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Monday, November 9, 2026Nov 9

Dade County High suspends assistant principal Vic Grider amid investigation into former principal

Staff Photo by Seth Carpenter/ A sign for Dade County Schools is seen as a bus leaves Dade County High School in Trenton, Ga. on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026. Law enforcement arrested Dade County High School Principal Brent Cooper at the school around noon Thursday. Staff file photo / Dade County High School has suspended assistant principal Vic Grider.

Dade County High School assistant principal Vic Grider has been placed on leave, according to a statement released by school superintendent Josh Ingle, which was sent to the families of students Monday.

Although the reason for the decision was not specified, Ingle did confirm it was part of the ongoing investigation into former principal Brent Cooper, who has been charged with rape, child molestation and aggravated sexual battery.

Currently, assistant principal Chastity Steadman will oversee daily school operations, with additional support from district-level staff.

Vic Grider

“Dade County schools will continue to work closely with law enforcement as this remains an active investigation,” Ingle said in the statement.

Anyone with information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact Dade County Sheriff’s Office at 706-657-3233.