Duval County Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

Kristi Ephriam, the Chief Financial Officer at Duval County Public Schools, directs the comprehensive financial management and fiscal strategy for the district. Ephriam oversees budgeting, accounting, payroll, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with all regulatory requirements. This position involves managing a multi-million dollar budget, allocating resources effectively to support educational programs and operational needs. By developing sound financial policies and procedures, Kristi Ephriam safeguards the district's assets and promotes long-term financial stability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include securing funding, managing investments, and providing critical financial insights to guide strategic decision-making. Ephriam's expertise ensures that financial resources are maximized to support the district's core mission of student education and development.

James Culbert, the Chief Operating Officer at Duval County Public Schools, manages the daily operational infrastructure supporting over 120,000 students and 10,000 employees. Culbert directs critical functions including transportation, facilities management, and food services, ensuring seamless delivery of essential student support systems. This role involves optimizing logistical operations and maintaining high standards for safety and efficiency across all school sites and district facilities. By overseeing the maintenance and upgrade of physical assets, James Culbert ensures a conducive learning environment. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic focus also encompasses managing vendor relationships and implementing cost-effective solutions to enhance service delivery. Culbert's leadership drives operational excellence, directly contributing to the district's ability to provide a stable and supportive educational experience.

David Sundstrom, the Chief of Staff at Duval County Public Schools, directs strategic planning and cross-departmental alignment to advance the district's educational mission. Sundstrom oversees the implementation of key initiatives, ensuring operational efficiency and effective resource allocation across academic and support services. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the Superintendent and other senior leaders to translate policy into actionable programs. By managing critical projects and fostering communication between administrative offices and school sites, David Sundstrom ensures that district-wide goals are met with precision and foresight. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities extend to advising on organizational structure and driving continuous improvement across all facets of the educational system, directly impacting student outcomes and community engagement.

Jacqueline Watkins, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Duval County Public Schools, leads all aspects of workforce management and talent development for the district's extensive employee base. Watkins oversees recruitment, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and professional development programs, ensuring a skilled and motivated workforce. This role is pivotal in attracting and retaining high-quality educators and support staff essential for student success. By fostering a positive and equitable work environment, Jacqueline Watkins supports employee engagement and retention. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic initiatives focus on aligning HR practices with the district's educational goals and operational demands. Watkins' leadership ensures that human capital is effectively managed to support the delivery of exceptional educational services across all schools.