Teacher feature: Lydia Treichel

Meet Fargo North’s very own Lydia Treichel! She is one of the two AP Environmental Science teachers here, known for her dedication to both science and her students. Her love for North has grown since her first year in 2021, and her passion for teaching continues to grow as each year passes.
Treichel’s path to becoming an environmental science teacher wasn’t a consistent one. Originally aiming to be a dentist, Treichel had a change of heart after a hands-on dental camp made her realize that, despite her interest in science, maybe dentistry wasn’t the right fit. “I loved the procedures and thought it was really cool, but my hands are a little shaky,” said Treichel, laughing at the memory.
Recognizing her love for science and working with others, she shifted her track, beginning to pursue a degree in education and becoming a science teacher– a decision she hasn’t looked back on since.
Treichel holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and a broad science teaching licensure, allowing her to teach various subjects including environmental science, chemistry, and physics. When asked why she chose to focus on environmental science after physical science, she said, “I actually started with a background in physical sciences, but environmental science came with the job. I wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I do now.”
Now in her fourth year at Fargo North and her sixth year overall as an educator, Treichel’s love for teaching environmental science has blossomed. “Environmental science is one of my favorite subjects because it’s so relevant and important, especially now. People are starting to care more about our planet, and I feel privileged to contribute to that understanding and passion,” she explained.
Before coming to Fargo, Treichel spent two years teaching in rural Minnesota and then took a break from teaching to work as an admissions counselor in upstate New York. “I didn’t love my first two years of teaching and wanted to try something different,” she admitted. It was during this time that she realized how much she missed being in the classroom, and when the opportunity arose to return to teaching in Fargo, she eagerly accepted. “Coming back to teaching felt right, and I fell back in love with it,” she said.
Treichel’s passion for science is matched by her enthusiasm for promoting meaningful connections with her students. She describes her approach as hands-on and engaging, ensuring her classroom is a place where students are excited to learn. “My favorite part of teaching science is doing the labs,” said Treichel, “mixing it up between experiments and discussions keeps students engaged and helps them see science in action.”
Outside the classroom, Treichel is also deeply involved in extracurricular activities, coaching the girls’ throwing team in track and field. Having been a college athlete herself at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she met her husband, Treichel is no stranger to the dedication required in sports. “I love making those connections with students outside of the classroom in a different way. It’s a fun way to continue my passion for track while supporting the students’ growth,” she said.
Treichel is also a very big baker at home! It is one of her biggest hobbies that she enjoys doing in her spare time to relax from the stress of work and life. She likes the process of creating sweet treats, from cookies to cakes, it’s pretty therapeutic to her. Treichel also just loves giving her baked goods to others to enjoy and savor – taking pride in her amazing creations.
Family plays a big role in Treichel’s life, and she’s currently preparing to welcome her first child. “I’m excited and nervous at the same time,” she admits, smiling. Despite the upcoming change in her life, she’s determined to continue making an impact in her students’ lives. “I’ll definitely miss teaching during maternity leave, but I’m also looking forward to this new chapter. It’s all about finding balance.”
Treichel’s journey into teaching may not have been straightforward, but it’s clear that she’s found her calling. Whether it’s sharing her knowledge of science, inspiring students to care about the environment, or forming lasting relationships with her students and colleagues, Treichel is a teacher who leaves a positive impact on everyone she meets.