Dade County High School Assistant Principal Vic Grider Placed on Leave Amid Ongoing Investigation
TRENTON, Ga. — Dade County High School Assistant Principal Vic Grider has been placed on leave as the investigation involving former Principal Joseph “Brent” Cooper continues, according to a letter released Monday, November 9, by Dade County Schools Superintendent Josh Ingle.
In the letter addressed to families and staff, Ingle announced the administrative change and confirmed that Chastity Steadman will oversee daily operations at Dade County High School until further notice.
“As a result of the ongoing investigation involving former Dade County High School Principal Mr. Brent Cooper, DCHS Assistant Principal Vic Grider has been placed on leave,” Ingle wrote.
The superintendent did not provide additional details about the decision to place Grider on leave, including whether the leave is paid or unpaid.
The announcement does not indicate that Grider has been charged with any crime or specify any allegations against him.
Chastity Steadman to Oversee School Operations
According to Ingle, Steadman will assume responsibility for the school’s daily operations, with additional assistance from district-level personnel.
“Our focus remains on providing a safe and supportive environment for students and staff,” Ingle stated.
The leadership change comes as the school system continues responding to the investigation involving Cooper, who was arrested in late October on two counts of improper sexual contact by an employee or agent.
Following Cooper’s arrest, the Dade County Board of Education accepted his resignation during a called meeting on October 30.
Grider and Steadman had previously been identified as providing leadership and support at the high school following Cooper’s departure.
Investigation Remains Active
Ingle confirmed that Dade County Schools will continue cooperating with law enforcement while the investigation remains active.
“Dade County Schools will continue to work closely with law enforcement as this remains an active investigation,” Ingle wrote.
The school system is also encouraging anyone who may have information relevant to the investigation to contact authorities.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to contact the Dade County Sheriff’s Office at 706-657-3233.
The superintendent’s November 9 letter did not provide a timeline for the investigation or indicate how long Grider may remain on leave.
