Gaston County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gaston County Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including administrative operations, technology infrastructure, financial management, and public communications.

Committed to academic excellence, Gaston County Schools fosters a supportive learning environment across elementary, middle, and high schools to ensure student success throughout the North Carolina region.

Leadership Roles at Gaston County Schools

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

    James Beckford, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Gaston County Schools, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire school district. Beckford oversees the allocation of funds to support instructional programs, facility maintenance, and staff compensation. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditures, the Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with state and federal financial regulations. James Beckford also prepares detailed reports for the board of education to provide transparency regarding the use of public resources. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to forecast future funding needs and mitigate financial risks. Through rigorous auditing and budget management, the Interim Chief Financial Officer maintains the fiscal integrity of the district. Beckford collaborates with other executive leaders to prioritize spending that directly impacts student outcomes. By optimizing financial operations, the Interim Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary resources to sustain high-quality educational services for the community.

    Tom Nencetti - Chief of Staff

    Tom Nencetti, the Chief of Staff at Gaston County Schools, manages daily administrative operations and coordinates strategic initiatives across the district. Nencetti facilitates communication between the superintendent and various departments to ensure alignment with educational goals. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff improves organizational efficiency within the school system. Tom Nencetti also oversees the implementation of district-wide policies that support academic growth and operational stability. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with school principals and central office staff to address emerging challenges. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief of Staff maintains high standards of professional conduct. Nencetti drives the development of long-term projects that enhance the overall effectiveness of the district. By prioritizing clear communication and resource management, the Chief of Staff ensures that all administrative functions support the core mission of providing quality education to students across the district.

    Curtis Poplin - Chief Technology Officer

    Curtis Poplin, the Chief Technology Officer at Gaston County Schools, directs the digital infrastructure and information systems supporting modern classroom environments. Poplin manages the deployment of educational software and hardware across all elementary, middle, and high schools. By architecting secure network solutions, the Chief Technology Officer protects sensitive student data while enabling seamless access to digital learning resources. Curtis Poplin also evaluates emerging technologies to determine potential benefits for the district curriculum. This role involves leading technical teams to resolve infrastructure issues and maintain system uptime for thousands of users. Through strategic investment in technology, the Chief Technology Officer expands the capacity for blended learning initiatives. Poplin ensures that all technological assets align with the broader educational objectives of the district. By fostering innovation in the classroom, the Chief Technology Officer empowers educators and students to utilize advanced tools for academic achievement and long-term success.
    Curtis Poplin

    Bonnie Reidy - Chief Communications Officer

    Bonnie Reidy, the Chief Communications Officer at Gaston County Schools, directs all public relations and community engagement efforts for the district. Reidy manages the flow of information to parents, staff, and the broader public to maintain transparency and trust. By crafting clear messaging regarding school policies and district achievements, the Chief Communications Officer strengthens the relationship between the schools and the community. Bonnie Reidy also coordinates crisis communication strategies to ensure accurate and timely updates during unexpected events. This role involves overseeing digital media channels and press relations to promote the accomplishments of students and faculty. Through proactive outreach, the Chief Communications Officer builds support for district initiatives and educational programs. Reidy works closely with the superintendent to align public messaging with the core mission of the district. By fostering positive engagement, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that the community remains informed and involved in the success of the school system.

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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 Tom Nencetti (Chief of Staff) and Curtis Poplin (Chief Technology Officer).
    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), Tom Nencetti (Chief of Staff), Curtis Poplin (Chief Technology Officer) 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 of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Communications Officer.