Jeffco Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Jeffco Public Schools has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, staff, information technology, and human resources.

Dedicated to providing comprehensive K-12 education, Jeffco Public Schools fosters student success through diverse learning environments and career readiness programs, impacting the educational landscape in Colorado.

Leadership Roles at Jeffco Public Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Brenna Copeland
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeff Gatlin
  • Chief of Staff - Matt Palaoro
  • Chief Information Officer - Donald Jenkins
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Amanda Pierorazio
  • Associate Chief Human Resources Officer - Scott Barnes
  • Brenna Copeland - Chief Financial Officer

    Brenna Copeland, the Chief Financial Officer at Jeffco Public Schools, manages the fiscal health and financial strategy of the educational institution. Copeland oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility across all departments and schools. This critical role involves safeguarding district assets and maximizing financial efficiency to support educational initiatives. By developing sound financial policies, Brenna Copeland enables the district to invest in student programs and infrastructure. Her oversight extends to compliance with financial regulations and reporting, providing transparency to stakeholders and maintaining the trust essential for long-term operational stability and growth within the K-12 sector.

    Jeff Gatlin - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeff Gatlin, the Chief Operating Officer at Jeffco Public Schools, directs the operational framework supporting K-12 education and charter schools. Overseeing district-wide logistics, Gatlin ensures efficient resource allocation and facility management across all educational sites. This leadership role involves optimizing daily operations, from transportation to campus maintenance, directly impacting the learning environment for thousands of students. By streamlining operational processes, Jeff Gatlin enhances the district's capacity to deliver consistent, high-quality educational services. His focus remains on maintaining robust infrastructure that underpins the district's mission of providing accessible and effective education throughout Colorado.
    Jeff Gatlin

    Matt Palaoro - Chief of Staff

    Matt Palaoro, the Chief of Staff at Jeffco Public Schools, acts as a key advisor and strategic partner to the Superintendent and executive leadership team. Palaoro facilitates the execution of district-wide initiatives, ensuring alignment between strategic goals and operational activities. This position involves managing key projects, coordinating interdepartmental efforts, and enhancing communication channels across the organization. By driving strategic priorities, Matt Palaoro supports the effective implementation of educational policies and programs. His role is pivotal in optimizing the efficiency of the executive office and ensuring that the district's mission is advanced through coordinated and impactful leadership actions.

    Donald Jenkins - Chief Information Officer

    Donald Jenkins, the Chief Information Officer at Jeffco Public Schools, leads the technology strategy and infrastructure development for the district. Jenkins oversees the implementation and management of information systems, digital learning platforms, and network security, ensuring robust technological support for students and staff. This role is crucial for enabling modern educational delivery and administrative efficiency. By driving innovation in educational technology, Donald Jenkins enhances learning opportunities and operational effectiveness. His leadership ensures that Jeffco Public Schools remains at the forefront of technological integration, supporting a dynamic and secure digital environment for all.

    Amanda Pierorazio - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Amanda Pierorazio, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Jeffco Public Schools, directs all aspects of human capital management for the district. Pierorazio oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, benefits, and labor relations, ensuring a skilled and motivated workforce. This leadership position is fundamental to attracting and retaining high-quality educators and staff who are essential for student success. By fostering a positive and supportive work environment, Amanda Pierorazio contributes directly to the district's ability to achieve its educational objectives. Her strategic approach to HR management strengthens the organizational capacity and supports the overall mission of providing excellent K-12 education.

    Scott Barnes - Associate Chief Human Resources Officer

    Scott Barnes, the Associate Chief Human Resources Officer at Jeffco Public Schools, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of human resources functions. Barnes collaborates with the Chief Human Resources Officer to manage employee relations, implement HR policies, and enhance talent management programs across the district. This role is vital in ensuring the effective administration of HR services, supporting recruitment, retention, and professional development initiatives. By contributing to the optimization of HR processes, Scott Barnes reinforces the district's commitment to its employees and their professional growth, thereby strengthening the overall educational delivery system.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Jeffco Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Jeffco Public Schools?
    Jeffco Public Schools is led by Brenna Copeland (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Jeff Gatlin (Chief Operating Officer) and Matt Palaoro (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Jeffco Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Jeffco Public Schools includes leaders such as Brenna Copeland (Chief Financial Officer), Jeff Gatlin (Chief Operating Officer), Matt Palaoro (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Jeffco Public Schools have?
    Jeffco Public Schools has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Jeffco Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Jeffco Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.