Mike Nerland is the new Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning. He came to ESD 112 after spending 20 years with the Camas School District, most recently as Superintendent.
How long have you worked for ESD 112 and what does your job entail?
I have served as the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning at ESD 112 for close to one month.
What do you like best about your job?
I like the fact that every day I learn new things and I get to be part of a team of talented, caring professionals that contribute to providing meaningful and equitable educational opportunities for all kids.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
Since I have only been on the job for a month, the most challenging part is learning the details about the many programs offered through the Division of Teaching and Learning as well as the funding model of ESDs as a whole. Also, getting to know everyone’s name. Please have patience with me on that one.
Single? Married? Kids? Pets?
I have been married to my wonderful wife Rita for 34 years and we have been blessed with three beautiful daughters—Krista, Jessi and Shayna. For whatever crazy reason after Rita and I became empty-nesters we added two dogs to our family—P-Nut and Pippi.
What do you enjoy doing with your free time?
I like to spend time with family and friends. I enjoy traveling, hiking, fishing, as well as cheering on the Seahawks and Blazers. As a member of a couple different Fantasy Football Leagues I like shooting smack to my friends who I usually beat quite severely.
If you could live in a book, TV show or movie, what would it be?
I would definitely live in the Game of Thrones series and help Jon Snow battle evil.
If you could master one skill you don’t have right now, what would it be?
I would like to be a master of all current and future technology.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
I would like to be able to fly so I would never be caught in a traffic jam again.
If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?
I would travel to the past during the time of the Mountain Men and westward expansion. I think it would have been incredible to be one of the first to discover the magnificent beauty of the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Northwest.
What teacher inspired you the most? How did they?
My high school journalism teacher Mr. McFarland. Nobody in my family had ever gone to college and I certainly didn’t think I could. However, Mr. McFarland instilled in me the self-confidence that led me to pursue a college degree.
What was something you learned in the last week?
During my shift at the Clark County Fair I learned just how much kids like to play with, touch and throw flax-seed.
What did you want to be when you were little?
A cowboy.
What future events are you looking forward to?
Someday, hopefully, becoming a grandparent.
What was your most interesting past job?
I have had many jobs ranging from bartender to working on the railroad and they all have been interesting. However, my first ever job was as a turkey herder and, believe me, on certain days that was very interesting.
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