Seattle Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Seattle Public Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including finance, technology, operations, and governance.

Dedicated to fostering educational excellence, Seattle Public Schools provides comprehensive K-12 learning experiences, driving student success through strategic leadership and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Seattle Public Schools

  • Chief Financial Officer - JoLynn Berge
  • Chief Information Officer & Superintendent For Technology & Optimization Associate - Carlos Del Valle
  • Chief Operations Officer - Fred Podesta
  • School Board - Elizabeth Lowe
  • JoLynn Berge - Chief Financial Officer

    JoLynn Berge, the Chief Financial Officer at Seattle Public Schools, directs all fiscal operations and financial planning for the district. Overseeing budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, Berge ensures the responsible allocation of resources to support educational programs and student services across elementary, middle, and high schools. This leadership role involves managing the district's financial health, securing funding, and implementing sound financial policies to maintain operational stability and support long-term strategic objectives. By optimizing financial processes and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, JoLynn Berge directly contributes to the district's ability to deliver quality education. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to financial analysis and forecasting, providing critical insights for executive decision-making and resource management within the Washington educational landscape.

    Carlos Del Valle - Chief Information Officer & Superintendent For Technology & Optimization Associate

    Carlos Del Valle, the Chief Information Officer & Superintendent For Technology & Optimization Associate at Seattle Public Schools, architects the district's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, including network management, data security, and educational technology integration, Del Valle drives innovation to enhance learning environments. This critical role involves leading initiatives for system optimization, ensuring seamless technological support for students, educators, and administrative staff across all school levels. By implementing cutting-edge solutions and fostering digital literacy, Carlos Del Valle empowers the district to leverage technology effectively for improved educational outcomes and operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing technology investments, developing robust cybersecurity measures, and ensuring equitable access to digital resources throughout Seattle's K-12 system.
    Carlos Del Valle

    Fred Podesta - Chief Operations Officer

    Fred Podesta, the Chief Operations Officer at Seattle Public Schools, directs the comprehensive operational functions essential for the district's daily activities. Overseeing facilities management, transportation, food services, and safety protocols, Podesta ensures a secure and efficient environment for all students and staff. This leadership position involves managing the logistical complexities of a large school district, optimizing resource deployment, and maintaining the physical infrastructure across numerous elementary, middle, and high school campuses. By driving operational excellence and implementing effective management strategies, Fred Podesta directly supports the core mission of providing quality education. The Chief Operations Officer's responsibilities include strategic planning for facility upgrades, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and coordinating essential support services that underpin the educational experience throughout Seattle.

    Elizabeth Lowe - School Board

    Elizabeth Lowe, the School Board at Seattle Public Schools, provides essential governance and strategic oversight for the district's educational mission. As a member of the School Board, Lowe contributes to policy development, budget approval, and the overall direction of K-12 education within Seattle. This vital role involves representing community interests, ensuring accountability, and setting the vision for student success across elementary, middle, and high schools. By collaborating with other board members and district leadership, Elizabeth Lowe champions initiatives that enhance academic achievement and operational effectiveness. The School Board's collective decisions guide the district's priorities, ensuring that resources are aligned with educational goals and that the needs of students and families are met. Lowe's involvement is critical to maintaining the integrity and quality of public education services.

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

    Who leads Seattle Public Schools?
    Seattle Public Schools is led by JoLynn Berge (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Carlos Del Valle (Chief Information Officer & Superintendent For Technology & Optimization Associate) and Fred Podesta (Chief Operations Officer).
    Who is part of Seattle Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Seattle Public Schools includes leaders such as JoLynn Berge (Chief Financial Officer), Carlos Del Valle (Chief Information Officer & Superintendent For Technology & Optimization Associate), Fred Podesta (Chief Operations Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Seattle Public Schools have?
    Seattle Public Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Seattle Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Seattle Public Schools includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer & Superintendent For Technology & Optimization Associate, Chief Operations Officer, School Board.