Dr. Regina B. Holley

Dr. Regina B. Holley is currently board president of the School District of Pittsburgh, providing oversight of a school district of almost 25,000 students in grades PreK-12 and a budget of $570.4 million. Dr. Holley, first elected to represent District 2 in 2011, is a long-time educator and school leader who retired in 2010 after 35 years with the Pittsburgh Public Schools. Prior to serving on the Board of Directors, Dr. Holley served for 16 years as principal of Pittsburgh Lincoln K-5, a neighborhood school with an emphasis on technology and pre-engineering. During her tenure as principal, Dr. Holley raised the performance of her students to achieve No Child Left Behind-Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), increased student achievement higher-than-district average, received the Title One School of the Year Award from the PA Department of Education, transformed the school into a technology & pre-engineering academy, initiated a PSSA-prep Saturday academy, and more. Believing that learning extended beyond the classroom, her legacy at Pittsburgh Lincoln lives on as current leadership honors her traditions. Dr. Holley has been an agent for change throughout the school district. Recently, she has worked tirelessly with Board and District leaders to ensure a smooth transition as Pittsburgh Public Schools form an educational partnership to welcome 164 students from Wilkinsburg School District (WSD) in grades 7-12 to Pittsburgh Westinghouse this school year. Also, Dr. Holley is currently leading the call for the District’s restorative practice. Through this work, Dr. Holley wants to establish activities, curriculum and professional development to improve school safety in a sustainable, effective way. Ultimately, a safer school environment will transform the way teachers lead and how students learn and interact with each other improving outcomes post-high school. In addition to her work in public education, Dr. Holley is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she serves as chairperson of the education committee. Dr. Holley is also Board President for Naomi’s Place, a non-profit providing transitional and permanent housing as well as workforce and educational programs for women in need. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Slipper Rock University, a master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Pittsburgh, and a doctorate degree in Curriculum and Supervision, also from the University of Pittsburgh