Steve Carlson brings 24 years of experience in leadership, with 18 years as the principal of Grace B. Wilson Elementary and Judy Nelson Elementary. Carlson started as a math teacher at Chinle High School in 1988 for five years. He then moved to teach at Kirtland Central High School for seven years and later served as an assistant principal for five years at Mesa Alta Junior High School. Mr. Carlson has a Master's Degree in Educational Administration from New Mexico State University.

"I am honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead the students, staff, and community of the Shiprock, Newcomb and Kirtland areas. My overarching goal is to make Central Consolidated School District a place where students are safe, comfortable and challenged in their learning environment, and where staff members feel valued and respected as they teach our community’s leaders of tomorrow." - Steve Carlson, Superintendent of CCSD

The board of education approved to for an extended one-year contract to Steve Carlson for the school year 2024 through 2026.