Atlanta ISD is proud to announce that longtime Atlanta High School leader Nancy Rinehart has been named the district’s next Executive Director of Instructional Programs, effective June 2026.

A dedicated educator with 28 years of service at Atlanta ISD, Rinehart brings a deep understanding of student needs, campus leadership, and instructional excellence to this districtwide role. She will lead efforts to strengthen instruction across all campuses, support professional development, and ensure that programs and resources are strategically connected to student needs. 

Rinehart has spent nearly three decades at Atlanta High School, where she served 10 years as an English teacher, five years as an assistant principal, and 13 years as principal. During her tenure, the high school experienced significant growth and facility improvements, including the addition of a new Career and Technical Education building, renovations to the cheer hall and foyer, and upgrades to the counseling and career center, enhancements that have expanded opportunities and support systems for students.

Her leadership has also contributed to a strong culture of excellence and pride, with Atlanta High School earning recognition among the top-performing schools in the state, including a Top 10 finish in the 3A Texas Lone Star Cup in 2019.

Prior to joining Atlanta ISD, she taught special education at Linden-Kildare CISD and taught English in Missouri, Hawaii, and Kansas. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Missouri Southern State University and her master’s degree from Texas A&M University–Texarkana.

Her impact has been recognized across the region and state. Rinehart was named Region 8 High School Principal of the Year in 2022 and was a finalist for Texas High School Principal of the Year. She is also a former H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards semifinalist, a Region 8 Assistant Principal of the Year, and a Region 8 ESC Thriving Leader. She has contributed to the profession through her service with the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals as an Assistant Regional Coordinator and on various committees.

Beyond her administrative leadership, Rinehart has consistently invested in students through extracurricular and academic programs. As cheer sponsor, her teams earned multiple honors, and as a literary criticism and ready writing sponsor, her students achieved success at the state level. She has also coached basketball, volleyball, and Little League softball and served as an umpire.

“I’ve had the privilege of spending my career at Atlanta High School, and I’m grateful for the relationships that make this place feel like home,” Rinehart said. “I’m especially proud of the students we’ve served, the educators who have grown into leaders, and the lasting connections that bring so many of our graduates back to visit. Seeing my own children, Matthew and Rebecca, graduate from Atlanta High School makes this community even more special to me. Even though I wasn’t born here, I truly bleed maroon.”

In her new role, Rinehart will lead districtwide efforts to strengthen teaching and learning, including overseeing curriculum and instruction, supporting professional development for educators, managing state and federal programs, and ensuring campuses have the resources and support needed to help every student succeed. 

“I’m honored to step into this role and to serve students and educators across every Atlanta ISD campus,” Rinehart said. “From the classroom to professional development to the resources we provide, every piece plays a role in student success. I’m excited to work alongside our educators to continue strengthening opportunities for all students.” 

Superintendent Jason Harris said Rinehart’s leadership makes her an exceptional fit for the role.

“Mrs. Rinehart is a trusted and respected leader who brings both experience and heart to her work,” Harris said. “She has a proven ability to build strong systems, develop leaders, and keep students at the center of every decision. Her leadership will strengthen our district’s ability to serve every learner and support every campus.”

In addition to her work in education, Rinehart is active at First Baptist Church in Atlanta, where she has supported the children’s choir, taught Sunday School, and volunteered with Vacation Bible School.

Rinehart will continue serving as principal of Atlanta High School through the end of the school year, with her transition into the Executive Director of Instructional Programs role beginning in June. Additional leadership updates for the 2026–2027 school year will be shared in the coming weeks.