If you catch Mike Nordsten on a quiet evening, there’s a good chance he’s not in a meeting or reviewing board materials.

He’s probably sitting on his patio, a Diet Coke in hand, watching birds gather at the feeders in his yard.

It’s a simple moment—but for Nordsten, it reflects a life grounded in appreciation, community, and the quiet values that have shaped both his career and his continued service to students.

From a Small Town to a Lifelong Calling

Nordsten’s story begins in Blachly, Oregon—a small farming community where he graduated in a class of just 13 students. His school served grades 1 through 12 under one roof, creating an environment where “everyone knew everyone,” and teachers felt more like family than staff.

That sense of connection left a lasting impression.

One teacher, in particular—his sixth-grade teacher, who would later become his stepfather—helped shape the trajectory of his life. Known for humor, care, and a deep belief in his students, he inspired Nordsten to pursue education himself.

“I remember how much I admired him,” Nordsten shared. “He demonstrated a genuine love for his students and sought to bring out the best in each of us.”

A Career That Touched Every Corner of Education

That inspiration turned into a remarkable 45-year career in education.

Nordsten’s journey started humbly—as a school custodian during college. From there, he became a classroom teacher, spending more than two decades teaching German and math. He later transitioned into leadership, serving as both assistant principal and principal—right here in Moses Lake—for another 21 years.

It’s a rare path—one that gives him a perspective few others have.

Even beyond the classroom, Nordsten created opportunities for students to see the world—literally. He helped establish a student exchange program with a school in Germany, giving students the chance to live, learn, and travel abroad.

Why He Still Shows Up

After retiring in 2024, Nordsten could have stepped away completely.

But he wasn’t ready to be done.

Serving on the school board, he says, allows him to continue supporting students—just from a different vantage point.

“Kids are our number one priority,” he said. “If we keep in mind that it’s for the kids, we can do anything.”

That belief is what keeps him grounded, even during difficult conversations or complex decisions.

A Love for Moses Lake

Nordsten and his wife made Moses Lake home in 2016 after years of commuting. While leaving behind a longtime home wasn’t easy, he says the community made the transition worth it.

“We are glad to be here in Moses Lake,” he said. “People are friendly and always willing to jump in and help out a neighbor.”

He speaks fondly of Saturday mornings at the farmers market, where it’s almost guaranteed you’ll run into someone you know. It’s a small-town connection that still matters.

The Simple Things

Outside of his role on the board, Nordsten finds joy in the everyday—traveling with his wife, working in the yard, or planning his next road trip across the country. He’s on a mission to visit all 50 states, with only a handful left to go.

He also speaks fluent German—something many might not expect—and once spent a semester studying in Germany and Austria, earning a full year’s worth of college credit in the process.

What He Wants for Every Student

Ask Nordsten what matters most, and his answer is immediate.

He wants every student to walk into school feeling safe, valued, and supported.

“I hope they feel loved—and that they have at least one trusted adult they can go to,” he said.

It’s a simple idea. But it’s also the foundation of everything he believes about education.

Still Showing Up—for Kids

For Nordsten, board service isn’t about titles or recognition.

It’s about continuing the work he started decades ago—making sure every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Because at the end of the day, whether he’s in a classroom, an office, or a boardroom, his purpose hasn’t changed.

It’s always been about kids.