Meet Toshiba "T. RIce" Rice

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As a parent, community leader, and elected member of the Wake County Board of Education, I am committed to ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education in a safe, supportive, and equitable learning environment. I believe strong public schools are built through intentional governance, transparent communication, and meaningful partnerships with students, families, educators, and the community.

For more than twenty years, I have worked alongside families to help them navigate educational systems, access community resources, and advocate for services that support student success. My experience includes supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and helping families secure the educational, physical, emotional, and social supports necessary to thrive.

As a Board of Education member, my role is to govern, not manage the day-to-day operations of the district. My responsibility is to help establish the vision, priorities, policies, and accountability measures that guide the school system while ensuring decisions remain student-centered and aligned with the district's strategic goals.

I am committed to exercising my governance responsibilities by:

• Advocating for all students and ensuring every child has equitable access to educational opportunities and resources.
• Using data to inform decisions and promote transparency regarding student achievement, attendance, school climate, and student well-being.
• Developing and approving policies that strengthen teaching, learning, school safety, and organizational effectiveness.
• Providing fiscal oversight to ensure responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and investments that directly benefit students.
• Hiring, supporting, and evaluating the Superintendent to ensure district leadership remains accountable to student outcomes and community expectations.
• Engaging families and community stakeholders to elevate diverse voices and strengthen partnerships that support student success.
• Championing student well-being by promoting safe, healthy, and inclusive learning environments.
• Supporting educators and staff by advocating for resources, professional development, and workplace conditions that help them succeed.
• Maintaining transparency and accountability while upholding the public trust placed in elected officials.

I believe effective governance requires collaboration, active listening, and courageous leadership. While Board members do not direct the daily operations of schools or individual employees, we have a responsibility to ask thoughtful questions, analyze data, set priorities, and ensure systems are in place to help every student succeed.

My commitment is to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose while working alongside families, educators, community organizations, and fellow Board members to create meaningful opportunities for all students.

Together, we are Empowering Education, Elevating Communities.

Have a positive and productive day!℠

T. Rice