The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education announced new district leaders, including in Financial Services positions:
Jennifer Del Rosario as Director of Payroll
Stacy Long as Executive Director of Finance
Anita Hooker as Principal of Bolton Elementary School
Allison Thomas as Director of Social Work
The district has prioritized filling key leadership positions as part of its two-year action plan to further stabilize operations, standardize procedures, and strengthen accountability in Financial Services.
Del Rosario has 17 years of experience working in payroll services for eight enterprises across four states. She was most recently the Interim Payroll Consultant Director for LHH Recruitment Solutions in Greensboro. She prides herself on leading diverse teams, enhancing payroll systems, and driving operational excellence. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Shorter University and a Bachelor’s degree in business administration from York College.
“Managing payroll for a district as large as ours is a complex task with real, wide-reaching stakes for all of our employees,” Superintendent Don Phipps said. “Having an experienced professional who’s worked with a variety of systems and large organizations overseeing our payroll is key to our success as a district, and Jennifer Del Rosario fits the bill.”
Stacy Long joins the district following a career in wealth, compliance, and risk management with Wells Fargo. During her 27 years at Wells Fargo, she led a team of over 75 members to design and manage compliance programs, streamline finance processes, and increase efficiency. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Alabama A&M University.
“Stacy Long has a proven track record of responsible financial management that leads to lower costs and lower frustration,” said Superintendent Don Phipps. “Excellent monetary stewardship is essential to rebuilding trust with our district’s stakeholders, and I trust her to lead the way in our finance department.”
Hooker currently serves WS/FCS as a principal at Cook Literacy Model School, which will close at the end of the school year, and previously led Ashley Academy. Before that, she held administrative positions in Davie and Guilford County Schools. Hooker will start her new role July 1. She replaces Principal Dr. Cheryl Frazier, who is retiring.
“Mrs. Hooker was instrumental in Ashley’s continued improvement,” said Felicia Davis, Hooker’s area superintendent. “As principal of Cook Literacy Model School, she has helped maintain high expectations for instruction while supporting faculty, staff, families, and the community through the school’s upcoming closure. We are excited that she will continue her successful leadership as principal of Bolton Elementary School.
Thomas has served as a school social worker with WS/FCS since 2005, supporting students and families at East Forsyth High School, Petree Elementary School and the Children’s Center.
Prior to joining WS/FCS, Thomas worked with the Forsyth County Department of Social Services and The Children’s Home in Winston-Salem. She holds both Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS). Thomas will begin her new role on March 23.
“Allison Thomas is an exceptional leader whose work is consistently grounded in what is best for students,” said Executive Director of Student Services Dr. Clinton Wilson. “She leads with both expertise and heart, ensuring that systems of support are responsive, equitable, and student-centered. Her vision, integrity, and commitment to service make her highly deserving of this role.”
Del Rosario and Long’s start dates have not been set.