Jeff Gowing, 63
Hometown: Cottage Grove
Marital Status: Married
Partner occupation: accounting/finance
Children: 3 adult children
Public Sector work: US Army 1982 – 1988
Private Sector work: Production Operator 1989 – 2004; Millwright 2004 – 2023; currently retired
Elected Offices held: South Lane School District Board Feb 2024 – current; City of Cottage Grove Mayor Jan 2017 – Dec 2022; Cottage Grove City Councilor Sept 2009 – Dec 2016.
Unsuccessful runs for office: Oregon House Representative, May 2022: City of Cottage Grove Mayor, November 2022
One word to describe your leadership style: Collaborative
One word to describe you at your best: Organizer
One word to describe you at your worst: Impatient
I am running for re-election because, as a lifelong resident and graduate of the South Lane School District, I want to ensure that all students receive the best education possible and develop the skills necessary to succeed in their future.
Ensuring our students reach their maximum potential and supporting them through the many daily changes they face will help them become great citizens. I work with various non-profit groups that provide scholarships. Through this process, I have met many talented, self-motivated, and clear-visioned young adults.
As a tradesman, I know firsthand that not everyone is on a path to college after high school. Our Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is a vital component of our school system. Every student should have access to a quality education so that each student can realize their maximum potential and learn the skills to be productive and contributing citizens.
To achieve this goal, it is important that we have an involved and informed School Board, dedicated and passionate leaders and educators, all collaborating with parents, families, and students. Together, we can build resilient, well-educated students ready for life after graduation.
