Guilford County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Guilford County Schools has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, human resources, communications, and operations.

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

Leadership Roles at Guilford County Schools

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

    Janie Schwab, the Co-Founder & HR President, Sales at Guilford County Schools, drives strategic human resources initiatives with a focus on sales and organizational development. Schwab oversees the recruitment, training, and management of personnel critical to the school district's operational success and partnership building. This leadership function involves aligning HR strategies with the company's overarching goal of connecting student skills with future economic needs. Schwab ensures that human capital is optimized to support educational delivery and community engagement. By fostering a robust HR framework, Janie Schwab contributes to Guilford County Schools' mission of providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for global careers.
    Janie Schwab

    Sonya Stephens - Chief of Staff

    Sonya Stephens, the Chief of Staff at Guilford County Schools, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the district. Stephens manages key projects that advance the school system's mission of preparing students for future careers and global economies. This leadership role involves coordinating efforts between various departments to ensure cohesive execution of district-wide goals. Stephens oversees the implementation of policies and programs designed to enhance educational outcomes and foster community engagement. By ensuring efficient resource allocation and effective communication channels, Sonya Stephens drives the operational effectiveness of Guilford County Schools, supporting its commitment to partnership and student success.

    Rashad Slade - Chief Technology Officer

    Rashad Slade, the Chief Technology Officer at Guilford County Schools, architects the district's technology infrastructure and digital learning strategies. Slade oversees the integration of innovative technological solutions that support PK-12 education and connect student skills with future career demands. This involves managing the deployment of hardware, software, and network systems to ensure reliable access for students and staff. Slade drives initiatives focused on cybersecurity, data management, and the adoption of educational technology platforms. By ensuring robust and secure technological environments, Rashad Slade enhances the learning experience and operational efficiency, directly supporting Guilford County Schools' mission to prepare students for a globally connected world.

    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, ensuring systems are secure, efficient, and aligned with educational objectives. This role involves overseeing the implementation and maintenance of critical technology systems that support PK-12 learning environments and administrative functions. Deaton focuses on enhancing digital accessibility and providing technical support to educators and students. By ensuring the smooth operation of IT services, Leslie Deaton contributes significantly to Guilford County Schools' ability to deliver a future-ready education and foster essential student skills.

    Shirley Morrison - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shirley Morrison, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Guilford County Schools, directs all aspects of human capital management for the district. Morrison oversees talent acquisition, professional development, employee relations, and compensation strategies to support the educational mission. This leadership position involves cultivating a skilled and dedicated workforce essential for delivering high-quality PK-12 education. Morrison ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes a positive and productive work environment. By attracting, retaining, and developing top talent, Shirley Morrison plays a vital role in Guilford County Schools' ability to partner effectively with stakeholders and prepare students for future careers and global economies.

    Tracey Lewis - Chief Communications Officer

    Tracey Lewis, the Chief Communications Officer at Guilford County Schools, leads the district's external and internal communication strategies. Lewis manages public relations, media outreach, and stakeholder engagement to effectively convey the school system's mission and achievements. This role involves developing messaging that highlights the connection between student interests, skills, and future career opportunities. Lewis oversees the dissemination of information to parents, the community, and the media, fostering transparency and building strong partnerships. By ensuring clear and consistent communication, Tracey Lewis supports Guilford County Schools' commitment to delivering a comprehensive education that prepares students for success both locally and globally.

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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 Sonya Stephens (Chief of Staff) and Rashad Slade (Chief Technology Officer).
    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), Sonya Stephens (Chief of Staff), Rashad Slade (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Guilford County Schools have?
    Guilford County Schools has 6 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 of Staff, Chief Technology Officer, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.