From USD 428
USD 428 is pleased to announce the addition of Shelby Zuniga as the district’s new accountant. A Great Bend native and proud graduate of Great Bend High School, Zuniga brings a wealth of financial expertise and leadership experience to her new role.
Zuniga is a 1998 graduate of GBHS and earned an Associate of Science degree from Barton Community College in 2000. She went on to complete a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Fort Hays State University in 2002 and later earned her Master of Professional Accountancy from the University of Texas–Permian Basin in 2012. In 2016, she achieved her Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
Her professional career spans over 20 years of experience in government and nonprofit accounting. Zuniga and her husband, Juan, spent 11 years in Midland, Texas, where she worked for the city of Midland’s Finance Department. The majority of that time, she served as accounting manager, overseeing financial operations and leading the annual audit process. In her final year with the city, she worked as the internal auditor.
After returning to Great Bend in 2019, Zuniga joined Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc. as chief financial officer. In 2021, she was appointed interim executive director and was later named executive director, a position she held until joining USD 428 in September.
“The District Accountant position at USD 428 fits nicely with my skill set and affords me the opportunity to serve the district where I was educated and where my own kids will be educated,” said Zuniga. “I’ve always been proud to be a Great Bend Panther!”
John Popp, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations, welcomed Zuniga to the district team. “Shelby’s expertise in accounting and proven leadership in both government and nonprofit settings make her an excellent fit for USD 428,” Popp said. “Her commitment to accuracy, transparency, and service will benefit our schools, staff, and community.”
Outside of work, Zuniga and her husband, Juan, enjoy an active family life with their twin daughters, Isabella and Sophia, who attend Little Panthers Preschool. The family is involved in First Christian Church, enjoys working on their old cars, spending time outdoors, and cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Please join USD 428 in welcoming Shelby Zuniga to her new role as District Accountant.
About Great Bend Public Schools
USD 428 The mission of Great Bend Public Schools - USD 428 is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment where all
are empowered to become responsible citizens and lifelong learners in an ever-changing world. Learn more about our district by visiting GreatBendSchools.net.