As of today, the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District has a new trustee.
Shawn Mortensen was described by a District spokesperson as “a dedicated Los Gatos High School parent” who is currently serving as the president of the school’s Home & School Club.
He was selected (unanimously) and sworn-in at a Special Board Meeting held this morning.
The board conducted interviews with 11 candidates.
“We were looking for someone who could complement our Board and bring a new perspective,” said Board President Steve Chen in a news release. “Shawn’s leadership, dedication and cross-collaboration with both Los Gatos and Saratoga parent communities made him a standout candidate. We are grateful for the outstanding interest and engagement from our community members who stepped forward to apply for this vacancy. We were very lucky to have so many exceptional candidates.”
After going through the public school system in Grand Rapids, Mich., Mortensen chose to move his family to Los Gatos largely due to the strength of the districts’ schools, according to the release. And he’s been involved in school community for years.
In October 2020, Shawn was chosen to lead the Los Gatos High School’s Home & School Club through the pandemic; he’s also been a member of the Wildcat Foundation Board. Mortensen has volunteered with Los Gatos Little League (2018-2023) and Los Gatos United Soccer (2014-2018).
“His dedication to student success extends beyond his own children, as he shared his commitment to fostering the best possible learning environment for all students in the district,” a spokesperson said in the release. “Shawn will serve on the Board effective immediately and will help guide district policies, initiatives and strategic planning efforts.”
