Harvard Community Unit School District 50 announces that Assistant Superintendent Dr. Vicki Larson will be concluding her service to the district at the end of the current academic year to assume the role of Superintendent at Prairie Grove School District 46. Dr. Larson has served District 50 with distinction since 2018, leaving a lasting impact on the district through her leadership, commitment to students and staff, and dedication to educational excellence.
"Dr. Larson's contributions to Harvard CUSD 50 have been transformative," said Superintendent Dr. Brandon C. White. "Her approach to recruitment and retention, her passion for instructional excellence, and her genuine care for our school community have elevated the district by ensuring internal systems were developed and implemented to lead to better outcomes for all students. While she will be greatly missed, we are grateful for the strong foundation she has built which will continue to benefit our students and staff for years to come."
During her tenure, Dr. Larson has positioned Harvard CUSD 50 as a leader in educator recruitment and retention. Under her guidance, the district received both state and national recognition, including the Illinois Branding Award from the Illinois Association of School Personnel Administrators (IASPA). Her innovative work in district branding and recruitment strategies has been featured in professional publications and presented at conferences across the nation. She also established modernized hiring systems that increased efficiency and equity across recruitment and personnel processes, ensuring sustainable practices that will support the district for years to come.
Dr. Larson's impact extends beyond recruitment. She has championed the Science of Reading professional development, established comprehensive curriculum review processes, and expanded the district's mentor program to better support new teachers. Her efforts in building international hiring initiatives and sustainable talent pipelines have strengthened Harvard's nationally recognized Dual Language Program, ensuring students have access to highly qualified bilingual educators.
A passionate advocate for positive workplace culture, Dr. Larson brought her expertise as a Certified Orange Frog and Happiness Advantage trainer to District 50, fostering an environment where staff can thrive. Her collaborative leadership style and commitment to building strong relationships have contributed to the district being recognized for three consecutive years as a Best School District to Work in McHenry County.
Beyond the district, Dr. Larson serves the community through her work on the Board of Directors for the United Way of McHenry County and was honored with the McHenry County Spotlight Award for her outstanding service.
Harvard CUSD 50 extends its deepest thanks to Dr. Vicki Larson for her years of exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the students, staff, and families of our community.