*Tonetta will start the BES Fellowship in January 2027. BES Fellows have differentiated start dates to accommodate for varied authorizer timelines.
“I believe students deserve access to rigorous academics, strong character development, and meaningful exposure to future careers long before high school. I am ready to design a school model that consistently delivers for students and families. For me, this work is not just about opening a school. It is about building a pathway for students to see what is possible, develop the skills to pursue it, and become leaders who contribute back to their community.”
Tonetta’s roots are personal and family-centered—connected to her family’s legacy in Carrollton, GA, that spans generations through the Byrd family. Her aunts, uncles, and great-grandparents were well-known figures in the community. Her great-grandmother’s impact continues to be felt through an annual scholarship awarded at Antioch Baptist Church, embodying the values of faith, education, service, and investment in young people. Founding a school is a way for her to honor that legacy while creating expanded opportunities for the next generation.
Tonetta has more than 20 years of experience in education, serving in school-based, district, and executive leadership roles. She began her career as a teacher and has since served as an instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, and executive director of a charter school. Most recently, she served as Executive Director of Brighten Academy, where she led academics, operations, staff development, and organizational systems for a school community of more than 800 students and over 100 staff members. In that role, she worked across instruction, finance, governance, family engagement, staffing, compliance, and strategic planning.
Notable accomplishments Tonetta is most proud of include leading school improvement efforts, improving systems for instruction and adult practice, and being recognized as Principal of the Year. Across her leadership journey, she has consistently focused on building clear systems, developing adults, strengthening school culture, and improving outcomes for students.
Tonetta earned her bachelor’s degree in Middle Grades Education from Armstrong Atlantic State University, her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Scranton, and her Education Specialist degree in Educational Administration from Argosy University.
She also completed leadership development programs including the Harvard Turnaround School Leaders Program, the Atlanta Public Schools Aspiring Leaders Program, Relay/National Principal Academy Fellowship leadership training, and the Cahn Fellowship for Distinguished Principals. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education in School Improvement at the University of West Georgia, with an expected completion date of December 2027.
