Grand Forks Associate Superintendent Withdraws from Hawley Role

Catherine Gillach, the Associate Superintendent of Grand Forks Public Schools, has decided to withdraw from her acceptance of the superintendent position at Hawley Public Schools. Gillach announced her decision on December 17, 2023, citing personal reasons for her choice.

In a statement, Gillach described her decision as “really difficult,” emphasizing that it was made with her family’s best interests in mind. This withdrawal comes after she had previously accepted the role in Hawley, following multiple rounds of interviews that culminated in a unanimous vote from the Hawley School Board in her favor.

Gillach has been a part of the Grand Forks district since 2012, serving initially as the principal of Schroeder Middle School before stepping into her current role as associate superintendent in 2018. She clarified that she never officially resigned from her position with Grand Forks, although she did not confirm her plans for the next school year.

Reaction from School Officials

Melissa Bakke, Communications and Marketing Manager for Grand Forks Public Schools, expressed support for Gillach’s decision in an email. “Catherine’s decision to withdraw from the Hawley position reflects her careful consideration of what’s best for her and her professional path,” Bakke stated. “We respect her choice and are glad she’ll continue contributing her leadership within Grand Forks Public Schools.”

The Hawley School Board is now seeking a new candidate for the superintendent position, as current superintendent Phil Jensen confirmed that Gillach had not yet signed an official contract before her withdrawal. Negotiations were ongoing at the time she informed the board of her decision.

The Hawley district has reposted the open superintendent position and is accepting applications until January 12, 2024. The search for a suitable candidate continues as the board aims to fill the vacancy promptly.