Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Executive and Leadership Team

Freida Lashmit, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, manages the district's financial operations and fiscal health. This critical role involves overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support educational programs and administrative functions. Lashmit ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements, maintaining transparency and accountability in fiscal matters. The Interim Chief Financial Officer also directs accounting, payroll, and procurement processes, optimizing financial efficiency across the district. By providing strategic financial guidance, Freida Lashmit supports the long-term sustainability of the school system, enabling effective delivery of educational services throughout North Carolina.

Kimberly Forbes, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, directs the financial strategy and management of the district's resources. This position involves rigorous oversight of financial planning, budgeting, and expenditure control to ensure fiscal responsibility. Forbes is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, managing cash flow, and optimizing investment strategies to support educational initiatives. The Interim Chief Financial Officer also leads efforts in financial reporting and compliance, adhering to state and federal guidelines. By ensuring sound financial practices, Kimberly Forbes contributes to the operational stability and growth of the school system, enabling the delivery of quality education across all campuses.

Barbara Kibler, the Kindergarten Teacher and President of the Winston Salem Reading Association at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, champions literacy initiatives and early childhood education. In this dual capacity, Kibler directly impacts foundational learning experiences for young students while also leading a key professional organization focused on reading development. This role involves implementing innovative teaching methodologies in the classroom and guiding the strategic direction of the Reading Association to promote literacy across the community. Kibler's leadership ensures that both classroom instruction and broader educational outreach align with best practices in early literacy. By fostering a love for reading from the earliest stages, Barbara Kibler contributes significantly to student success and educational advancement within the district.

Christopher Weikart, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, directs all aspects of workforce management and employee relations. This leadership role involves developing and implementing strategic human capital initiatives to support the district's educational mission. Weikart oversees talent acquisition, retention programs, compensation, and benefits administration, ensuring the district attracts and retains high-quality educators and staff. The Chief Human Resources Officer also manages professional development frameworks and employee engagement strategies, fostering a positive and productive work environment across all schools. By aligning HR policies with the district's operational goals, Christopher Weikart ensures a robust and supportive infrastructure for the entire educational community, driving employee satisfaction and retention.

Lauren Richards, the Chief Operations Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, oversees the essential infrastructure and logistical support for all district facilities and services. This role encompasses managing facilities maintenance, transportation, food services, and technology infrastructure, ensuring seamless daily operations. Richards drives efficiency and effectiveness in resource utilization, optimizing operational workflows to support the educational environment. The Chief Operations Officer also leads strategic planning for facility upgrades and capital projects, ensuring safe and conducive learning spaces. By directing these vital functions, Lauren Richards ensures the smooth functioning of the school system, directly impacting the student and staff experience across North Carolina.

Amanda Killian, the Chief Communications Officer at Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, leads the strategic development and execution of all internal and external communication initiatives. This position involves managing public relations, media relations, and stakeholder engagement to foster positive perceptions of the district. Killian oversees the dissemination of information regarding school policies, achievements, and events, ensuring clarity and consistency across all platforms. The Chief Communications Officer also develops crisis communication plans and manages the district's brand identity, safeguarding its reputation. By enhancing communication channels, Amanda Killian strengthens community ties and supports the district's mission of educational excellence.