By Victor Vybz | Gwinnett News Report
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — The Gwinnett County Board of Education has named Dr. Alexandra Estrella as the sole finalist. She is set to become the next superintendent of Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) after a nationwide search process. The Board made the announcement on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Officials described it as a comprehensive national search and evaluation process. This was conducted to find the next leader of Georgia’s largest school district.
According to the Board of Education, Dr. Estrella emerged as the top candidate. The board carefully deliberated. They aligned on the qualities needed to lead Gwinnett County Public Schools into the future.
The Board partnered with Alma Advisory Group, a nationally recognized executive search firm, to guide the superintendent search. The process included community surveys, focus groups, student engagement opportunities, and listening sessions across the county. This provided a platform for thousands of students, families, educators, and community members. They shared feedback on the leadership qualities needed in the district’s next superintendent.
Dr. Estrella has more than 26 years of experience in education. She now serves as the superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools in Connecticut. She has held several leadership roles throughout her career. These were within the New York City Department of Education. She served as Superintendent of Community School District Four in East Harlem.
(Photo: Gwinnett County Public Schools)
During that time, she worked closely with the New York City Schools Chancellor. She also engaged senior leadership to implement system wide initiatives. These initiatives focused on improving teaching and learning outcomes.
Dr. Estrella also founded Esperanza Preparatory Academy. It is a dual-language middle and high school. The school is designed to expand academic opportunity. It also strengthens college preparation for students.
Throughout her career, she has focused on strengthening instruction. She has worked on developing school leaders. She has also improved student outcomes through strategic and data-informed leadership.
In a statement after the announcement, Board Chair Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan praised Estrella’s leadership experience and vision.
“Gwinnett County Public Schools is a remarkable district filled with talented students, dedicated educators, and a community that believes in the power of education,” Johnson-Morgan said. “Dr. Estrella is a brilliant educator and experienced superintendent who understands how to lead complex systems with clarity and purpose.”
Johnson-Morgan added that Estrella’s data-centered leadership and commitment to students show the values of Gwinnett County Public Schools.
Dr. Estrella also released a statement expressing appreciation for being selected as the sole finalist.
“I’m honored to be considered the sole finalist for this esteemed position and to join a community so deeply committed to investing today for a better tomorrow,” Estrella said.
She added that she believes in developing educators, leaders, and staff. This development is meant to create the conditions necessary to support every student. She emphasized the importance of community engagement in decision-making.
“It has been an honor to serve the students, families, staff, Board, and community during this important time for Gwinnett County Public Schools,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Al Taylor, who also thanked the Board and community members for their participation throughout the search process.
The Board of Education said it looks anticipates to supporting Dr. Estrella through the transition process as the district prepares for its next chapter of leadership.
Gwinnett County Public Schools serves more than 180,000 students and is the largest school district in Georgia.
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