Kris was born in Billings, Montana, and grew up on a ranch on Bluewater Creek outside of Fromberg. His Montana roots, family, faith, and commitment to community have shaped much of his life and
service.
Kris and his wife, Beth, live in Laurel and are grateful to be part of the Laurel community. Their family includes their son, Connor; daughter, Alexandra, and her husband, Tyler Shrauger (with grandsons, Sawyer and Sonny); their youngest daughter, Annika; and their bonus daughter, Alyssa Meadows.
The Vogele family owns and operates URAPEEIN PORTA POTS in Billings and Laurel and also operated The VUE & BREW movie theater in downtown Laurel for many years.
Kris brings many years of experience in education, youth services, residential care, nonprofit leadership, business ownership, and community service. His background includes leadership roles with The Milton Hershey School (Hershey, PA), Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Central Methodist University, Rocky Mountain College, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County. Through these roles, Kris has worked with children, families, staff, schools, and community organizations, with a focus on leadership, student development, organizational culture, and supporting young people as they grow.
Kris is also actively involved in the Laurel community through local business, school, youth, civic, and community activities. He has served as a public school board trustee, coach, youth leader, volunteer, and supporter of local events and organizations. He believes successful schools are built through strong families, committed teachers, active leadership, and a shared sense of purpose grounded in biblical principles.
As a member of the Grace Montessori Academy Board of Directors, Kris is especially interested in supporting education within a faith-based community. He also has a strong interest in career and technical education and believes students benefit when learning is experiential and connected to character, purpose, practical skills, creativity, responsibility, and service to others.
Kris is excited to serve Grace Montessori Academy and looks forward to supporting the school’s mission, families, students, staff, and future growth.