Fayette County Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Fayette County Public Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, human resources, legal affairs, and staff representation.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Fayette County Public Schools provides comprehensive learning environments from preschool through high school, shaping future generations in Lexington, Kentucky.

Leadership Roles at Fayette County Public Schools

  • Chief Operating Officer - Mary Wright
  • FCEA President - Jessica Hiler
  • Chief of Staff - Tracy Bruno
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Reaneé Ellis
  • Chief Legal Officer - Shelley Chatfield
  • Mary Wright - Chief Operating Officer

    Mary Wright, the Chief Operating Officer at Fayette County Public Schools, directs the operational framework supporting the district's educational mission. Overseeing the efficient functioning of all school facilities and support services, Wright ensures that the physical and logistical infrastructure aligns with academic goals. This leadership role involves managing budgets for operational expenditures, optimizing resource allocation across multiple school sites, and implementing policies that enhance the daily learning environment for students and staff. Wright's strategic oversight extends to transportation, food services, and building maintenance, all critical components for a seamless educational experience. By focusing on operational excellence, Mary Wright directly contributes to the district's capacity to deliver high-quality education across its preschool, elementary, middle, and high schools.

    Jessica Hiler - FCEA President

    Jessica Hiler, the FCEA President at Fayette County Public Schools, represents the collective voice and interests of the Fayette County Education Association members. Hiler advocates for educators' rights, professional standards, and improved working conditions, fostering a collaborative relationship between staff and district administration. This leadership position is pivotal in ensuring that the perspectives of teachers and educational professionals are considered in policy decisions and operational planning. Jessica Hiler's role involves negotiating contracts, addressing grievances, and promoting professional growth opportunities for educators. By championing the needs of the teaching staff, Hiler contributes to a supportive environment that ultimately benefits student learning and educational outcomes across the district.

    Tracy Bruno - Chief of Staff

    Tracy Bruno, the Chief of Staff at Fayette County Public Schools, acts as a central liaison, coordinating strategic initiatives and ensuring effective communication across the district's leadership. Bruno manages key projects and supports the Superintendent in executing the district's vision for educational advancement. This role involves facilitating collaboration between departments, preparing critical reports, and advising on policy development to uphold the district's commitment to student success. Tracy Bruno's responsibilities include streamlining internal processes and ensuring that operational decisions are aligned with the overarching educational philosophy. By providing strategic support and driving key organizational priorities, Bruno enhances the overall effectiveness of Fayette County Public Schools' administrative functions and educational outreach.

    Reaneé Ellis - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Reaneé Ellis, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Fayette County Public Schools, leads all aspects of personnel management and development for the district's workforce. Ellis oversees recruitment, retention, compensation, benefits, and professional development programs designed to attract and support high-caliber educators and staff. This critical function ensures that Fayette County Public Schools maintains a talented and dedicated team committed to student achievement. Reaneé Ellis's strategic focus includes fostering a positive and productive work environment, managing employee relations, and ensuring compliance with all labor laws and district policies. By championing human capital initiatives, Ellis directly supports the district's mission to provide exceptional educational services across all grade levels.
    Shelley Chatfield, the Chief Legal Officer at Fayette County Public Schools, provides expert legal counsel and ensures the district operates in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Chatfield manages all legal affairs, including contract review, litigation oversight, and policy interpretation, safeguarding the interests of the school district, its students, and its employees. This role is essential for navigating the complex legal landscape inherent in public education. Shelley Chatfield's responsibilities encompass advising the board and administration on risk management, developing legal strategies, and representing the district in legal proceedings. By maintaining rigorous legal standards, Chatfield upholds the integrity and operational stability of Fayette County Public Schools.
    Shelley Chatfield

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

    Who leads Fayette County Public Schools?
    Fayette County Public Schools is led by Mary Wright (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Jessica Hiler (FCEA President) and Tracy Bruno (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Fayette County Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Fayette County Public Schools includes leaders such as Mary Wright (Chief Operating Officer), Jessica Hiler (FCEA President), Tracy Bruno (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Fayette County Public Schools have?
    Fayette County Public Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Fayette County Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Fayette County Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, FCEA President, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Legal Officer.