Leadership Overview
Broward County Public Schools has 8 executives leading key functions including administration, operations, information technology, human resources, finance, communications, parent engagement, and chapter leadership.
Focused on academic excellence and student achievement, Broward County Public Schools delivers comprehensive educational programs across Florida while fostering inclusive learning environments for diverse student populations.
Focused on academic excellence and student achievement, Broward County Public Schools delivers comprehensive educational programs across Florida while fostering inclusive learning environments for diverse student populations.
Leadership Roles at Broward County Public Schools
Erum Motiwala - Chief Financial Officer, Cpa
Erum Motiwala, the Chief Financial Officer, Cpa at Broward County Public Schools, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the district. Overseeing financial planning, accounting, and audit processes, the Chief Financial Officer, Cpa ensures that resources are allocated effectively to support educational programs and student achievement. Erum Motiwala directs the development of long-term financial strategies that align with the district's mission of providing comprehensive learning opportunities. By maintaining rigorous fiscal controls and transparency, the Chief Financial Officer, Cpa secures the financial stability necessary for ongoing innovation and infrastructure investment. This role involves collaborating with the Board and other executive leaders to prioritize funding for critical academic and extracurricular initiatives. Motiwala monitors economic trends and legislative changes to optimize revenue streams and manage expenditures. Through precise financial oversight, the Chief Financial Officer, Cpa supports the district's ability to deliver high-quality education to students from pre-kindergarten through grade twelve.
Wanda Paul - Chief Operating Officer
Wanda Paul, the Chief Operating Officer at Broward County Public Schools, manages the vast physical and logistical infrastructure required to support a large-scale educational district. Overseeing facilities, transportation, and maintenance services, the Chief of Operating Officer ensures that all learning environments remain safe, functional, and conducive to student success. Wanda Paul directs the allocation of resources to optimize school operations across the region, balancing immediate needs with long-term infrastructure planning. By implementing efficient management systems, the Chief Operating Officer reduces overhead costs while improving service delivery for students and staff. This leadership role requires constant coordination with external vendors and internal departments to maintain high standards of operational performance. Paul monitors district-wide logistics to support academic programs, ensuring that every school receives the necessary support to thrive. Through strategic planning and rigorous oversight, the Chief Operating Officer secures the foundational stability required for educational innovation and growth.
Erin Marvasti - PTA President
Erin Marvasti, the PTA President at Broward County Public Schools, leads the parent-teacher association in advocating for student needs and enhancing school-community partnerships. Overseeing volunteer initiatives and fundraising efforts, the PTA President ensures that families remain actively involved in the educational process. Erin Marvasti coordinates with school leadership to support extracurricular activities and academic programs that enrich the student experience. By facilitating open dialogue between parents and administrators, the PTA President helps create inclusive learning environments that reflect the values of the community. This role involves organizing events and resources that directly benefit students from pre-kindergarten through grade twelve. Marvasti drives engagement strategies to increase parent participation, ensuring that the collective voice of families influences district priorities. Through dedicated leadership, the PTA President strengthens the support network surrounding students, fostering a collaborative culture that promotes personal growth and academic achievement across the entire district.
Shawn Cerra - Chapter President
Shawn Cerra, the Chapter President at Broward County Public Schools, manages the professional interests and advocacy efforts for specific educational groups within the district. Overseeing the representation of members, the Chapter President ensures that professional standards and working conditions remain conducive to high-quality instruction. Shawn Cerra facilitates communication between the membership and district leadership, negotiating policies that support the professional development and well-being of educators. By organizing collaborative forums and advocacy campaigns, the Chapter President drives initiatives that improve the overall educational climate. This role involves addressing member concerns and promoting best practices in teaching and administration. Cerra monitors district-wide changes to ensure that the interests of the chapter align with the broader goals of student success and academic excellence. Through active leadership and representation, the Chapter President contributes to the stability and effectiveness of the workforce, ensuring that the district continues to provide comprehensive educational programs.
Brenda Emerson-Alford - Chief of Staff
Brenda Emerson-Alford, the Chief of Staff at Broward County Public Schools, coordinates high-level administrative functions to ensure alignment with district goals. Overseeing internal communications and executive workflows, the Chief of Staff facilitates seamless collaboration between departments to support the broader mission of student achievement. Brenda Emerson-Alford manages complex projects that require cross-functional cooperation, ensuring that district initiatives remain on schedule and within scope. By streamlining operational processes, the Chief of Staff enhances the efficiency of the leadership team. This role involves constant interaction with various stakeholders to maintain organizational focus on academic growth and community engagement. Through rigorous oversight of administrative priorities, the Chief of Staff drives the implementation of strategic policies across the district. Emerson-Alford maintains a clear vision for operational excellence, ensuring that every department contributes effectively to the success of students from pre-kindergarten through grade twelve.
Debra Connelly - Executive Secretary To Doctor Joe Phillips, Chief Information Officer
Debra Connelly, the Executive Secretary To Doctor Joe Phillips, Chief Information Officer at Broward County Public Schools, manages the administrative operations for the technology department. Overseeing scheduling, documentation, and communication flows, the Executive Secretary To Doctor Joe Phillips, Chief Information Officer ensures that the technology leadership team maintains focus on digital transformation initiatives. Debra Connelly coordinates critical meetings and project timelines, facilitating the integration of modern educational tools into classrooms across the district. By organizing complex data and correspondence, the Executive Secretary To Doctor Joe Phillips, Chief Information Officer enables the technology department to execute strategic goals efficiently. This role involves managing sensitive information and supporting the implementation of secure, scalable IT infrastructure. Connelly maintains high standards of professional support, ensuring that the Chief Information Officer remains effective in driving technological advancements. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Executive Secretary To Doctor Joe Phillips, Chief Information Officer supports the district's commitment to preparing students for a digital future.
Ernie Lozano - Chief Human Resources Officer
Ernie Lozano, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Broward County Public Schools, directs talent acquisition, retention, and professional development strategies for the entire district. Overseeing the recruitment of high-quality educators and support staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the district's commitment to academic excellence. Ernie Lozano manages labor relations, benefits administration, and performance management systems to foster a positive and productive work environment. By implementing comprehensive training programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the ongoing growth of staff members, directly impacting student outcomes. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory requirements while promoting diversity and inclusion across all schools. Lozano monitors workforce trends to anticipate staffing needs, ensuring that every classroom has access to qualified professionals. Through strategic human capital management, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives organizational stability and supports the long-term success of the entire educational community.
Amy Bennett - Chief Communications Officer
Amy Bennett, the Chief Communications Officer at Broward County Public Schools, directs the district's public relations, media strategy, and community engagement efforts. Overseeing the dissemination of information to families, staff, and the public, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that the district's mission and achievements remain transparent and accessible. Amy Bennett manages crisis communications and brand identity, fostering trust and collaboration between the school system and the broader community. By developing targeted messaging campaigns, the Chief Communications Officer highlights the diverse academic, career, and arts opportunities available to students. This leadership role involves coordinating with internal departments to ensure consistent communication across all platforms. Bennett monitors public sentiment and media coverage to proactively address concerns and celebrate successes. Through strategic outreach and effective storytelling, the Chief Communications Officer strengthens the partnership between the district and its stakeholders, ultimately supporting the growth and success of every student.