NEW PRINCIPAL Q&A: Nathan Randall, East Ouachita Middle

How did you get into education?

Originally, I did not want to be in education, I wanted to be a professional musician or be a professor at the university level.  However, I had some great, influential educators in my life who convinced me otherwise, so here I am.

When did you realize you wanted to go beyond the classroom and become an administrator?

It was 2006; I worked for then Principal Todd Guice at OPHS. Being around him, Mr. Mahoney, Mr. Long, Mr. Heidtman, Coach “Bear” and Mr. Esaw daily, I saw the positive impact they had on the students, faculty, and the community, and I thought that might be something I would want and could do.  I remember distinctly sitting down and talking to each of them about it and their thoughts on it.  From those conversations and watching that group of leaders lead, they inspired me, and that’s what placed me on to the path I walk today. 

What kind of leader do you want to be?

People say I’m cool, relaxed, collected, but really I’m like a duck on water.  I’m constantly thinking and looking at ways to grow our students, our school, and make everyone feel valued and heard. My brain does not stop. I’d like to think I’m a level-headed, common sense leader who values input from others, makes decisions based on data rather than emotion, and puts others before myself. I’m just a product of the wonderful team and staff I work with. 

What do you want to accomplish in the first nine weeks as principal?

The first nine weeks, I’d like to continue to build on the positive culture and environment we started last year.  We are not going to waste anytime and are going to begin growing ALL of our students on day one.  The expectations of our students, parents, teachers, administration, and staff are going to be raised, with everyone on the same page, working together for the same goal….GROW ALL OF OUR KIDS! 

Who are you away from school? Tell us about your personal life, hobbies and your family.

My daughter Cadence comes first; she’ll be an incoming freshman at OPHS.  I like going back home to visit my parents in Kolin every chance I can. I love golf, I play in a lot of golf tournaments.  I’m an avid duck hunter and enjoy my camp on the river with my buddies and duck dog Whiskey. I’m a passionate LSU fan and absolutely love LSU baseball. I enjoy attending Ouachita sporting events; I’m a Lion for life.  Other than that I have a close circle of friends that I hang out with when we can. I like to stay low key and out of the lime light. 

THE RANDALL FILE:

2017-2024: Ouachita Parish High School, Assistant Principal

2004-2017: Ouachita Parish High School, Director of Bands

2003-2004: West Monroe High School, Assistant Director of Bands