Dr. Steve Moats serves as Chief Operating Officer of the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative (GRREC), where he oversees Finance and Accounting, Human Resources, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Event Planning, Facilities, and Technology. As a member of GRREC’s executive leadership team, he works closely with the CEO and senior leaders to ensure strategic alignment, operational excellence, and high-quality service to member districts.

Dr. Moats brings more than 36 years of experience in public education, spanning classroom teaching, school and district leadership, state-level reform, and regional educational service. His leadership is grounded in a deep understanding of school culture and a firm belief that strong systems exist to serve people — especially educators and students. Throughout his career, he has focused on building sustainable structures that elevate teaching, strengthen leadership capacity, and create learning environments where all students can thrive.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Moats served as Assistant Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer for the Russellville Independent School District. Earlier in his career, he was a Kentucky Distinguished Educator and later directed the Tennessee Exemplary Educators Program, recognized as one of Harvard University’s Top 50 Innovations in American Government. He also held executive leadership roles at Edvantia, Inc., including Director of the Appalachia Regional Comprehensive Center.

Dr. Moats earned his Ed.D. in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University. He remains committed to collaborative leadership, thoughtful strategic planning, and cultivating organizational cultures that balance accountability with care.

Outside of his professional work, he enjoys gardening, researching his ancestry, traveling, and hosting gatherings that bring friends and community together.