By Rich Larson, KYMN News
On Monday night, Bridgewater Elementary School Principal Nancy Antoine received the Northfield Human Rights Award for an individual, recognizing her decades-long commitment to education and her leadership in fostering inclusive environments for students, staff, and families.
For Antoine, inclusivity is more than a philosophy—it’s a daily practice. The goal, she said, is to make sure everyone is invited to the table, so everyone has an opportunity to be successful, and everyone is seen, heard, and valued. Her approach emphasizes treating every child as if they were her own, a perspective she encourages among her staff.
“I tell you, like I said on Monday night, children are my passion. They’re definitely my passion. And I want to make sure that we treat every child as if they were our own. And I talk to my teachers about that a lot. What would you do differently if this were your child? What would you want? What would you want for our kids if this were your child? And that really changes your mindset.”
Antoine’s passion for education began early. Growing up in Lutsen, Minnesota, she faced challenges as a biracial child, including isolation on long bus rides. Her ability to help classmates with math homework became her “safety net” and sparked a lifelong love of teaching. After earning a degree in math education and two master’s degrees, Antoine taught in Texas and Minneapolis before moving into administration. For the past 19 years, she has led Bridgewater Elementary, creating a school culture rooted in connection and care.
Her philosophy extends beyond academics. She said she treasures the small interactions that make a big impact, like singing with a kindergartner in the hallway or reassuring a fifth grader about her height.
“I say those are my Million Dollar Moments. You couldn’t pay me more money than I get with those discussions with kids, because those are life skills for them. I don’t want her ever feeling like she’s less than, because she’s enough just the way she is. But that’s why it’s every single individual student.”
In 2021, Antoine was named Minnesota Principal of the Year, a testament to her influence on education statewide. Now, after nearly two decades at Bridgewater, she plans to retire at the end of the school year to focus on family, including caring for her husband and 91-year-old mother. Though stepping away is bittersweet, Antoine promises to remain active in the community, saying that she is just a phone call away.
Rich Larson is owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
