Gaston County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gaston County Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, finance, and communications.

Dedicated to educational excellence, Gaston County Schools provides comprehensive learning environments across elementary, middle, and high school levels, fostering student success in Gastonia, North Carolina.

Leadership Roles at Gaston County Schools

  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - James Beckford
  • Chief Technology Officer - Curtis Poplin
  • Chief of Staff - Tom Nencetti
  • Chief Communications Officer - Bonnie Reidy
  • James Beckford - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    James Beckford, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Gaston County Schools, oversees all financial operations and fiscal planning for the district. This critical role involves managing budgets, ensuring financial compliance, and optimizing resource allocation across elementary, middle, and high schools. Beckford directs financial reporting, audits, and the development of long-term financial strategies to support educational objectives. The Interim Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in maintaining the fiscal health of the district, securing funding, and ensuring accountability for all expenditures. Through diligent financial oversight, James Beckford safeguards the resources necessary for providing quality education in Gastonia, North Carolina.

    Curtis Poplin - Chief Technology Officer

    Curtis Poplin, the Chief Technology Officer at Gaston County Schools, directs the district's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all digital systems, Poplin ensures robust network performance and secure data management across elementary, middle, and high schools. This leadership role involves implementing innovative educational technologies that enhance learning experiences and streamline administrative processes. By managing hardware procurement, software deployment, and IT support services, Curtis Poplin drives operational efficiency and technological advancement. The Chief Technology Officer's focus remains on providing reliable and cutting-edge technological solutions to support the district's educational mission and its students' academic growth throughout North Carolina.
    Curtis Poplin

    Tom Nencetti - Chief of Staff

    Tom Nencetti, the Chief of Staff at Gaston County Schools, manages strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the district. This executive role involves coordinating efforts between various departments to ensure smooth execution of the superintendent's vision and district-wide policies. Nencetti facilitates communication and collaboration, acting as a key liaison between administrative leadership and school principals. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special projects, analyzing operational effectiveness, and driving continuous improvement in educational delivery. By ensuring organizational cohesion, Tom Nencetti supports the effective functioning of all elementary, middle, and high schools within the Gastonia, North Carolina region.

    Bonnie Reidy - Chief Communications Officer

    Bonnie Reidy, the Chief Communications Officer at Gaston County Schools, leads all internal and external communication strategies for the district. This executive position involves shaping the public image of Gaston County Schools and fostering strong relationships with parents, community members, and media outlets. Reidy directs the dissemination of information regarding school policies, student achievements, and district initiatives across elementary, middle, and high schools. The Chief Communications Officer's role is essential in building trust and transparency, managing crisis communications, and promoting the district's educational mission. By ensuring clear and consistent messaging, Bonnie Reidy enhances community engagement and supports the overall success of the school system in North Carolina.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gaston County Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gaston County Schools?
    Gaston County Schools is led by James Beckford (Interim Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Curtis Poplin (Chief Technology Officer) and Tom Nencetti (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Gaston County Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gaston County Schools includes leaders such as James Beckford (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Curtis Poplin (Chief Technology Officer), Tom Nencetti (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gaston County Schools have?
    Gaston County Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gaston County Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gaston County Schools includes roles such as Interim Chief Financial Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Communications Officer.