Guilford County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Guilford County Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, communications, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to future readiness, Guilford County Schools delivers an education connecting student interests and skills with global career opportunities, fostering a collaborative environment with parents, businesses, and the community.

Leadership Roles at Guilford County Schools

  • Co-Founder & HR President, Sales - Janie Schwab
  • Chief Technology Officer - Rashad Slade
  • Chief of Staff - Sonya Stephens
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Leslie Deaton
  • Chief Communications Officer - Tracey Lewis
  • Janie Schwab - Co-Founder & HR President, Sales

    Janie Schwab, the Co-Founder & HR President, Sales at Guilford County Schools, leads human resources and sales-related strategic initiatives. Schwab oversees talent acquisition, employee development, and HR policy implementation to support the district's educational mission in North Carolina. This leadership position involves aligning HR functions with the district's operational needs and fostering a positive work environment for all staff. The Co-Founder & HR President, Sales drives efforts to attract and retain skilled educators and support personnel, crucial for delivering high-quality PK-12 education. Janie Schwab contributes to the district's partnerships by ensuring a robust and well-managed workforce that supports student success and future career readiness. Schwab's expertise in HR and sales strategy is integral to the district's operational effectiveness and community engagement.
    Janie Schwab

    Rashad Slade - Chief Technology Officer

    Rashad Slade, the Chief Technology Officer at Guilford County Schools, directs the district's technology strategy and infrastructure. Slade oversees the implementation and maintenance of all technological systems, ensuring robust digital learning environments and efficient administrative operations across North Carolina. This leadership role involves managing IT resources, cybersecurity protocols, and the integration of innovative educational technologies to support student success and teacher effectiveness. Slade's focus remains on leveraging technology to enhance the educational experience and prepare students for future careers. The Chief Technology Officer ensures that all technology initiatives align with the district's mission of connecting student skills with future economic demands, both domestically and internationally. Rashad Slade drives the technological vision for the district, supporting its commitment to partnership with parents, businesses, and the community.

    Sonya Stephens - Chief of Staff

    Sonya Stephens, the Chief of Staff at Guilford County Schools, manages strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the district. Stephens facilitates communication and collaboration between various departments, ensuring that executive directives translate into actionable plans. This role involves supporting the Superintendent's office, coordinating special projects, and optimizing internal processes to enhance educational delivery throughout North Carolina. The Chief of Staff plays a critical part in driving the district's mission by ensuring efficient resource allocation and fostering a cohesive organizational culture. Sonya Stephens works to strengthen partnerships with parents, businesses, and the community, aligning efforts to prepare students for future global economies. Stephens' leadership ensures that the district's educational goals are met with precision and effectiveness.

    Leslie Deaton - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Leslie Deaton, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Guilford County Schools, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the district's information technology services. Deaton collaborates with the Chief Technology Officer to manage IT infrastructure, enhance digital learning platforms, and ensure data security across North Carolina. This position involves overseeing key technology projects, optimizing system performance, and supporting the integration of new educational tools. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include ensuring the reliability and scalability of technology solutions that directly impact PK-12 student education. Leslie Deaton contributes to the district's goal of connecting student interests and skills with future career opportunities by maintaining a cutting-edge technological environment. Deaton's work is vital in supporting the district's partnerships and its commitment to global economic readiness.

    Tracey Lewis - Chief Communications Officer

    Tracey Lewis, the Chief Communications Officer at Guilford County Schools, directs all internal and external communication strategies for the district. Lewis is responsible for managing public relations, media relations, and stakeholder engagement across North Carolina. This role involves crafting clear and consistent messaging that reflects the district's mission and educational philosophy. The Chief Communications Officer ensures effective communication with parents, community members, businesses, and educational partners, fostering transparency and building strong relationships. Tracey Lewis plays a pivotal role in articulating the district's commitment to preparing students for future careers and the global economy. Lewis oversees the dissemination of information regarding educational programs, achievements, and initiatives, reinforcing the district's impact and vision.

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

    Who leads Guilford County Schools?
    Guilford County Schools is led by Janie Schwab (Co-Founder & HR President, Sales), along with executives such as Rashad Slade (Chief Technology Officer) and Sonya Stephens (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Guilford County Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Guilford County Schools includes leaders such as Janie Schwab (Co-Founder & HR President, Sales), Rashad Slade (Chief Technology Officer), Sonya Stephens (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Guilford County Schools have?
    Guilford County Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Guilford County Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Guilford County Schools includes roles such as Co-Founder & HR President, Sales, Chief Technology Officer, Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Chief Communications Officer.