Grand Island Public Schools to bring back veteran administrator

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) - A familiar face is returning to the administration building at Grand Island Public Schools.

In a press release, GIPS announced Virgil Harden will return to the district to serve as Chief Financial Officer starting in July of 2023.

Harden served as the GIPS CFO for 21 years from 1999-2021 before stepping away for a couple years. Harden has spent the last two years leading the financial offices of Third City Church in Grand Island.

GIPS Interim Superintendent Matt Fisher said, “Mr. Harden has long been regarded as one of the best school finance leaders across the state. His knowledge and skills will be invaluable as the financial future of the district is being planned. We feel very fortunate to have him rejoin the GIPS team.”

Harden said, “I’m excited to be rejoining the GIPS team in focusing on the great things happening in classrooms for students, their families, and the community! Supporting that work with the rest of the business office team members has always been rewarding.”

Harden replaces Ken Schroeder, who resigned last month to return to Ravenna Public Schools as superintendent.