Atasha M. James has built a career defined by vision, purpose and a relentless commitment to transforming education through innovation and equity. As co-founder and chief executive officer of Legends Public Charter School in Prince George’s County, Maryland, she oversees all facets of school operations with a focus on cultivating academic excellence and community empowerment. In this capacity, she leads a team of nearly 200 professionals, including administrators, teachers and support staff, and is responsible for the academic and personal development of 900 scholars. She manages the AmeriCorps program and related initiatives, ensuring enrollment goals align with fiscal sustainability. Working simultaneously as a chief academic officer, she continues to refine and implement the school’s signature design while advancing strategic priorities in performance, leadership and financial stewardship.
Ms. James’ academic foundation has been central to her success. She completed coursework toward a Doctor of Education in educational leadership and administration at the University at Buffalo. She earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Master of Education in elementary education from the same institution. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in health and human services with a concentration in early childhood from the State University of New York at Buffalo. In addition, she has a school district leadership certificate from the University at Buffalo, a permanent pre-kindergarten through grade six New York State teaching license, and provisional New York State certifications in school administration, supervision and district leadership.
Ms. James is also co-founder of Equitable Ink, LLC, a venture she helped establish to advance fairness and inclusion within education systems and organizational structures. Through this platform, she has worked to promote equitable practices, professional growth and innovative school design. Her professional expertise spans organizational leadership, school design and innovation, cognitive coaching, curriculum development, and data-informed instruction. She is adept in adaptive diagnostic assessment methodologies, literacy and mathematics placement, and school culture development, all of which have guided her in leading schools toward measurable improvement and sustained success.
Before leading Legends Public Charter School, Ms. James was a principal and mentor at Leckie Education Campus within the District of Columbia Public Schools. During her tenure, she improved school culture, strengthened instructional practices and elevated student performance. Her leadership earned recognition from the Washington Post, which featured her achievements in academic reform and staff development. Earlier in her career, she was assistant principal at the Odenton Regional Program for Emotionally and Behaviorally Disturbed Students in Anne Arundel County Public Schools, where she provided vital support for students with diverse learning and behavioral needs. She also served as assistant principal with Buffalo Public Schools, leading initiatives in curriculum design, instructional evaluation and school climate improvement.
Ms. James began her career as a middle school science teacher with Cheektowaga Central School District, where she honed her skills in curriculum development, literacy placement and diagnostic assessment. She also contributed to higher education as a teacher education associate adjunct at the University at Buffalo, preparing aspiring educators for the classroom through instruction and mentorship.
Ms. James’ thought leadership is reflected in her published works, including “Leckie Elementary School Students Get Hip to Urban Agriculture,” featured by the Green Schools National Network, and “Planting Seeds of Service,” recognized by The White House for its community impact. Beyond her professional roles, she is deeply involved in community and professional organizations. She serves as co-chair of the Maryland Alliance of Public Charter Schools, is a Manati Fellow with the National Charter Collaborative and is an active member of the National Association of Elementary School Principals. She is also a founding board member of The Young Miss Buffalo Pageant, which promotes youth empowerment and leadership.
Building on her dedication to equity, Ms. James’ commitment to service extends to her work as co-founder and former chief executive officer of Equity Now, Inc., an organization dedicated to advancing education reform. She has also served as an education advisor for the Washington Redskins Charitable Foundation and as a consultant for the School-wide Integrated Framework for Transformation and the PEAK Parent Center in Denver. Her leadership continues to shape the educational landscape, leaving an enduring impact on students, families and communities alike.