Our District

      Superintendent James Cracraft 

August 26, 2022

Dear Gaylord Community Families:

I hope this note finds you well and enjoying all that a northern Michigan summer has to offer. The beginning of the school year signals the end of summer break, but also brings with it the excitement of a new year and endless possibilities for our students and families. The return to teaching and learning with the start of fall sports, marching band, and various school activities has always inspired me as an educator. A new start brings new opportunities and a fresh perspective for our students and staff. I began working as your superintendent in July and have enjoyed the transition and working with Superintendent Pearson the past few weeks. I have also been busy meeting staff and community members, and learning more about the Gaylord Community.  GCS is indeed a great place to work and learn!

The administrative team has been engaged with hiring new staff and implementing professional development for our outstanding teaching and support teams. Our District theme this year will focus on building student resilience, and appropriately overcoming challenges. I have been very impressed with the mission and vison of our district and the level of professionalism and commitment to children and families I have seen these past few weeks. I feel very fortunate to lead in Gaylord.

NEW TEACHING STAFF Fall 2022

I was very impressed with the efforts of our administrative team to attract, interview, hire, and welcome new staff this past summer. We appreciate the support from our staff members who have served on hiring committees or stepped up to serve as mentors to our new staff as well. Our buildings and various departments are well staffed. We are excited about the world of opportunities the new school year will bring.

School officially starts for our students and families on September 6, 2022. For the past few weeks, our administrative team and support staff have been laser-focused on preparing for the coming school year. A huge “shout out” of appreciation to our food service, maintenance, grounds, and technology departments and to our custodians for getting our buildings ready for staff and students!

Great things are happening in Gaylord Community Schools! Welcome Back!