Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Karen Gray.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The Gladstone Center for Children and Families (GCCF) stands as a model of what strong, sustained community partnerships can achieve. This multi-use facility reflects deep collaboration between the Gladstone School District, as well as county and state partners, all working together to support children and families in a comprehensive, coordinated way. The GCCF serves children and families in Gladstone as well as all children and families from anywhere in Clackamas County.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Thanks to our partners at Clackamas County, full medical and dental services are available at the Gladstone Center for Children & Families. GCCF was made possible thanks to the 2006 bond, and now we need to pass a replacement bond to ensure that the school district can provide quality educational and social services for the next generation of students and families.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Most recently Dr. Gray served as acting superintendent of the St. Helens School District. Her tenure includes serving as superintendent of the Coos Bay School District, the Parkrose School District in Portland and the Lincoln County School District in Newport, Oregon. While in Parkrose, her ability to maintain excellent relationships with the community helped pass a general obligation bond for $63 million in school construction improvements.
Dr. Gray’s educational background is equally impressive. She earned her doctorate in educational leadership, policy and management from the University of Oregon, where she also holds administrative credentials. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in communicative disorders from Cal State University Fullerton, Dr. Gray began her career in special education before advancing to administrative roles.
Her accolades include being named Oregon Superintendent of the Year (2018), receiving the Spirit of Portland Award (2015), the Oregon Music Administrator of the Year (2023) and earning recognition for her contributions to equity and school improvement statewide.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Dr. Gray’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, innovation and a student-first approach. Her ability to secure resources, build community partnerships and implement data-driven strategies has consistently resulted in improved outcomes for students and schools. Dr. Gray was appointed as the Gladstone School District’s new interim superintendent for the next 16 months, through June of 2027. She expects to fully retire from decades of service in education after this interim appointment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gladstone.k12.or.us/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gladstoneschools/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GladstoneSchoolDistrict
