Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools has 5 executives leading key functions including finance, human resources, communications, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools provides a comprehensive learning environment across its elementary, middle, high, and magnet schools, shaping future leaders in North Carolina.

Leadership Roles at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools

  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Kimberly Forbes
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Freida Lashmit
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Christopher Weikart
  • Chief Communications Officer - Amanda Killian
  • Chief Operations Officer - Lauren Richards
  • Kimberly Forbes - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Kimberly Forbes, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, directs fiscal operations and financial planning for the district. Forbes manages the allocation of resources across all educational levels, ensuring budgetary adherence and financial stability. This leadership role involves overseeing accounting, payroll, and financial reporting, providing critical insights for strategic decision-making. Forbes's expertise supports the district's mission by optimizing financial performance and resource utilization. The Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with all financial regulations and implements efficient financial management practices. By maintaining sound fiscal policies, Kimberly Forbes directly contributes to the educational environment and operational integrity of the school system.

    Freida Lashmit - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Freida Lashmit, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, focuses on the strategic financial management and oversight of the district's assets. Lashmit's responsibilities include developing long-term financial strategies and ensuring the efficient deployment of funds to support educational programs. This role requires meticulous attention to financial forecasting and risk management, safeguarding the district's economic health. Lashmit collaborates with other executive leaders to align financial objectives with the overall mission of providing quality education. The Interim Chief Financial Officer drives initiatives to enhance financial transparency and accountability across all departments. Through diligent financial stewardship, Freida Lashmit supports the operational continuity and growth of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.

    Christopher Weikart - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Christopher Weikart, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, leads all aspects of human capital management for the district. Weikart oversees recruitment, employee relations, compensation, and professional development programs, ensuring a skilled and dedicated workforce. This critical role involves developing and implementing HR policies that support the district's educational goals and foster a positive work environment. Weikart ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes equitable practices across all personnel matters. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a key part in talent acquisition and retention strategies, vital for maintaining high standards in education. By managing the district's most valuable asset—its people—Christopher Weikart directly impacts the quality of instruction and student support services.
    Christopher Weikart

    Amanda Killian - Chief Communications Officer

    Amanda Killian, the Chief Communications Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, directs all internal and external communication strategies for the district. Killian manages public relations, media outreach, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring clear and consistent messaging about the district's initiatives and achievements. This role is essential for building and maintaining strong relationships with parents, the community, and educational partners. Killian oversees the development of communication materials and digital content, enhancing the district's public image and transparency. The Chief Communications Officer ensures that all communications align with the educational mission and values of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. By effectively conveying information and fostering dialogue, Amanda Killian supports community involvement and strengthens the district's connection with its constituents.

    Lauren Richards - Chief Operations Officer

    Lauren Richards, the Chief Operations Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, oversees the essential operational functions that support the district's educational mission. Richards manages facilities, transportation, food services, and technology infrastructure, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery across all schools. This leadership position involves strategic planning for resource allocation and operational improvements to enhance the learning environment. Richards drives initiatives to optimize operational efficiency and maintain safe, functional school facilities. The Chief Operations Officer plays a pivotal role in managing the logistical aspects of the district, directly impacting student well-being and academic success. By ensuring seamless operations, Lauren Richards contributes significantly to the overall effectiveness and stability of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.
    Lauren Richards

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools?
    Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools is led by Kimberly Forbes (Interim Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Freida Lashmit (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and Christopher Weikart (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools includes leaders such as Kimberly Forbes (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Freida Lashmit (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Christopher Weikart (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools have?
    Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools includes roles such as Interim Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Communications Officer, Chief Operations Officer.