Randy Mogen
Tell us about yourself and your background.
I was born in Livingston, graduated from Park High School and went off to college. I received a degree in Biology. I ended up teaching in Ketchikan, Alaska for 22 years. In 2004, I returned to Livingston to teach at Park High. I taught science for 18 years, coached JV boys and girls basketball, and was actively involved in high school. I retired from teaching in 2022 after 40 years of teaching.
What inspired you to run for the school board position?
Education has been a powerful influencer in my life. I felt that I had some excellent experience, knowledge and leadership skills that could be put to good use for our school district in a different way. I wanted to give back to our community in a positive way and I felt that running for the school board was one of those ways.
What are you hoping to accomplish if you are elected?
I am hoping to bring my passion and enthusiasm for education. I want to help make Livingston a place where teachers and support staff want to work. A place where students can have the best educational experience, both academically and through various activities.
How are you going to accomplish these goals?
First, I want to find out what is working and what might not be working in our schools. I want to find out what the teachers need to do their job so I can support them in helping them do their job. I want to find out what is working or not working that makes students engaged in their learning experience or not engaged. So, listen, learn, and then take action in a positive way.
What do you think is the biggest challenge we face in our schools today?
Schools have many challenges, from inadequate funding, to helping students navigate the complexities of education in 2024. It is not easy for students, with all of the expectations, social media, and other issues that constantly arise for them. Students need to know that school is a safe place to be who they are so they can flourish.
What do you think is the role of a school board member?
My role as a school board member is to help the superintendent do the job he or she was hired to do. As a school board member you need to work collaboratively with the other board members, the superintendent, to help lead the district. You need to learn about what is going on in the district, both positively or negatively, by listening to students, parents, teachers and administrators. Then you help guide the district through decisions that prioritize what is best for students, teachers, and support staff.
Who is an educator who impacted your life?
I would have to say my high school biology teacher. I was inspired to learn about nature and the wonders of life. That inspired me to want to help the students I taught see what the possibilities might be for them.
