Dear Green Bear Families:

This is a difficult letter to write. As many of you know, my family and I suffered the unimaginable loss of our daughter, Charley, 9 months ago to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Not a moment goes by that we do not feel the ache of her absence. Grief changes you—it reshapes your priorities, your purpose, and your heart in ways you could never expect.

After deep reflection, I have come to the difficult realization that I need to step away from my role as the principal of OHES. The love I have for your kids, the staff, and the families of Ottawa Hills has not wavered, but my purpose at this time in my life has shifted. In the midst of our grief, my wife and I have held tightly to Charley’s last words: “I can do hard things.” It has become a reminder that even in the most painful chapters of life, we sometimes choose a new path–-and sometimes a new path chooses us. 

With that spirit in mind, my wife and I have devoted ourselves to honoring Charley’s legacy through our Tiny Hooves Farm nonprofit with our friends. It is a place where we feel Charley every day. Tiny Hooves Farm is dedicated to supporting individuals and families in the grief community—offering comfort, connection, and compassion to other families navigating loss. This mission has become deeply personal for us, and it is where our hearts are being pulled.

Serving as your child’s principal has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life. Watching your children learn, laugh, grow, and discover their strengths has given me purpose and joy every single day. This Village has become a second family to me, and I will forever be grateful for your trust, partnership, and support. I am honored that the Ottawa Hills Schools Foundation is currently raising money to build a new elementary playground in Charley’s name.

As I begin FMLA leave on December 1st, the district has decided that Mrs. Rose Gaiffe will carry forward the positivity of this school year as she returns to the role of full-time principal.  Rose is a compassionate, steady, and student-centered leader, and I have complete confidence in her ability to guide our school with clarity and care. She will serve in this role while the district opens an official search for a new permanent principal who will take the helm beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.

Thank you for holding my family in your thoughts and for allowing me space to heal, reflect, and to honor my daughter’s legacy in meaningful ways. I carry hope that, in time, I will find renewed strength to help others just as you have helped me.

Sincerely,

Dr. Bauer