George Paden’s name is synonymous with dedication and leadership within the Sand Springs School District. His unparalleled career, spanning roles from student to superintendent, coupled with his ongoing advocacy for public education, underscores his lasting impact on the community.
George Paden, a 1957 graduate of Sand Springs High School, has left an indelible mark on the Sand Springs School District. He is the only individual to have served the district in every capacity: student, teacher, principal, administrative assistant, associate superintendent, and superintendent. After 38 years of service, Paden resigned in 2000 but did not retire his commitment to education, continuing as a volunteer mentor at Central Elementary.
Paden earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Oklahoma Baptist University and a Master’s Degree from Oklahoma State University. He and his wife Charlotte raised their two sons, Andy and Todd, in Sand Springs, fostering a deep connection to the community.
His dedication extends beyond the school system. Paden has demonstrated his leadership skills as chairman of the Salvation Army Advisory Council, the Sand Springs Day Springs Villa Advisory Board, and as president of the Sand Springs Rotary Club. In 1988, he served as Rotary District Governor and became a Rotary International Benefactor in 1991. His commitment to excellence was recognized in 1993 with a Profile in Excellence Award from OBU.
Currently, George Paden serves as a textbook consultant for Harcourt School Publishers and remains an active community member. His enduring advocacy for public education and civic involvement continues to inspire those around him.