A former Oconee County Schools chief will serve as interim superintendent following the forthcoming departure of Jason Branch, who has held the position since 2012.Debra Harden will begin work July 1 and serve through the end of the year or until a new superintendent is hired. Harden served as district superintendent from 1993 to 1999.
Dr. Harden, the 1999 Georgia School Superintendent of the Year, said she was honored to be asked to serve Oconee County through its exceptional school district. “I am looking forward to working alongside the Board, the leadership team, our dedicated faculty and staff, and the entire community. I am excited to move forward with the current goals. The focus is always on how best to advance student success, and I am eager to contribute to that mission.”
The Board of Education voted last week to engage the services of Georgia Leadership Associates (GLA) to assist in the search for a new superintendent.
A varied career
“The Board of Education is thrilled to welcome Dr. Harden back to serve as the interim Superintendent,” Chair Michael Ransom said. “Her previous experience leading our district and her deep understanding of our community means she will provide a steady hand during this important transition. The Board has full confidence that she will ensure the continuity of our goals and the continued success of Oconee County Schools.”
Dr. Harden has worked as a consultant to school leaders since 2016. She specializes in leadership coaching, followership, communication, and difficult conversations. She also served as the Director of Professional Development for the Georgia School Superintendents Association from 2000-2016. In this role, she mentored both sitting and aspiring superintendents.
Dr. Harden’s association with Oconee County Schools began in 1978 when she served for five years as the Director of Special Education. During her tenure as superintendent, she led a strategic plan that resulted in the building of several new schools, including Malcom Bridge Elementary and Middle School. Dr. Harden was inducted into the OCS Hall of Fame in 2009.
Harden additionally held teaching and leadership positions in Clarke, Barrow, Morgan, and Lowndes counties.
