I hope you had a great summer!  Welcome to all of our new and returning students. We are excited to have you return to school! 

I wanted to introduce myself as the new Principal of Douglas R. Welch High School. My name is Mrs. Thorlund, some of you may have seen me last year as my office was located inside the Welch main office. I earned both my Undergraduate and Masters degree from Grand Valley State University. My previous education experience includes six years as a classroom teacher, one year as an Instructional Consultation Team Facilitator, and one year as the Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) Coordinator for Ionia Public Schools. I am excited to continue my work as the MTSS Coordinator, but also as the Principal of Welch! 

I have been married for 4 years to my husband Eric. We have two children, Logan will be two years old in November and Emma will be 2 months old this month! 

This school year will look a little different due to COVID-19, but I am confident we will make the necessary adjustments in order to set our students up for success.! If you have any questions or concerns at any point throughout the school year please contact me. 

Included in this mailing is a health screening form that all parents must complete and return to the Welch Main Office prior to or on the first day of school.

I look forward to meeting you and am excited to begin an excellent school year! 

Mrs. Alicia Thorlund 
Principal, Douglas R. Welch High School 
athorlund@ioniaschools.org