About the Presenters

Dr. Monica Goldson, retired Chief Executive Officer of Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), served for 32 years. Initially a math teacher, she rose through administrative roles, becoming CEO. Notably, she pioneered a public-private partnership for school construction, leading to six new middle schools in two years and 17 new schools within five years. Her departure coincides with progress in mitigating pandemic-related learning disruptions, evident in PGCPS students outperforming peers in state assessments. Dr. Goldson holds degrees from HBCUs: a bachelor’s in mathematics from Florida A&M University, a master’s in elementary and secondary school administration from Bowie State University, and a doctorate in educational administration and policy from Howard University. She advises President Biden on HBCU matters and serves on the Maryland State Board of Education. Her achievements extend beyond education, earning her numerous awards and honors.

Kelly Johnson has served as Superintendent of Clinton City Schools for the past eight years. Prior to serving in her current role, she attended Carson Newman University and Lincoln Memorial University to obtain her Bachelor of Science degree in education and her master’s degree in administration. Her classroom experience includes teaching kindergarten, fourth, and fifth grades. In addition to her classroom experience, she served as Assistant Principal, Principal, and Supervisor of Elementary Education in Knox County Schools prior to moving to Clinton City Schools as Supervisor of Federal Programs and Curriculum and Instruction. Kelly is the proud mother of two adult children, Mallory and Andrew, and NanaK to her first grandchild, Samuel. She has been married for 31 years to her husband, Scott. In her free time, she enjoys music, the outdoors, and spending time with her family.

Rachel Floyd is currently the Supervisor of Reading Improvement and Instructional Coaches with Roanoke City Public Schools in Roanoke, VA. She has spent 19 years serving the students of Roanoke City as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and instructional supervisor. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Radford University and a Master of Education degree in educational administration from Lamar University. She is also a local LETRS Volume 1 and Volume 2 facilitator. Rachel is passionate about helping to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to support students on their learning journey.

Dr. Glenda Sheffield has dedicated 31 years to the Palm Beach County School District, showing a steadfast commitment to education in various influential roles. Starting as a teacher, she advanced through positions such as assistant principal and principal. Now, as Chief Academic Officer, she plays a crucial role in shaping the district’s academic policies and practices.

As a principal, Dr. Sheffield made significant strides in closing the achievement gap across all school levels. Her leadership fostered educational equity and improved student outcomes. She then served as Instructional Superintendent, mentoring middle and high school principals to enhance their leadership skills and school performance.

In her current role, Dr. Sheffield collaborates with district stakeholders to align curriculum resources, ensuring rigorous and standards-aligned instruction. She focuses on providing high-quality education for all students.

Dr. Sheffield also serves on the Board of Directors for the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, the Early Coalition of Palm Beach County, and the Florida Cognia Advisory Committee, supporting broader educational initiatives.

About the Moderator

Dr. Donna Wright has served in many roles in her 40-plus-year career as an educator. She has positively influenced the educational field as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, deputy director, and school superintendent.

Dr. Wright earned her Doctorate in Leadership Studies from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She has been published in numerous educational journals, invited to present at national and state conferences, and has served as an adjunct professor at various institutions of higher learning.

Although Dr. Wright recently retired from K-12 public education, she continues to support and consult with colleagues and school districts around the country. Currently, she serves as the AASA Lead Superintendent directing the National Women’s Leadership Consortium and collaborates with public school districts around the country.