Of the 182,000 students enrolled in Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS), each one represents not only a future graduate but also a vital part of Gwinnett’s economic ecosystem. Let that sink in—182,000. That’s larger than the populations of many Georgia cities combined. It’s no wonder Dr. Al Taylor, interim superintendent for GCPS, had plenty to share during the Gwinnett Chamber’s annual State of the Schools program, presented by Porter Steel.
Sure, Taylor has only been at the helm for a short while, but leading the state’s largest school system—and the 11th largest in the nation—comes with staggering responsibilities and an even more staggering impact. He reminded attendees that GCPS is far more than a collection of classrooms. With over 24,000 employees—including 14,000 teachers—it is Gwinnett’s single largest employer and stands at the heart of Gwinnett’s economic and social infrastructure.
The school system also operates like the county’s largest restaurant, serving hundreds of thousands of meals each day. Its transportation system rivals that of many cities, safely carrying thousands of students across Gwinnett every morning and afternoon. Every one of these functions reinforces the reality that GCPS is both an educational cornerstone and an operational giant.
Taylor proudly noted that the district’s size is matched by its outcomes. GCPS continues to perform well on state milestones, while new initiatives are expanding early learning opportunities, enhancing technology in teaching, and strengthening student engagement and well-being. Looking forward, Taylor laid out plans that include strategic redistricting, outdoor learning expansion, and a renewed focus on aligning internal systems with long-term growth. As he explained, “Stable is not stagnant.” GCPS is a well-oiled machine, but stability does not mean standing still—it means sustaining high performance while continuing to innovate for the future.
Of course, the conversation wasn’t only about operations and achievement. With the superintendent search underway, Taylor emphasized the importance of community engagement. And Nick Masino, President & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber, amplified that call, “The strength of our business community is directly tied to the strength of our schools. I encourage every leader in Gwinnett to take the Board’s community survey and make their voice heard as we help shape the future of education in our county.”
From classroom teacher to district leader, Taylor’s career path reflects a deep commitment to the mission of teaching and learning. Today, he stands as the steward of one of the largest school systems in the nation—an institution that functions not only as an educational force but as Gwinnett’s most vital piece of infrastructure. And while he gives credit to his teachers, staff, and board for the system’s successes, his vision makes clear that GCPS is preparing both its students and its community for what comes next. Stable, yes. Stagnant, never.
To learn more about the superintendent search and to participate in the community survey, visit gcpsk12.org. And don’t miss our next On Topic: Transportation Talk featuring Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell McMurry. Details and registration are available at gwinnettchamber.org/on-topic.
