The Atlanta Board of Education (ABOE) today announces the selection of Dr. Danielle Battle as interim superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools (APS) pending Board approval on Aug. 7. Superintendent Dr. Lisa Herring will transition from her role as Superintendent by the end of August. 

“We appreciate Dr. Herring for her leadership, vision and service to APS, especially during an unprecedented time that impacted us all. We look forward to working closely with her, in this new role, and with Dr. Battle to ensure a seamless transition as we continue our work to advance educational outcomes for our students,” said ABOE Board Chair Eshé Collins. 

“As a life-long champion for student success, I am exceedingly proud of the progress made in the classroom and across this school district during my tenure. The 150-year legacy of Atlanta Public Schools is one driven by excellence. I welcome working closely with Dr. Battle over the next few months to capitalize on the growth and gains achieved by our young scholars and to build upon our rich history of educational excellence,” said Superintendent Herring.  

No stranger to APS, Dr. Battle held a wide variety of leadership positions over her 19-year career in the District. Prior to her retirement in June 2021, Dr. Battle served as Principal of Parkside Elementary and Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, Associate Superintendent and Interim Chief of Schools and Academics. She joined APS after 11 years as a teacher and principal in North Carolina.

As Interim Superintendent, Dr. Battle will continue to support District-wide efforts to propel APS’ high-performing and caring learning culture. She will collaborate with ABOE to implement strategic visions and advance the District towards its goals.

“We are extremely thrilled to welcome our students back and launch another incredible school year. Our responsibility and obligation to our APS students, families and employees remain our top priorities and will be mirrored in the thoughtful and considerate selection of our next Superintendent and throughout this time of transition. Dr. Battle will continue to advance the Board’s goals around literacy and numeracy proficiency, post-graduation preparedness, and college and career readiness. With strong roots in the community, we know Dr. Battle will collaborate well with administrators and staff, and effectively engage with all constituent groups during her time as our Interim Superintendent,” Collins added.

In addition to selecting Dr. Battle as interim superintendent, the Board will vote on the transition agreement with Superintendent Herring. She will transition from her position early on Aug. 31 and serve as a consultant for APS through Dec. 31 

In July, ABOE announced the process of selecting a national search firm to help identify the next Superintendent, who will start in July 2024. This selection is currently underway.