School leader to step down next year

Grand Coulee Dam School District Superintendent Dennis Carlson submitted his letter of resignation Monday night to the school board. He will remain until his current contract expires June 30, 2016.

In his letter, Carlson stated that “it has been an incredible journey where I have met and worked with some incredible and dedicated people to change the face of our school and positively impact our community.”

When Dr. Carlson came to the district, he had only planned to be here a short time. But a massive building project got in the way, and, in addition to his regular duties, Carlson took on the task of putting all three schools into one massive, new complex.

The new school complex is in its second year.

“It is time in my life and career to step aside and allow the school community to select a new leader for the district who can inspire our students, staff and community to reach the potential that exists within the district,” Carlson stated.

While in the district, Carlson, who holds a doctorate in education, has been mentor to all of the district’s administrators.

Carlson has driven from his home in Pateros much of the time he has been superintendent and only recently moved into a newly-constructed house in the Northshore Acres area.