Gwinnett County Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gwinnett County Public Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, administrative coordination, operational management, and governance.

Committed to academic excellence, Gwinnett County Public Schools fosters student success through a comprehensive network of elementary, middle, high, and specialty schools across the region.

Leadership Roles at Gwinnett County Public Schools

  • Chief Executive Officer - B. Hop
  • Chief Financial Officer - Joseph Heffron
  • President, Immediate Past - Bernadette Scruggs
  • Chief of Staff - Bernadette Kirkland
  • Chief Operations Officer - George Martin
  • B. Hop - Chief Executive Officer

    B. Hop, the Chief Executive Officer at Gwinnett County Public Schools, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire educational district. By aligning academic goals with community needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every elementary, middle, high, and specialty school maintains rigorous standards. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to secure resources for diverse student populations. B. Hop monitors district-wide performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in classroom outcomes. Through the implementation of innovative pedagogical frameworks, the Chief Executive Officer elevates the quality of instruction across all campuses. By fostering partnerships with local stakeholders, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the connection between the district and the broader Georgia community. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the educational mission remains focused on preparing students for future success in a competitive global landscape.

    Joseph Heffron - Chief Financial Officer

    Joseph Heffron, the Chief Financial Officer at Gwinnett County Public Schools, manages the fiscal health and budgetary allocations for the entire district. Overseeing complex funding streams, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources reach classrooms efficiently to support elementary, middle, high, and specialty school programs. This role requires precise financial planning to maintain long-term stability while addressing the evolving needs of a growing student body. Joseph Heffron coordinates with department heads to optimize spending and maximize the impact of every dollar invested in education. By analyzing economic trends and state funding requirements, the Chief Financial Officer protects the financial integrity of the district. Through rigorous auditing and transparent reporting, the Chief Financial Officer maintains public trust. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary capital to sustain high-quality learning environments throughout the entire Gwinnett County region.

    Bernadette Scruggs - President, Immediate Past

    Bernadette Scruggs, the President, Immediate Past at Gwinnett County Public Schools, provides critical continuity and historical perspective to the current governance structure. By advising on long-standing policies and community relations, the President, Immediate Past ensures that the district maintains stability during leadership transitions. This role involves supporting the current Board in evaluating the effectiveness of programs across elementary, middle, high, and specialty schools. Bernadette Scruggs leverages extensive experience to guide strategic discussions regarding the future of the district. Through the promotion of consistent educational values, the President, Immediate Past reinforces the commitment to student success that defines the organization. By participating in key governance committees, the President, Immediate Past helps align current initiatives with the established mission of the district. Ultimately, the President, Immediate Past contributes to the enduring legacy and ongoing progress of the entire educational system.
    Bernadette Scruggs

    Bernadette Kirkland - Chief of Staff

    Bernadette Kirkland, the Chief of Staff at Gwinnett County Public Schools, coordinates administrative functions and facilitates communication between the executive leadership team and district departments. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff ensures that the strategic initiatives of the district move forward without delay. This role involves managing high-level projects that impact elementary, middle, high, and specialty schools across the entire system. Bernadette Kirkland organizes executive workflows to improve organizational efficiency and cross-departmental collaboration. Through the management of sensitive information and policy implementation, the Chief of Staff supports the daily operations of the district. By acting as a primary liaison for the leadership team, the Chief of Staff resolves complex issues that arise within the educational environment. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational rhythm necessary for the district to achieve its long-term academic and community goals.

    George Martin - Chief Operations Officer

    George Martin, the Chief Operations Officer at Gwinnett County Public Schools, manages the physical infrastructure and logistical support systems required for district-wide success. Overseeing facility maintenance, transportation, and safety protocols, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that every elementary, middle, high, and specialty school operates in a secure and functional environment. This role involves planning for the expansion of school facilities to accommodate regional growth. George Martin directs the teams responsible for daily logistics, ensuring that students and staff have the necessary tools for a productive school day. By implementing sustainable practices and modernizing campus technology, the Chief Operations Officer improves the overall efficiency of the district. Through careful oversight of capital projects, the Chief Operations Officer supports the long-term development of the educational landscape. Ultimately, the Chief Operations Officer provides the essential foundation for academic achievement across the entire district.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gwinnett County Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gwinnett County Public Schools?
    Gwinnett County Public Schools is led by B. Hop (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joseph Heffron (Chief Financial Officer) and Bernadette Scruggs (President, Immediate Past).
    Who is part of Gwinnett County Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gwinnett County Public Schools includes leaders such as B. Hop (Chief Executive Officer), Joseph Heffron (Chief Financial Officer), Bernadette Scruggs (President, Immediate Past) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gwinnett County Public Schools have?
    Gwinnett County Public Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gwinnett County Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gwinnett County Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Immediate Past, Chief of Staff, Chief Operations Officer.