Superintendent

My name is Jim Cracraft, and I am very excited to begin our journey together as the Superintendent of Gaylord Community Schools. I would like to thank Superintendent Brian Pearson for his support over the past several weeks as I have begun learning more about the school district and transitioning into a new leadership role. I would also like to thank the Board of Education, administration, staff, students, and families for the warm welcome I have received thus far. I have enjoyed learning about your community and have spent the last several weeks exploring and becoming more familiar with Gaylord.  I am looking forward to leading the outstanding staff at Gaylord Community Schools and have been very impressed with the quality of programming and learning opportunities for all students.

On a personal note, my wife Holly and I have been married for thirty-two years and have three grown children, Nick, Ben, and Grace. With family in the area, we have had the pleasure of visiting northern Michigan for many years.  To reside and work in Gaylord is an opportunity we have looked forward to for a long time.

I have just completed my thirty fourth year in education. I began my career with the Starr Commonwealth Schools in Albion, Michigan, where I worked as a counselor and special education teacher for nearly eight years. I also served as a teacher, coach, and building administrator for twenty-one years with Northville Public Schools. The past six years, I have led as the Superintendent of Clinton Community Schools. I enjoy working on behalf of all students and families and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to continue to provide endless opportunities for our students and families.

The last several weeks have been busy, and the district team and I are now focusing on providing a positive start to the 2022-2023 school year. The challenges that the community and district have faced together over the past two years have created the opportunity to grow, build on our strengths, and return to the important work of teaching and learning. I believe in our students, families, and their ability to overcome challenges and develop as resilient, lifelong learners. I am always excited about the endless possibilities each new school year will bring for our students!

I look forward to meeting you in person during the next few weeks.  I  invite you to join me for “Coffee and Conversation”  beginning Monday, October 10, 2022 at the Gaylord Community Schools Board of Education office!

Go Blue Devils!