Fairfax County Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Fairfax County Public Schools has 8 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, human resources, and student engagement.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Fairfax County Public Schools provides comprehensive K-12 learning experiences across its extensive network, fostering student success and community development throughout the region.

Leadership Roles at Fairfax County Public Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Leigh Burden
  • Chief Operating Officer - Andrew Mueck
  • President - Chess Club - Ishan Hanosh
  • President, Pto - JaMelle McNally
  • Superintendent Student Advisory Council - President and Technology Research Committee Co-Chair - Semir Ali
  • Superintendent's Advisory Council President - Julia Qu
  • Chief of Staff - Christine Donohue
  • Manager, Special Programs For & Chief Human Resources Officer - Elisabeth Boivin
  • Leigh Burden - Chief Financial Officer

    Leigh Burden, the Chief Financial Officer at Fairfax County Public Schools, directs the fiscal management and financial strategy for the K-12 educational institution. Burden oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the sustainable funding of educational programs and operational needs across Fairfax County. This critical role involves managing the district's financial health, including revenue generation, expenditure control, and compliance with financial regulations. By providing sound financial guidance, Leigh Burden supports the strategic objectives of Fairfax County Public Schools. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities encompass financial reporting, risk management, and the development of long-term financial sustainability plans. Burden's expertise ensures that financial resources are effectively utilized to maximize educational outcomes for students.
    Leigh Burden

    Andrew Mueck - Chief Operating Officer

    Andrew Mueck, the Chief Operating Officer at Fairfax County Public Schools, directs the operational framework supporting the district's K-12 educational mission. Overseeing a broad spectrum of essential services, Mueck ensures the efficient functioning of facilities, transportation, and support systems critical to student learning across Fairfax County. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining processes to enhance the delivery of educational programs. By managing the logistical backbone of the school district, Andrew Mueck directly contributes to maintaining a conducive learning environment for thousands of students. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight extends to infrastructure development and maintenance, guaranteeing that school facilities meet high standards for safety and functionality. Mueck's focus remains on driving operational excellence to support the core educational objectives of Fairfax County Public Schools.
    Andrew Mueck

    Ishan Hanosh - President - Chess Club

    Ishan Hanosh, the President - Chess Club at Fairfax County Public Schools, leads student engagement initiatives focused on strategic thinking and competitive play. Hanosh organizes club activities, fosters a community for chess enthusiasts, and promotes the development of critical thinking skills among student participants. This leadership position involves coordinating events, managing club resources, and encouraging broader student involvement in extracurricular activities. By championing the chess club, Ishan Hanosh contributes to the holistic development of students within the Fairfax County Public Schools system. The President - Chess Club's role emphasizes building leadership qualities and providing enriching experiences outside the traditional classroom setting. Hanosh's dedication enhances the diverse range of opportunities available to students.

    JaMelle McNally - President, Pto

    JaMelle McNally, the President, Pto at Fairfax County Public Schools, spearheads parent-teacher organization efforts to support student learning and school community initiatives. McNally collaborates with educators and parents to enhance educational resources and foster a strong partnership between home and school environments across Fairfax County. This leadership role involves organizing fundraising activities, facilitating communication, and advocating for student needs. By driving Pto engagement, JaMelle McNally strengthens the collaborative network that supports the educational mission of Fairfax County Public Schools. The President, Pto's focus is on empowering parents and guardians to actively participate in their children's educational journey. McNally's efforts contribute to a vibrant and supportive school ecosystem.

    Semir Ali - Superintendent Student Advisory Council - President and Technology Research Committee Co-Chair

    Semir Ali, the Superintendent Student Advisory Council - President and Technology Research Committee Co-Chair at Fairfax County Public Schools, represents student perspectives and drives technology-focused initiatives. Ali facilitates dialogue between students and district leadership, ensuring student voices inform educational policies and technological advancements. This dual role involves leading the advisory council and contributing to research on emerging technologies that can enhance learning experiences across the K-12 system. By actively engaging in these capacities, Semir Ali promotes student leadership and innovation within Fairfax County Public Schools. The President and Co-Chair's commitment to student advocacy and technological exploration is crucial for modernizing educational practices. Ali's leadership fosters a forward-thinking approach to education.

    Julia Qu - Superintendent's Advisory Council President

    Julia Qu, the Superintendent's Advisory Council President at Fairfax County Public Schools, leads student representation and provides critical feedback to district administration. Qu ensures that student concerns and suggestions are effectively communicated to leadership, influencing decisions that impact the K-12 educational experience across Fairfax County. This role involves organizing council meetings, fostering collaboration among student representatives, and advocating for student-centric improvements. By guiding the advisory council, Julia Qu enhances the responsiveness of Fairfax County Public Schools to student needs. The Superintendent's Advisory Council President's dedication to student voice is instrumental in shaping educational policies and programs. Qu's leadership empowers students to actively participate in their educational environment.

    Christine Donohue - Chief of Staff

    Christine Donohue, the Chief of Staff at Fairfax County Public Schools, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the superintendent's office. Donohue manages key initiatives and facilitates communication across various departments, ensuring alignment with the district's overarching educational goals. This role involves advising leadership on critical matters and driving the execution of strategic plans throughout the K-12 system. By acting as a central point of contact and coordination, Christine Donohue enhances the effectiveness of administrative functions. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special projects and ensuring that the superintendent's vision is translated into actionable strategies. Donohue's leadership ensures that the operational and strategic priorities of Fairfax County Public Schools are effectively managed and implemented across all school locations.

    Elisabeth Boivin - Manager, Special Programs For & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Elisabeth Boivin, the Manager, Special Programs For & Chief Human Resources Officer at Fairfax County Public Schools, leads the comprehensive human capital management strategy for the district. Boivin oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a skilled and dedicated workforce supports the K-12 educational mission. This dual role involves managing specialized programs while also driving HR initiatives that foster a positive and productive work environment across all school locations. By focusing on employee well-being and professional growth, Elisabeth Boivin enhances the capacity of Fairfax County Public Schools to deliver exceptional education. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic direction ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes equitable employment practices. Boivin's leadership is vital for attracting and retaining the talent necessary for the district's success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Fairfax County Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Fairfax County Public Schools?
    Fairfax County Public Schools is led by Leigh Burden (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Andrew Mueck (Chief Operating Officer) and Ishan Hanosh (President - Chess Club).
    Who is part of Fairfax County Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Fairfax County Public Schools includes leaders such as Leigh Burden (Chief Financial Officer), Andrew Mueck (Chief Operating Officer), Ishan Hanosh (President - Chess Club) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Fairfax County Public Schools have?
    Fairfax County Public Schools has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Fairfax County Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Fairfax County Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President - Chess Club, President, Pto, Superintendent Student Advisory Council - President and Technology Research Committee Co-Chair.