Thursday, April 16, 2026
-News Release-
Breaking barriers. Building systems. Changing lives.
Those are not just phrases. They define the leadership of Rome City Schools Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland.
On Wednesday in Savannah, the Georgia School Superintendents Association recognized Dr. Holland with the prestigious Marvin E. Lewis Sr. Trailblazer Award, honoring superintendents who break barriers, expand opportunity, and champion equitable outcomes for all students.
Dr. Holland’s journey reflects the very promise of public education.
Raised by a mother, Dr. Holland understands adversity firsthand. But he also understands opportunity.
“Public education gave me my ABCs: Access, Belonging, and Community,” Holland said. “That’s why I stand here not just as a superintendent, but as a product of what is possible when the system works.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Holland has turned barriers into breakthroughs.
He made history as:
- The first Black principal of Rome High School
- The first Black male principal of Marietta High School
- The first Black superintendent in the 140-year history of Rome City Schools
But for Dr. Holland, being “first” was never the goal.
“It was the responsibility,” he said. “Because when you are the first, you have a duty to make sure you are not the last.”
From Representation to Results
Dr. Holland’s leadership is defined not by symbolism but by measurable impact.
As principal of Rome High School, he led historic academic progress, including the highest graduation rate in school history and significant gains in Black student achievement. The school was removed from the state Focus List and earned national recognition as a U.S. News & World Report Best High School.
As superintendent, that success has expanded across the district:
- Graduation rate:7% (historic high)
- Black student graduation rate:79%
- Dual enrollment: Increased from 213 to 348 students
- AP participation: Increased from 372 to 460 students
- CTAE pathway completion:3%
- CCRPI score: Increased from 67.8 to 73.1
- 6 of 8 schools showing academic growth
“These results represent more than numbers,” Holland said. “They represent students who now believe they belong, students who now see opportunity, and students who now see themselves in leadership.”
Building Systems That Last
Dr. Holland’s leadership extends beyond outcomes; he has built systems designed for sustainability.
Through initiatives like Literacy Before Life, leadership development pipelines, and strategic partnerships with institutions such as Kennesaw State University, Berry College, and Shorter University, Rome City Schools is developing both students and educators.
A paraprofessional-to-teacher pipeline is growing local talent, while over 20 staff members have earned advanced degrees under his leadership.
“Leadership is not defined by what you accomplish while you are there,” Holland said. “It is defined by what continues after you leave.”
Safe, Stable, and Supportive Schools
Under Dr. Holland’s leadership, safety and culture have become foundational priorities.
- All schools earned the Georgia Ready Seal of Preparedness
- Advanced security systems implemented across campuses
- 90% staff retention rate
- 67% employee attendance
- Increased staff satisfaction
These efforts have created environments where students can learn, teachers can teach, and leaders can lead.
Strong Governance and Fiscal Responsibility
Dr. Holland has also strengthened the district’s financial position and governance practices:
- Fund balance increased by more than 125%
- Clean audits and transparent financial reporting
- Budget aligned to strategic priorities
- GSBA Exemplary Board Recognition (2024–2026)
This approach ensures long-term stability while continuing to invest in students and staff.
A Leader Who Multiplies Leadership
Beyond Rome, Dr. Holland is known across Georgia as a mentor and advocate for public education.
“Dr. Holland exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose,” said Dr. Duke Bradley III, Superintendent of Newton County Schools. “He balances results, relationships, and a deep commitment to developing others.”
Cartersville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Marc Feuerbach echoes those same sentiments when talking about the impact that Dr. Holland has made at Rome City Schools.
“Dr. Holland has demonstrated the ability to lead with a clear strategic vision, particularly in the areas of instructional consistency and fiscal management. His leadership has resulted in measurable gains across the district, characterized by improved graduation rates, a strengthened financial fund balance, and the expansion of advanced academic pathways for students. He has also been instrumental in prioritizing school safety and creating professional pipelines to support staff development.”
A Humble Leader, A Lasting Vision
Despite the recognition, Dr. Holland remains grounded in purpose.
“I wasn’t chosen as a chance. I was chosen as a choice,” he said. “And with that choice comes responsibility.”
Looking ahead, his vision is clear:
“Success will not be defined by one leader being recognized,” Holland said. “It will be defined by opportunity being normalized when leadership reflects our students, and when the systems we build continue long after we are gone.”
About the Trailblazer Award
The Marvin E. Lewis Sr. Trailblazer Award recognizes superintendents who break barriers, advocate for equity, and create lasting impact in public education.
Through his leadership in Rome City Schools and across Georgia, Dr. Eric L. Holland is doing exactly that, turning opportunity into outcomes and ensuring the next generation not only succeeds, but leads.
