Grand Forks Public Schools Associate Superintendent Catherine Gillach has announced her decision to withdraw from the superintendent position at Hawley Public Schools, citing personal reasons. Gillach communicated her decision to the Hawley School Board on December 17, 2023, after having verbally accepted the role earlier.
“It was a really difficult decision,” Gillach stated, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing her family. Although she has not formally resigned from her role at Grand Forks, she did not clarify whether she plans to return for the next school year. Gillach has been part of the Grand Forks district since 2012, initially serving as the principal of Schroeder Middle School before becoming associate superintendent in 2018.
In a statement, Melissa Bakke, Communications and Marketing Manager for Grand Forks Public Schools, confirmed that Gillach remains under contract and will continue her leadership role within the district. “Catherine’s decision to withdraw from the Hawley position reflects her careful consideration of what’s best for her and her professional path,” Bakke wrote. “We respect her choice and are glad she’ll continue contributing her leadership within Grand Forks Public Schools.”
Gillach had been selected for the Hawley superintendent position following a series of interviews, with the Hawley School Board unanimously voting 7-0 in her favor. Current Hawley Superintendent Phil Jensen noted that Gillach never signed an official contract, as negotiations were still underway at the time of her withdrawal. In light of her decision, the Hawley School District has reposted the superintendent position and is accepting applications until January 12, 2024.
This development highlights the ongoing challenges in educational leadership transitions, as districts seek to fill vital roles while candidates navigate personal and professional considerations. Gillach’s decision underscores the importance of aligning career opportunities with personal circumstances, a factor that many professionals weigh heavily when making career moves.
