Atlanta Independent School District is proud to announce the appointment of Donna Rice as the new Assistant Superintendent of Strategic Planning and Executive Director of the Atlanta Education Foundation. A dedicated educator with an impressive 44-year tenure in the district, Rice brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to fostering excellence in education within the AISD community.

Having dedicated her entire career to AISD, Rice began as a sixth-grade teacher, where she spent 25 years. She then transitioned into administration, serving as the first After School Director when AISD launched its after-school program. 

Rice's leadership skills further flourished in roles such as Public Relations Director, Assistant Principal at Atlanta Elementary School, Principal at Atlanta Primary School, and most recently, the Director of Blended Learning.

When the Atlanta Education Foundation was established in 2010, Rice was appointed as its first Executive Director, a role she is excited to take on again. 

She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Nazarene University, a master’s degree in education from East Texas State University, and a master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M University-Texarkana. Rice also possesses both principal and superintendent certifications.

In her dual roles, Rice will focus on key areas such as recruiting quality staff, instructional coaching and blended learning, while continuing AEF's work to support the students and staff of AISD. 

“I started teaching at the age of 21 for Atlanta ISD. My entire career has been with this incredible district,” Rice said. “Educating, mentoring, and pouring into the lives of teachers and students is my passion, and I’m honored to continue to serve in this new role.”

Superintendent Jason Harris praised the appointment, highlighting Rice's deep commitment to the district and her proven track record of leadership and innovation. 

“We glad to have Donna Rice in these critical roles within our district,” Harris said. “Her vast experience and dedication to our community will help us advance our strategic goals and build on the foundation’s successes."

Her responsibilities are effective immediately.