In a significant milestone for Dover-Eyota Public Schools, Ron Pagel has marked three decades of service as a school board member, continuing to influence the district’s direction since he was first elected at the age of 35. His contributions were recognized this year by the Minnesota School Boards Association, which honored him as one of only three individuals from over 300 school districts in Minnesota for his lengthy commitment.
Pagel’s connection to the Dover-Eyota community runs deep. A graduate of Dover-Eyota High School, he reflects on his upbringing in the district as a driving factor behind his decision to join the school board. “I felt good about what they did and provided for me, and I wanted to see that continue for others as I moved forward,” he stated.
His journey to the board was not immediate. Pagel repeatedly ran for the position before finally being elected. As a father of young children ready to start school, he saw the opportunity to contribute directly to their education. Over the years, he has witnessed significant changes in the educational landscape, including advancements in technology and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adapting to Change and Challenges
In his role, Pagel has navigated various transitions, from the introduction of the internet in the mid-1990s to the adoption of smartboards and Chromebooks in classrooms. He has worked alongside four different superintendents and has been instrumental in managing building projects that aim to enhance educational facilities. His wife, a former teacher with over 25 years of experience in Kasson-Mantorville, has provided him with valuable insights into the classroom perspective, enriching their discussions about school governance.
Despite initially contemplating not running for re-election in the past two election cycles, Pagel found himself back on the ballot due to unforeseen circumstances. In 2018, a lack of candidates prompted him to seek another term, while in 2022, the district faced significant changes, including a new superintendent and ongoing construction projects. Recognizing the need for continuity, he chose to remain in his position. “I couldn’t walk away. I couldn’t leave that on someone else’s plate,” Pagel explained.
As his current term nears its conclusion, Pagel is weighing his options for the future. He has not yet decided whether to run for another term. The educational landscape continues to evolve, presenting new challenges such as declining birth rates and budget constraints that many districts are struggling to manage.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his three decades of service, Pagel acknowledges the ongoing obstacles that school districts face. “The challenges have not gotten any less,” he noted. He remains committed to supporting the educational needs of his community, and he is aware that his experience could be vital in addressing these issues.
With a legacy of dedicated service, Ron Pagel’s influence on Dover-Eyota Public Schools is profound. As he contemplates his next steps, he continues to embody the spirit of commitment and community that has defined his tenure on the school board for the past 30 years.