FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 16, 2026
(corrected April 17, 2026)
Chatham County Schools Announces Permanent Leadership Appointments
Correction: The April 16, 2026 press release inaccurately stated that Chief Academic Officer Christopher Poston provides leadership and oversight for Instructional Technology, Data & Accountability, and testing and assessment programs. The third paragraph in the press release below has been corrected. CCS regrets the error.
PITTSBORO, N.C. — Chatham County Schools (CCS) is pleased to announce the permanent appointments of Christopher Poston as Chief Academic Officer and Brittany Smith as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.
Christopher Poston, who has been serving as Interim Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services, will now assume the role of Chief Academic Officer. In this position, Poston leads the district’s academic strategy by directing the development, implementation, and evaluation of curriculum to ensure alignment with state standards and continued improvement in student achievement.
As Chief Academic Officer, Poston provides leadership and oversight for key academic departments, including Early Literacy, Instructional Technology, Data & Accountability, and Fine Arts. He will also support the professional growth and evaluation of instructional staff, helping to ensure high-quality teaching across the district. In collaboration with the Superintendent, Poston plays a critical role in advancing the district’s strategic vision, managing academic budgets, and strengthening accountability systems. His responsibilities include the oversight of testing and assessment programs as well as Career & Technical Education (CTE) services.
Brittany Smith, previously serving as Interim Chief Financial Officer, has been officially appointed as Chief Financial Officer. In her role, Smith leads the district’s financial operations, including the development and management of the annual budget, ensuring compliance with the School Budget and Fiscal Control Act. Smith oversees key operational functions such as accounting, payroll, purchasing, accounts payable, and fixed assets, ensuring efficiency and accuracy across all financial processes. She is also responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Code and the Fair Labor Standards Act.
“I am honored to serve in this role and continue working alongside our educators and leaders to support the success of ALL Chatham County students,” said Poston. “Together, we will continue to build on our progress, strengthen instruction, and ensure every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our district in this capacity,” said Smith. “Maintaining strong financial practices while supporting the district’s goals is essential, and I look forward to helping ensure long-term stability and responsible stewardship of our resources.”
“Both Christopher and Brittany have proven themselves as capable, forward-thinking leaders,” said Superintendent Dr. Anthony D. Jackson. “Their dedication, expertise, and vision make them the right individuals to continue guiding our organization forward in these critical roles.”
These appointments reflect CCS’s commitment to strong leadership and operational excellence; it looks forward to the continued impact both leaders will have in supporting the mission of CCS and serving the community.
For more information about Chatham County Schools, visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us, or contact Chatham County Schools Public Information Officer Jessica Pasión.
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Media Contact:
Jessica Pasión
Public Information Officer
Chatham County Schools
468 Renaissance Drive
Pittsboro, NC 27539
Phone: 919.542.3626
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves more than 9,000 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, and engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.
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