Buffalo Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Buffalo Public Schools has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, finance, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Buffalo Public Schools provides a comprehensive range of learning opportunities, shaping the future of students across New York.

Leadership Roles at Buffalo Public Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - James Barnes
  • Board President - Kathy Evans-Brown
  • Chief of Staff - Taisha St. Jean
  • Chief Technology Officer - Julianna Sciolino
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Clayton Hoyt
  • Superintendent - Kriner Cash
  • James Barnes - Chief Financial Officer

    James Barnes, the Chief Financial Officer at Buffalo Public Schools, directs the fiscal health and financial planning for the entire district. Overseeing budget allocation, financial reporting, and resource management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures fiscal responsibility across all operations, including adult education and charter schools. This vital role involves developing sound financial strategies to support educational programs and infrastructure investments. By managing expenditures and optimizing revenue streams, James Barnes directly contributes to the sustainable operation of Buffalo Public Schools. Ultimately, Barnes safeguards the district's financial integrity, enabling the effective delivery of educational services and long-term strategic growth.

    Kathy Evans-Brown - Board President

    Kathy Evans-Brown, the Board President at Buffalo Public Schools, presides over the governing board, providing strategic oversight and fiduciary responsibility for the district. Leading board meetings and ensuring adherence to governance policies, the Board President guides the collective decision-making process. This leadership position involves championing the district's mission and advocating for the educational needs of the Buffalo community. By fostering collaboration between the board and the Superintendent, Kathy Evans-Brown ensures effective leadership and accountability. Ultimately, Evans-Brown upholds the highest standards of governance, driving the district's commitment to providing quality education and fostering student success across all programs.

    Taisha St. Jean - Chief of Staff

    Taisha St. Jean, the Chief of Staff at Buffalo Public Schools, manages the strategic initiatives and operational efficiency of the Superintendent's office. Overseeing key projects and ensuring seamless communication across departments, the Chief of Staff facilitates the execution of district-wide goals. This critical role involves coordinating efforts in areas such as adult education and innovative high schools, directly supporting the Superintendent's agenda. By streamlining administrative processes and driving cross-functional collaboration, Taisha St. Jean enhances the overall effectiveness of the leadership team. Ultimately, St. Jean ensures that the district's resources and efforts are strategically aligned to achieve its educational objectives and serve the Buffalo community.

    Julianna Sciolino - Chief Technology Officer

    Julianna Sciolino, the Chief Technology Officer at Buffalo Public Schools, architects the district's technology infrastructure and digital learning strategies. Overseeing the implementation and maintenance of all technological systems, the Chief Technology Officer ensures robust and secure IT operations. This leadership position involves driving innovation in educational technology, supporting initiatives like innovative high schools and advanced learning platforms. By managing the integration of new technologies and providing essential digital resources, Julianna Sciolino directly enhances the learning experience for students and educators. Ultimately, Sciolino ensures that Buffalo Public Schools remains at the forefront of technological advancement in education, supporting academic goals through reliable and cutting-edge solutions.

    Clayton Hoyt - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Clayton Hoyt, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Buffalo Public Schools, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic priorities and managing daily operations. Overseeing specific projects and initiatives, the Deputy Chief of Staff ensures efficient workflow and effective communication within the leadership team. This role involves coordinating efforts related to the district's diverse offerings, such as home schooling support and innovative high schools. By assisting in the implementation of key policies and programs, Clayton Hoyt directly contributes to the smooth functioning of the Superintendent's office. Ultimately, Hoyt plays a crucial part in advancing the district's mission by ensuring operational excellence and supporting strategic decision-making.

    Kriner Cash - Superintendent

    Kriner Cash, the Superintendent at Buffalo Public Schools, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the district. Overseeing all educational programs and administrative functions, the Superintendent ensures alignment with the district's mission to provide comprehensive learning opportunities. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in curriculum development and implementing effective pedagogical approaches across all school levels. By driving initiatives in adult education, charter schools, and home schooling support, Kriner Cash directly impacts the educational landscape of Buffalo. Ultimately, Cash secures the district's commitment to academic achievement and student success, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to support diverse educational pathways.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Buffalo Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Buffalo Public Schools?
    Buffalo Public Schools is led by James Barnes (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kathy Evans-Brown (Board President) and Taisha St. Jean (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Buffalo Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Buffalo Public Schools includes leaders such as James Barnes (Chief Financial Officer), Kathy Evans-Brown (Board President), Taisha St. Jean (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Buffalo Public Schools have?
    Buffalo Public Schools has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Buffalo Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Buffalo Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Board President, Chief of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Deputy Chief of Staff.