Doctor Bill Crandall
Doctor Bill Crandall is looking forward to his new position as superintendent of Cook County Schools – ISD 166. Crandall, who is also the superintendent of the Lake Superior School District, will replace Superintendent Beth Schwarz on July 1, 2016.
After growing up in Pennsylvania and attending his last two years of high school in Albert Lea, Minnesota, Crandall pursued his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). He has been a resident of the North Shore since 1981.
It was at UMD where he met his wife from Two Harbors. They now reside in Knife River. Mrs Crandall is a teacher in the St. Louis County School District. Their two adult children are currently attending college and graduate school. Crandall and his wife enjoy spending time on the Superior Hiking Trail. He is also an avid alpine skier and a former ski coach.
Crandall obtained his master’s degree in special education at the University of Wisconsin-Superior and later his doctorate in educational leadership through Capella University in Minneapolis. In addition to his superintendent license, he holds licensure as a kindergarten through grade 12 principal and a director of special education.
While pursuing his biology degree and considering a career in veterinary medicine he discovered his love for teaching children. He eventually became a science teacher and spent two years teaching in Hawaii.
While at UMD he worked for Northwoods Childrens Services. It was there that he found he worked well with that population and developed his interest in special education.
Once settled into his new position Crandall intends to work at least one day a week in Cook County. Near the beginning of the year he will be present more often as he becomes acquainted with the staff and students.
The use of the new telepresence system will be very beneficial in any long distance management of the districts. The system is available at the facilities in Grand Marais, Silver Bay and Two Harbors. Crandall also sees benefit in its use for collaboration among teachers when discussing curriculums.
Crandall noted the similarities of travel issues that face both districts. Both have many long bus routes and tough winters to contend with. Combined, the two districts would be one of the 20 largest in the continental United States.
Both localities also have similar job options for consideration by students wanting to remain in the area upon graduation. The new industrial arts potential in Grand Marais is a positive step in that direction. Crandall sits on the board of the Carl Perkins Consortium which has been involved in funding items for local industrial arts programming.
Crandall points to weaknesses facing ISD 166 as a declining enrollment and budget issues threatening the loss of teachers. As positives he sees good teachers and staff. He summed up saying, “I am looking forward to meeting the staff and kids and digging in.”
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