DeKalb GA News

Monika Davis, the recently retired Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the DeKalb County School District (DCSD), has left a lasting impact on technology leadership and representation. A pivotal moment in her career occurred at a District technology fair when a young African American student realized that the top technology official was a Black woman. "People didn’t realize I was the CIO because they’re not expecting a Black woman to be a CIO," Davis recalled.

According to CIO.com, only 3.7 percent of all CIO positions in the US are held by Black IT leaders, with an even smaller fraction being women. Davis's leadership in digital transformation within Georgia’s third-largest school district served as proof to that young girl that technology leadership is accessible.

Davis's journey began as a personal one. She graduated from Redan High School and studied Computer Science at Georgia Institute of Technology before transferring to Georgia State University to complete her degree in sociology. Her career in education started as a paraprofessional with DCSD, where she combined her passions for technology and education.

Throughout her career, Davis advanced through various roles, inspired by mentors like Ramona Tyson, DCSD’s first Black woman CIO. "She was an incredible mentor and helped me move forward," Davis said.

Davis led initiatives such as IGNITE U and managed virtual learning efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her focus remained on enhancing student experiences through digital literacy. "At the end of the day, for Monika, it is all about digital literacy," she said.

Despite facing challenges including racial and gender-based microaggressions, Davis remained committed to her role for students' benefit. "I love a good challenge because I always rise to the occasion," she stated.

Davis retired on November 30, 2024, after three decades dedicated to ensuring meaningful digital learning for every DCSD student. Superintendent Dr. Devon Q. Horton praised her contributions: “Monika has been a cornerstone of our commitment to innovation."

In retirement, Davis plans to continue supporting educational technology initiatives within DCSD and beyond. She hopes her legacy will be defined by bridging education and technology while serving children.

"There is a lot of work to be done regarding educational technology," she noted. For those inspired by her story—like the little girl who discovered that Black girls can lead in tech—Davis remains an enduring symbol of representation and possibility.