Melissa Laramie comes to GCPS from the Kent School District in Washington state, where she was the executive director of communications and public affairs. GCPS Superintendent Calvin Watts led the Kent School District prior to being hired to lead Gwinnett schools last summer.
Laramie has served as the executive director of communications and public affairs for the Kent School District since 2018. Prior to that, she spent several years with the Puget Sound Educational Service District in Washington state, serving as an executive assistant from 2001 until 2013, a senior communications coordinator from 2013 until 2015 and director of communications and public relations from 2015 until 2017.
She was also the general manager of ColorsNW Magazine from 2004 until 2009.
Laramie earned her bachelor’s degree in applied sociology/social work from Seattle University and her master’s degree in communication and leadership from Gonzaga University.
Dr. Tashlein is a non-voting member of the Foundation Board.