Meet the High School Science Department

Meet the Teachers: Arcadia High School Science Department

The Arcadia High School Science Department is proud to highlight its dedicated team of educators who inspire students daily through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and scientific exploration. Our mission is to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation of science in students, empowering them to explore and comprehend the natural world, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and become informed, responsible citizens. Through a rigorous and engaging science education, we aim to inspire innovation, prepare students for diverse career paths, and equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to address global challenges. We are committed to fostering a lifelong curiosity and love for learning that drives progress and enriches lives.

Nate Pronschinske, a 2014 Arcadia High School graduate, returned to teach in 2019 after earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and Education with Broadfield Science Certification from UW-Eau Claire. Currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Chemistry Education from Grand Canyon University, Mr. Pronschinske teaches Chemistry, Advanced Chemistry, and Physics, with plans to offer a College-Accredited Chemistry Course in 2025. He and his wife Cassie, a special education teacher, have two daughters, Maeve and Vayla, who attend the Little Raiders Child Care Center. Brad Malpert, a graduate of D.C. Everest High School, holds a Bachelor’s in Secondary Science Education from UW-River Falls and a Master’s in Education from Saint Mary’s University-Winona. With 18 years of teaching experience, Mr. Malpert currently teaches Biology and Anatomy & Physiology and plans to offer CAPP Biology in 2026-2027. He and his wife, Heather, have lived in the Arcadia community with their three children, Madison, McKenzie, and Mikah, since 2017. Michael Hennig, a Milwaukee native and Franklin High School graduate, has taught at Arcadia for all three years of his professional career. He holds a degree in Chemistry Education from UW-La Crosse and currently teaches Integrated Science and Biology.

Collectively, this team brings 27 years of experience to Arcadia students and shares a unified mission: to empower students to explore the natural world, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for science. Recently, Chemistry students have worked on a project purifying dirty water using separation methods, while Physics students designed a monorail rocket to safely transport paintball “passengers” across 10 meters and survive a crash. Integrated Science students will begin an unknown powder lab, using chemical testing and the periodic table to identify substances, and Biology students are learning through the hands-on Open SciEd curriculum, using board games and investigations to study ecology and cells. Looking ahead, the third trimester will feature a Chemistry Showcase where students research and demonstrate chemical reactions for the Freshman class, bringing science to life through exciting presentations. The Arcadia High School Science Department remains committed to fostering curiosity, creativity, and innovation, preparing students to tackle challenges in the classroom and beyond.

We'd like to highlight an exceptional student, Isabel Dickman. Izzy has been a consistent student in regards to her determination to maintain high academic success and her curiosity for science. She always has a positive attitude and an eagerness to be the best student and person she can be!