Catherine Gillach, the associate superintendent of Grand Forks Public Schools, has withdrawn her acceptance of the superintendent position at Hawley Public Schools in Minnesota, citing personal reasons. Gillach informed the Hawley School Board on December 17, 2023, that she would no longer be able to take on the role she had verbally accepted following a series of interviews.
“This was a really difficult decision,” Gillach stated. “But it’s what’s right for my family.” Although she did not officially resign from her position in Grand Forks, she did not clarify whether she would return for the next school year.
Gillach has been part of the Grand Forks district since 2012, having served as the principal of Schroeder Middle School before becoming the associate superintendent in 2018. According to Melissa Bakke, the Communications and Marketing Manager for Grand Forks Public Schools, Gillach remains under contract and will continue to provide leadership 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 noted. “We respect her choice and are glad she’ll continue contributing her leadership within Grand Forks Public Schools.”
The Hawley School Board had voted unanimously, 7-0, in favor of hiring Gillach. Current Hawley Superintendent Phil Jensen stated that Gillach never signed an official contract, and negotiations were ongoing at the time of her withdrawal. Following her decision, the district has reposted the superintendent position and is accepting applications until January 12, 2024.
As the search for a new superintendent continues, the community will be watching closely for updates on the process and any potential candidates.
