Orleans Southwest Supervisory Union and Craftsbury Schools are thrilled to announce Steve Welch has been selected as athletic and activities director for Craftsbury Schools beginning July 1, 2024.

Welch has over twenty years of experience working in education and coaching. He graduated from Saint Joseph's College in Maine in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Minor in Secondary Education. He earned his Master of Education in Educational Leadership-Athletic Administration from Plymouth State University. Over the last nine years, Welch has worked at White Mountains Regional High School in Whitefield, New Hampshire as a social studies/humanities teacher. In addition to being a classroom teacher, he has also been an advisor for the Youth and Government program, the Life of an Athlete program, and the safety committee for the district. 

Throughout his time as an educator, Welch has also worked as a coach. His coaching career spans all levels, ages, and genders, from elementary and middle school sports to the varsity level, where he has over a decade of experience as a varsity soccer coach. His primary coaching roles include soccer, basketball, and baseball, but he has also had the opportunity to learn and work with a variety of athletic teams throughout his career. 

In addition to teaching and coaching, Steve enjoys the exceptional hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities that northern New England offers. He is also an avid Liverpool F.C. fan. 

Craftsbury Schools principal Lisa McCarthy stated, “We are excited to welcome Steve Welch as the Craftsbury Schools athletic and activities director. Mr. Welch has already jumped right into his new role. His primary goal right now is to effectively connect with and oversee the various teams, grades K-12, so that all coaches and teams have the support necessary to compete each and every day. He is already working collaboratively with the Hazen Union athletic and activities director to ensure that Craftsbury athletes are well supported under our new cooperative sports agreement. We are thrilled to have him onboard and look forward to a great year!”

Welch commented, "I'm looking forward to working with the students, coaches, staff, and community members of Craftsbury Academy to provide the best possible athletic exposure for all involved. I hope to grow the passion and love for athletics and extracurricular activities that will continue to have a long, impactful experience for students throughout their lives.”