Guilford County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

June, 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, drives strategic human resources initiatives and sales-related operations. This dual role focuses on cultivating a high-performing workforce and optimizing sales processes to support the district's growth objectives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, and HR policy implementation, Schwab ensures the organization attracts and retains top talent. By aligning HR strategies with business goals, Janie Schwab directly impacts the district's capacity to deliver exceptional educational services. The HR President's responsibilities also encompass fostering a positive work environment and driving initiatives that enhance employee engagement and productivity across North Carolina.
    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. Overseeing all aspects of digital learning environments, Slade ensures robust and secure technology solutions support educational objectives across North Carolina. This leadership role involves managing the integration of innovative tools and platforms to enhance student engagement and teacher effectiveness. By optimizing network performance and cybersecurity measures, Rashad Slade directly supports the district's mission of preparing students for future careers. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities extend to managing technology budgets and driving digital transformation initiatives throughout the organization, ensuring equitable access to technology for all students and staff.

    Sonya Stephens - Chief of Staff

    Sonya Stephens, the Chief of Staff at Guilford County Schools, orchestrates strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the district. Managing key projects and ensuring seamless communication between departments, Stephens facilitates the execution of the Superintendent's vision. This critical role involves coordinating efforts to advance the district's educational goals and operational efficiencies. By serving as a central point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, Sonya Stephens drives progress on critical priorities. The Chief of Staff's oversight extends to policy implementation and performance monitoring, ensuring that all district operations contribute effectively to student success and community engagement in North Carolina.

    Leslie Deaton - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Leslie Deaton, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Guilford County Schools, supports the strategic direction and operational management of the district's information technology systems. Working closely with the Chief Technology Officer, Deaton focuses on enhancing the reliability and scalability of IT infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of PK-12 education. This position involves overseeing the implementation of new technologies and ensuring the security and integrity of data across the organization. By driving efficiency in IT service delivery, Leslie Deaton contributes directly to the seamless functioning of educational programs. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing IT projects and supporting the technology needs of students and staff throughout North Carolina.

    Tracey Lewis - Chief Communications Officer

    Tracey Lewis, the Chief Communications Officer at Guilford County Schools, leads the district's external and internal communication strategies. Managing public relations, media outreach, and stakeholder engagement, Lewis ensures clear and consistent messaging about the district's mission and achievements. This role is vital for building and maintaining strong relationships with parents, community members, and media outlets across North Carolina. By developing comprehensive communication plans, Tracey Lewis supports the district's commitment to transparency and collaboration. The Chief Communications Officer's oversight includes managing the district's brand identity and crisis communications, safeguarding the reputation of Guilford County Schools and promoting its educational impact.

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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.