Roanoke City Public Schools is deeply saddened by the passing of former Superintendent Dr. Rita Bishop. Dr. Bishop, who passed away on Friday, May 23, 2025, was a dedicated leader, educator, and champion for students, staff, and the Roanoke community.

A celebration of life will be held in Dr. Bishop's memory at noon on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, at St. Andrew's Catholic Church (631 N. Jefferson Street).

Dr. Bishop first served RCPS as Assistant Superintendent for Instruction before being named Superintendent in 2007. She led the division until her retirement in 2020. During her 13 years as Superintendent in Roanoke City, Dr. Bishop introduced programs and ideas that shaped RCPS into the school division it is today and was honored as Virginia’s 2014 Superintendent of the Year for her work.

“Dr. Bishop’s work established a foundation of academic excellence that continues to support our students today,” Superintendent Dr. Verletta White said. “We are grateful for her vision and service. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and former colleagues at this difficult time.”

Under Dr. Bishop’s leadership, every RCPS school earned full accreditation in 2018 — a first in the division’s history. The graduation rate also rose more than 30 points, from 59% in 2007 to a record-high 90% by 2018.

One of Dr. Bishop’s first accomplishments after she was appointed in 2007 was to create Forest Park Academy to help students graduate on time. She increased access to summer programming through RCPS+, expanded access to fine arts and honors courses, and increased access to affordable college opportunities through a partnership with Virginia Western Community College.

She also made school safety a top priority. Dr. Bishop strengthened partnerships with law enforcement, advocated for school resource offices, and commissioned audits for safer schools.

“She was a bold leader and committed to serving our students,” said Dr. Eli Jamison, Chair of the Roanoke City School Board. “I was honored to first be appointed to the School Board during her tenure, and I witnessed her dedication to equity and innovation. Her impact is still felt in the opportunities our students have today.”

“Today, RCPS continues to build on the foundation that Dr. Bishop championed by maintaining a high graduation rate, expanding opportunities in the arts, and strengthening partnerships that support student safety and well-being. Dr. Bishop’s legacy will live on for generations to come as we build upon her work,” Dr. White said.

Dr. Bishop began her career in San Jose, California, as an English and speech teacher. Over the years, she served in many roles — counselor, vice principal, principal, and Central Office leader — before moving to Roanoke in the 1990s. She also served as Superintendent in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania from 2004 to 2007.

Her impact lives on in the continued success of RCPS students. Roanoke City Public Schools extends its condolences to Dr. Bishop’s family, friends, and former colleagues.