Rutherford County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Rutherford County Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including financial management, operational logistics, organizational governance, and public communications.

Committed to academic excellence and community engagement, Rutherford County Schools delivers comprehensive K-12 education, athletics, and fine arts programs to foster student success across the Tennessee region.

Leadership Roles at Rutherford County Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - Brian Runion
  • President - Kimerly Edwards
  • Chief Operations Officer - Trey Lee
  • Chief Communications Officer (Cco) - James Evans
  • Brian Runion - Chief Financial Officer

    Brian Runion, the Chief Financial Officer at Rutherford County Schools, manages the entire fiscal architecture for the district. Overseeing annual budget allocations, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that funding for elementary, middle, and high schools remains aligned with educational priorities. This role involves rigorous oversight of district-wide expenditures, including athletics and fine arts programs. By optimizing resource distribution, Brian Runion secures the financial health necessary for long-term institutional stability. The Chief Financial Officer coordinates with the Board to maintain transparency in all monetary reporting. Through careful analysis of regional economic trends, Runion directs the allocation of capital to support infrastructure improvements and classroom technology. This leadership position demands constant vigilance regarding state funding mandates and local tax revenue streams. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the economic foundation required for the district to deliver high-quality instruction to every student within the system.

    Kimerly Edwards - President

    Kimerly Edwards, the President at Rutherford County Schools, guides the overarching strategic vision and governance of the district. Overseeing board policy and community relations, the President ensures that all educational initiatives align with the mission of providing excellent K-12 instruction. This role involves facilitating high-level decision-making processes that shape the future of elementary, middle, and high school programs. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Kimerly Edwards drives the implementation of district-wide goals. The President maintains a focus on academic rigor and student achievement, ensuring that athletics and fine arts remain integral parts of the curriculum. This leadership position requires balancing diverse community interests with the practical needs of the school system. Through consistent engagement with the public, the President builds support for district initiatives. Ultimately, the President establishes the standard for excellence and accountability, ensuring that the district meets the evolving needs of the student population.

    Trey Lee - Chief Operations Officer

    Trey Lee, the Chief Operations Officer at Rutherford County Schools, directs the physical and logistical infrastructure supporting the district. Overseeing facility maintenance, transportation networks, and campus safety protocols, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that every school environment remains conducive to learning. This role involves managing large-scale projects that impact the daily experience of students and staff across the entire district. By streamlining operational workflows, Trey Lee enhances the efficiency of support services, including athletics and fine arts facilities. The Chief Operations Officer coordinates with external vendors and internal departments to maintain high standards for building upkeep and safety compliance. Through strategic planning, Lee architects solutions for capacity management as the district grows. This leadership function requires constant attention to logistical details and resource management. Ultimately, the Chief Operations Officer maintains the operational integrity of the district, allowing educators to focus entirely on academic outcomes.
    Trey Lee

    James Evans - Chief Communications Officer (Cco)

    James Evans, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) at Rutherford County Schools, directs all internal and external messaging strategies for the district. Overseeing public relations, media inquiries, and community outreach, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) ensures that stakeholders remain informed about district achievements and policy updates. This role involves managing the digital presence and online curriculum communications to maintain transparency with families. By crafting clear narratives regarding athletics, fine arts, and academic milestones, James Evans strengthens the connection between the schools and the broader community. The Chief Communications Officer (Cco) coordinates with other executive leaders to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms. Through proactive engagement, Evans manages the reputation of the district within the regional landscape. This leadership function requires precise attention to detail and a deep understanding of the educational environment. Ultimately, the Chief Communications Officer (Cco) fosters trust and engagement, supporting the overall mission of the district.
    James Evans

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

    Who leads Rutherford County Schools?
    Rutherford County Schools is led by Brian Runion (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kimerly Edwards (President) and Trey Lee (Chief Operations Officer).
    Who is part of Rutherford County Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Rutherford County Schools includes leaders such as Brian Runion (Chief Financial Officer), Kimerly Edwards (President), Trey Lee (Chief Operations Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Rutherford County Schools have?
    Rutherford County Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Rutherford County Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Rutherford County Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Operations Officer, Chief Communications Officer (Cco).