LifeChanger of the Year Profile | National Life Group

Randall Deich was nominated by his friend, Gus Fortich.

"Having resided in Broward County for five decades, and having worked as a teacher for over half that amount, I can testify to the impact Randall Deich has made in the community," said Fortich. "The work he has accomplished at Lauderhill 6-12 STEM-MED is one of the largest footprints on Broward County students I have known."

Eight years ago, Mr. Deich volunteered to enter a triple F school that was re-purposed to turn around a failing culture-a school that needed immediate assistance. He developed a Computer Science (CS) program that focused on coding skills, student mentoring, and authentic work experiences to solve community problems. His program, driven by industry volunteers, provides students weekly coaching in these areas, allowing companies to “Grow Their Own” future technology workforce. This safe learning environment addressed social-emotional learning needs that allowed his students to participate in events, competitions, professional development, and coaching that has prepared them with entry level skills for career readiness within two years.

Students who participated in his CS program were provided with current and relevant areas of learning that played to their strengths. From a triple F school, Lauderhill 6-12 students have now been recognized nationally for video game development, mobile app development, and programming applications. The local community has recognized their value by offering work-related experiences, business and tech internships, and paid Computer Science jobs.

"The impact of Randall’s work has influenced the attitude and aspirations of students, parents, and stakeholders," said Fortich. "He has changed the perception of partners and community members and has turned around the culture of his school."

Susan Colton Posted over a year ago

Randall Deich has been changing the lives of students, teachers, and community members since I first met him in 2002. He co-authored a $1.6 million U.S. Department of Education Grant for my Leadership Development Department which we received and used to redesign our leadership continuum, meet new state leadership standards, and increase student achievement. Randall also designed and coordinated a Teacher Induction Program, focusing on professional development, coaching and mentoring support, sustainability for teacher retention, and increased student achievement. Fast forward to 2018, when I observed his current “Grow Your Own” STEM program at Lauderhill 6-12. Randall engages technology industry professionals with high school STEM students and provides an authentic, comprehensive career path from school to the 21st-century world of work. His students achieve national recognition and in 2019, Randall was inducted into the Seventh Annual Broward Education Foundation Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame. Each year, this prestigious award recognizes only three educators, three community members, and one lifetime or special achievement award winner in the 6th largest school system in the nation. Randall Deich is one of the most customer-focused, selfless, servant leaders I have ever known. His sole purpose is to increase the opportunity, equity, and quality of instruction for underrepresented learners. This top award provides a $5000 donation to the school and an additional $5000 personally to the award winner. If he wins, Randall has pledged to donate his personal $5000 to a Lauderhill 6-12 student as a scholarship. THAT makes him THE Life Changer of the Year Award Winner in my eyes, for sure! What about you?

LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Randall Deich

Comments (2)

Susan Colton Posted over a year ago

Deborah Posner Posted over a year ago