Crane Schools Superintendent Laurie Doering to Retire, Ending Four Decades of Service

Laurie Doering told the Crane Schools community on December 10 that she intends to retire at the end of the academic year. Doering began with the district in 1983 as a physical education teacher, moved into a variety of roles over the years, was appointed assistant superintendent in 2014, and became superintendent in 2017. Reflecting on her tenure Doering said, "It truly has been an honor working together to improve the lives of all children. I am reminded daily, with much humility and respect, how extraordinarily fortunate I have been to work with such knowledgeable, driven, passionate people and feel immensely fortunate to have had the opportunity to be a part of this exceptional district. Crane is a special place, and I know its brightest days are still ahead."

Doering leaves behind more than a title. Her more than four decades in the district represent accumulated institutional knowledge, longstanding relationships with teachers and staff, and established ties with local organizations that provide school based health services, nutrition programs, counseling, and special education supports. For families already navigating barriers to health care and stability, leadership transitions can affect continuity of services such as school meals, behavioral health referrals, and coordination with county clinics. That makes the coming months a critical time for planning and transparent decision making.

The district will face choices about succession and priorities that shape budget allocations, staffing stability, and program continuity. Community members and public health partners may need to redouble communication with district officials to ensure that the needs of vulnerable students remain centered through the transition. Maintaining access to mental health support, chronic disease management in schools, and equitable resource distribution will be essential to prevent disruptions that disproportionately affect low income students and families.

Doering's announcement is also an opportunity. It invites reflection on long term goals for academic achievement and student well being, and it opens space for community input on leadership that advances educational equity. As Crane Schools moves toward selecting a successor, parents, educators, and health providers in Yuma County will have a stake in ensuring that the district continues to serve all children with stability, compassion, and attention to public health needs.