Dr. Michael Gard
Superintendent, Hardin School Districts 17H & 1
michael.gard@hardin.k12.mt.us
406-665-9300
Dr. Michael J. Gard has served in public education since 2006 and became Superintendent of Hardin School District 17H & 1 in July 2026. In this role, he provides leadership for the district’s academic programs, personnel, operations, finances, and community partnerships while working with the Board of Trustees to support students, employees, and families.
Before joining Hardin, Dr. Gard served the Phoenix Union High School District as a science and Career and Technical Education teacher, assistant principal, Director of Talent, and Director of Transportation. As Director of Talent, he helped lead human resources and employee relations for approximately 3,500 employees. His responsibilities included reviewing employee insurance costs and their effects on district finances and compensation. As healthcare costs increased, he helped the district navigate a reduction in district-funded dependent coverage while balancing fiscal sustainability, employee needs, and transparent communication. This experience gave him firsthand insight into the complex decisions insurance trusts and school districts face when working to provide affordable, competitive, and sustainable benefits. His subsequent leadership of transportation operations and significant operating and capital budgets further strengthened his experience in financial oversight and responsible stewardship of public resources.
Dr. Gard earned a Bachelor of Science from Northern Arizona University and both a Master’s degree and Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Supervision from Arizona State University. He also serves as an adjunct professor in Grand Canyon University’s College of Education. Married for more than 20 years, Dr. Gard and his wife are raising two daughters and currently reside in Hardin, MT. He leads with integrity, collaboration, and careful stewardship and is committed to decisions that support organizational sustainability and the well-being of employees and their families.
BACK TO TEAM