Foothills Regional High School is proud to announce the hiring of Dr. Donna Jo Dillard as Co-Site Director for the Clarke Foothills site. With nearly three decades of experience in public education, Dr. Dillard brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and a deep commitment to student success.
Dr. Dillard has dedicated her 29-year career to fostering academic excellence, strengthening school communities, and creating safe, inclusive environments where all students can thrive. She has served in multiple school systems across Georgia, including Henry, Jackson, Commerce City, Banks, and Gwinnett counties, gaining a broad perspective on meeting the diverse needs of students and families.
Her career began in the classroom as a middle grades science and math teacher, where she quickly developed a passion for building meaningful connections with students both academically and beyond. Over the years, she has served as an elementary and middle school teacher as well as an assistant principal at both the middle and high school levels. In these roles, she has led initiatives focused on improving student achievement, expanding college and career readiness opportunities, and strengthening teacher collaboration.
Most recently, Dr. Dillard served as an assistant principal at Seckinger High School in Gwinnett County, where she provided instructional leadership, supported multilingual learners, coordinated student support programs, and helped lead schoolwide initiatives to enhance teaching and learning.
Dr. Dillard holds a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Mercer University, a Master’s degree in Science Education, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Georgia. Her extensive certifications include educational leadership, science, special education, and ESOL.
Guided by the belief that every student has unique potential, Dr. Dillard’s leadership philosophy centers on setting high expectations, providing meaningful support, and celebrating progress along the way. Her approach aligns closely with Foothills’ mission to provide flexible, supportive pathways for students to earn their high school diploma and become future-ready graduates.
“I am excited to join the Foothills family and work alongside such a dedicated team,” said Dr. Dillard. “I look forward to building strong relationships with students, staff, and families as we continue to support every student’s path to graduation and beyond.”
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Dillard enjoys sewing, reading, walking, traveling, and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs. She is especially proud of her role as a grandmother to 14 grandchildren.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Dillard to the Foothills team.