Dr. Karen Fischer Gray has been appointed as the Gladstone School District’s new interim superintendent for the next 16 months, through June of 2027.
The Gladstone School Board chose Dr. Gray for this role because she brings over three decades of leadership, innovation and dedication to public education, spanning roles as a special education teacher, administrator and superintendent in districts across Oregon and California.
Board Chair Donna Diggs noted that Dr. Gray brings a wealth of experience to Gladstone, along with a strong record of leadership in public education.
“Her ability to lead with clarity, stability, a focus on student success and deep understanding of district operations makes her exceptionally well suited for this role,” Diggs said. “The Board looks forward to partnering with Dr. Gray over the next 16 months in support of our students, staff and community. She is a tremendous fit to serve as Gladstone’s interim superintendent during this important time.”
Dr. Gray will have the opportunity to work with current Gladstone Superintendent Jeremiah Patterson over the next couple of weeks to ensure continuity of leadership this school year.
“Dr. Gray's addition to the Gladstone School District team brings me great comfort and hope for the students, educators and families we serve,” Patterson said. “Her level of experience and track record of success are just what is needed for the immediate future. I look forward to working alongside Dr. Gray to ensure a smooth transition.”
Dr. Gray’s extensive career highlights her passion for student success and equity. She has led transformative initiatives in school improvement, professional learning communities and culturally inclusive leadership.
“I am very excited to work with the Gladstone School District,” Dr. Gray said. “I have enjoyed wonderful experiences with Gladstone during my tenure as a superintendent in Portland such as having a solid professional relationship with their longtime superintendent, visiting the high school when we were designing our new middle school as well as learning about how we can better serve our district’s preschool children and families. I can’t wait to meet everyone and build a highly collaborative and effective district/community team.”
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.
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.