Natasha Rachell

About Natasha Rachell

I serve as the Director of Instructional Technology for Atlanta Public Schools, where I lead districtwide efforts to ensure technology meaningfully strengthens teaching and learning for thousands of students and educators. My work focuses on aligning innovation with strong instructional practices, empowering teachers, expanding opportunities for students, and helping schools prepare learners for a rapidly evolving digital world. Throughout my career, I have worked across multiple levels of education, from classroom teacher to instructional coach to district leader, giving me a deep understanding of the systems, supports, and professional learning educators need to thrive. Today, I lead a team that partners directly with schools to design engaging, equitable, and tech-enhanced learning experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in every classroom. I am passionate about building strategic partnerships and innovative programs that open doors for students. From launching technology-rich learning environments and student innovation initiatives to expanding opportunities in emerging areas such as AI, digital media, and esports pathways, my goal is always the same: to ensure that every student has access to learning experiences that prepare them for college, career, and life. At the heart of my work is a simple belief: Technology should amplify great teaching, not replace it. I am always excited to collaborate with educators, organizations, and partners who are committed to shaping the future of learning.

Experience

1. Director of Instructional Technology

   Atlanta Public Schools

   Jul 2021 — Present · Atlanta, GA, US

   Builds strong and positive working relationships and partnerships with peers, community partners, and diverse stakeholders.Demonstrates knowledge of learning management systems and a variety of digital tools.Demonstrates successful project planning, development, and delivery, including implementation of complex projects.Develops effective and cooperative working relationships with APS departments and employees.Effectively communicates verbally and in writing, including the ability to convey complex and technical subjects in a clear, concise, and positive manner.Directs and manages the team that will develop, communicate, implement, and evaluates strategic plans and programs that incorporate technology into teaching and learning.Develops, implements, and evaluates face-to-face, blended, and online models of professional learning and instructional programs necessary to support a standards-aligned, digital-age education for all students.Expands educators’ awareness of what is currently possible in digital learning environments and increases parent, student, and staff access to quality digital tools and resources through the promotion and use of the administrator, parent, student, and teacher portals.Collaborates with district and school-based staff to ensure that technology standards for students are implemented, assessed, and supported by a comprehensive K-12 scope and sequence and technology-integrated curriculum alignments.Assesses student learning needs and designs, develops, and implements technology activities and programs to meet those needs.

Education

• Lincoln Memorial University

  Educational Specialist, Curriculum and Instruction

  2010

• Morris Brown College

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Biology, General

  1999

• Grand Canyon University

  Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in Effective Schools

  2020

• Grand Canyon University

  Master of Education (M.Ed.), Education Administration

  2009