Dr. Gerald D. Dawkins, Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Gerald D. Dawkins became Superintendent of Schools
for the School District of the City of Saginaw on July 1,
2001. A native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Mr. Dawkins
spent his entire professional career, prior to coming to
Saginaw, in the Grand Rapids Public Schools, serving in a
variety of assignments from teacher to central office
administration.

During his first two years with the School District of the City
of Saginaw, Dr. Dawkins earned high marks for his performance from Saginaw parents, students and community groups, and in editorials in the Saginaw News. He has received three outstanding evaluations from the Saginaw Board of Education.

During his first three years as Superintendent, Dr. Dawkins:

• Opened a K-8 MicroSociety School—the Arthur Eddy Academy.
• Reorganized the district’s administrative staff with a focus on performance, academic achievement and accountability.
• Enhanced school safety and security.
• Improved customer service and communications with parents and the community.
• Instituted a new budgeting process that ties funding to school quality.
• Led the successful millage renewal effort that resulted in a 90% yes vote.
• Led the successful bond issue campaign that resulted in the approval of a $70 million facilities bond. The bond was approved in August, 2004.
• Initiated single gender classes at Longfellow and Webber Elementary Schools.
• Initiated ninth grade academies at Arthur Hill High School and Saginaw High School to help improve the social adjustment and academic performance of freshmen.

Dr. Dawkins received the 2003 “Champions of Justice” Award from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church for his “overwhelming concern for the young people of Saginaw” and his commitment to the Saginaw community.

Dr. Dawkins began his career with the Grand Rapids Public Schools in 1973 as a teacher and counselor. He held administrative positions in career education, student services, the Grand Rapids Jobs Corps, applied technology and community outreach prior to being named Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services. He also served as Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services and as Chief of Staff/Deputy Superintendent.

Dr. Dawkins, a U.S Marine Corps veteran, is a graduate of Knoxville College, Knoxville, Tennessee, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science. He holds a Master of Arts in Counseling and Personnel from Western Michigan University.

Dr. Dawkins and his wife, Gwen, have two daughters—Kanika and Kamaria.         top