Ron Pagel has dedicated over three decades to shaping the future of Dover-Eyota Public Schools in Minnesota, serving as a school board member and influencing the district’s direction. Recently, he received recognition from the Minnesota School Boards Association for his lengthy service, standing out among more than 300 districts in the state as one of only three honorees.
Pagel’s involvement with the school district extends beyond his tenure on the board. A graduate of Dover-Eyota High School, he completed his education there in 1979. His personal experiences as a student motivated him to contribute to the community and ensure that future generations have access to quality education. “I felt good about what they did and provided for me, and I wanted to see that continue (for others) as I moved forward,” Pagel stated.
Decades of Change and Challenges
Pagel’s journey on the school board began when he was elected at the age of 35, shortly after his children started school. Since then, he has held this significant role continuously, witnessing and guiding the district through substantial changes. The evolution of technology is among the most notable shifts, with the internet transforming from a burgeoning resource in the mid-1990s to an essential tool now commonly accessed via smartphones. Traditional chalkboards have transitioned to smartboards, and students now use Chromebooks instead of paper notebooks.
Throughout his service, Pagel has managed the complexities of a pandemic, overseen numerous building projects, and collaborated with four different superintendents. His insights have been enriched by his wife, who taught for over 25 years at Kasson-Mantorville. “She was on the classroom side of things, and I was on the school board side of it,” he explained, noting that their discussions offered valuable perspectives for both.
Despite his initial intentions not to run for re-election in recent years, circumstances led him to continue his service. In 2018, a lack of candidates prompted him to stand for another term. By the time of the 2022 election, the district faced considerable transitions, including the hiring of a new superintendent and ongoing building projects. With institutional knowledge dwindling, Pagel recognized the importance of his experience. “I couldn’t walk away,” he remarked. “I couldn’t leave that on someone else’s plate.”
Looking Ahead: Uncertain Future and New Challenges
As Pagel’s current term approaches its conclusion, he remains undecided about seeking another term on the board. He acknowledges the persistent challenges facing school districts, including declining birth rates, which require schools to adapt to an uncertain future. Many districts are grappling with tight budgets, making it increasingly difficult to secure funding for operations.
After 30 years of dedicated service, Pagel understands the complexities involved in addressing these issues. “I have to see what the circumstances are,” he said, reflecting on the possibility of continuing his role on the board. “The challenges have not gotten any less.” His commitment to the Dover-Eyota community remains steadfast as he considers the future of the district he has helped shape for so many years.
