Prior to assuming this role with AdvancED, Heather spent ten years working with a state department of education, in the Office of School Improvement, where she played a role in developing the statewide system of support and implementing No Child Left Behind, as well as managed data collection and reporting for state and federal accountability and compliance.

Mrs. Pugh's experience includes 17 years teaching at the secondary level; working with the Alabama Department of Education as an Education Specialist in Assessment and Accountability, and Curriculum and Instruction and working with the Alabama Math and Science Initiative. She served as Assistant Superintendent of Muscle Shoals City Schools in Muscle Shoals, Alabama where she was the Director of Federal Programs. Her most recent experience prior to AdvancED was as an Education Consultant with STI Student Achievement Services. Mrs. Pugh has extensive knowledge in ESSA protocols and regulations, instructional strategies and best practices, and Federal Programs.