The Atlanta Board of Education welcomed both new and returning members to the Board at the Swearing-in Ceremony in the Alonzo A. Crim Center for Learning and Leadership Board Auditorium on Monday, January 12, 2026.
The Board, which consists of nine elected members, provides strategic direction to ensure the educational needs of students are met. Its core responsibilities include adopting policies to align with the district’s mission and vision; approving the annual budget, overseeing Atlanta Public Schools’ (APS) financial operations to ensure responsible resource allocation; and hiring, evaluating, and supervising the Superintendent.
“We’re so excited to welcome all of our new board members and the ones returning,” APS Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson said. “I’m excited about the skills, expertise, and talents that they bring to this work. I look forward to the work ahead.”
The administration of the Oath of Office was conducted by The Honorable Chief Magistrate Judge Cassandra Kirk, who was introduced by Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy senior, Anissah Baker.
Former Board Chair and District 5 representative Erika Mitchell, who was introduced by Drew Charter School senior Laila Shannon, completed the swearing-in with the official pinning of the elected members.
Board member Jennifer McDonald was reelected to represent District 4. Since joining APS in 2012, she has invested significant time serving in leadership positions. For years, she has supported and advocated for the path APS students are taking to be life-ready when they graduate.
Meet the Board: Jennifer McDonald’s
Tony Mitchell, Jr., a newly elected board member, will represent District 2. He is passionate about educating individuals on healthcare disparities and helping people find their voice through grassroots advocacy.
Meet the Board: Tony Mitchell, Jr.
Patreece Hutcherson, a newly elected board member, will represent District 6. She has been a professional school counselor with over 23 years of experience in elementary, middle, and high schools. She understands student growth and advocates for students, families, and the broader community, while preparing students for life beyond high school.
Meet the Board: Patreece Hutcherson
Dr. Kaycee Brock, a newly elected board member, will represent At-Large Seat 8. She started her career in education as a first-grade teacher in 2007, and over the past 10 years has accumulated extensive experience in building and leading college and career readiness programs for schools and networks.
Meet the Board: Dr. Kaycee Brock
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the complete board selected Board Member Jessica Johnson (At-Large, Seat 9) as Chair, and Dr. Ken Zeff (District 3) as Vice Chair.
“It’s time to roll up our sleeves and collaborate with our Superintendent to ensure that the strategic plan for our district is fully actualized to the community,” Board Chair Johnson said. “We’ve made some commitments, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to lean in a little further and listen a little bit longer to the needs and priorities across our district.”
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