Description

North Crawford School District

District Administrator Search – 2026
Large School Opportunities, Small School Values

The North Crawford School District Board of Education, in partnership with CESA 3, is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as the next District Administrator. This leadership opportunity is grounded in a strong rural community, a clear vision for learning, and a deep commitment to student success.  Applicants should be licensed or show evidence of being licensed by July 1, 2026 by the Wisconsin Department of Instruction as a District Administrator.

District and Community Overview

North Crawford is a rural district serving the Villages of Soldiers Grove, Gays Mills, portions of Mount Sterling, and the surrounding areas. The district reflects strong community values, local pride, and a shared commitment to supporting its schools.

The district operates with an approximate $8 million budget and a revenue limit of just over $6 million. In 2022, the community passed a recurring operational referendum totaling $900,000 over four years, demonstrating continued support for maintaining quality educational programming.

The current school building was constructed in 1992, with an addition completed in 1996. Recently, the district invested approximately $4.5 million in renovations, modernizing several learning and activity spaces. The facility also serves as a community hub, hosting a daycare and fitness center that strengthen connections between the school and the broader community.

Mission and Vision

North Crawford is built on the belief that all are valued members of a learning community. In partnership with families and community members, students, teachers, and staff share responsibility for creating and maintaining a caring and respectful environment that supports learning.

The district is committed to ensuring that each learner demonstrates the ability to:

Work constructively and collaboratively with others 
Communicate effectively 
Take responsibility for their learning 
Evaluate and improve performance 
Identify and solve problems 
Respect individual differences within a diverse community 
Think creatively, critically, and independently 
Apply knowledge to real-life situations 
North Crawford prioritizes a safe, respectful, and supportive environment that is free from drugs, alcohol, and violence.

Leadership Profile

The Board of Education has identified key characteristics and leadership traits desired in the next superintendent. The successful candidate will demonstrate:

A strong commitment to building relationships and maintaining visibility within the school and community 
The ability to communicate clearly, transparently, and consistently with all stakeholders 
Knowledge of school finance, particularly within a rural district context 
A student-centered mindset focused on continuous improvement and accountability 
The ability to lead, support, and develop staff while fostering a positive and collaborative culture 
Strong problem-solving skills and sound decision-making grounded in data and district priorities 
A commitment to respecting and valuing the traditions and expectations of the North Crawford community 

Application Requirements

Candidates are asked to submit the following materials to Dr. Jamie Nutter:  

(Please direct all questions to Dr. Jamie Nutter-608-822-3276  /  jnutter@cesa3.org)

Three (3) letters of recommendation 
Three (3) additional professional references (separate from letter writers) 
A cover letter addressing: 
Leadership purpose 
Why North Crawford 
Priorities for students and staff 
How the candidate fosters trust and builds strong relationships with the Board of Education and the community 
Resume 

Interested candidates should submit all application materials electronically.

Email: jnutter@cesa3.org
Subject Line: North Crawford Search  

Application Timeline

Position Posted: March 27, 2026
Application Deadline: April 11, 2026 at 10:00 PM
Candidate Screening and Reference Checks: April 13–15, 2026
Candidates Presented to Board: April 15, 2026

Interview and Selection Timeline

First Round Interviews: Week of April 27, 2026
Second Round Interviews / Finalists: Week of May 4, 2026
Final Selection (final rounds of interview if required) and Contract Approval: May 6–7, 2026
Transition and Entry Planning: Late May through June 2026
Official Start Date: July 1, 2026 or as negotiated

About the Opportunity

This is an opportunity for a leader who values relationships, understands rural school finance and operations, and is committed to building a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The next District Administrator will play a critical role in strengthening community connections while ensuring high levels of learning and growth for all students.

A competitive salary and benefit package will be offered commensurate with skills and experience.

Learn more about the district: https://www.northcrawford.com/

Requirements

• A strong commitment to building relationships and maintaining visibility within the school and community
• The ability to communicate clearly, transparently, and consistently with all stakeholders
• Knowledge of school finance, particularly within a rural district context 
• A student-centered mindset focused on continuous improvement and accountability
• The ability to lead, support, and develop staff while fostering a positive and collaborative culture
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound decision-making grounded in data and district priorities
• A commitment to respecting and valuing the traditions and expectations of the North Crawford community