credit enrollment and technical certification, expanding work-based learning experiences for students with disabilities by partnering with two large employers in Walworth County and building two homes with Habitat for Humanity. Besides the numerous school and district recognitions, which range from PLTW District of Distinct AVID Demonstration School at Elkhorn Area Middle and High School, Chris was recognized in 2020 as a Herb Kohl Foundation Principal Leadership Award.