With profound sadness, the Roanoke community mourns the passing of Dr. Rita Bishop, a distinguished educator, visionary leader, and unwavering advocate for public education. Dr. Bishop passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by passion, dedication, and transformative change in the lives of countless students and educators.
Dr. Bishop retired in 2020 after serving as Superintendent of Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS) since 2007, capping off a remarkable career in education that spanned decades and crossed states. Under her steadfast leadership, RCPS reached historic milestones: every school achieved full accreditation for the first time, the district’s graduation rate increased by more than 30 percentage points, and a renewed, system-wide focus on school safety was implemented—changes that continue to shape and strengthen the district today.
Born in 1948, Dr. Bishop began her career in San Jose, California, as an English and Speech teacher. Her early years in the classroom were only the beginning of a career devoted to elevating student achievement and championing educational equity. She served in numerous roles throughout her life—School Counselor, Vice Principal, Principal, and Central Office administrator—before joining RCPS in the mid-1990s as Assistant Superintendent for Instruction.
Her journey later took her to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where she served as Superintendent, but her enduring commitment to Roanoke led her back in 2007 to lead the school division she so deeply believed in.
Dr. Bishop was known not only for her professional accomplishments but for her sharp intellect, strong moral compass, and genuine compassion for students, families, and educators. Her belief in the power of public education never wavered, and her influence is still felt in classrooms and communities across Roanoke and beyond.
She is remembered by colleagues, former students, and community members as a transformative force, a fierce advocate for children, and a woman of deep conviction and service.
A memorial service to honor Dr. Bishop’s life and contributions will be announced by her family in the coming days.
Dr. Rita Bishop’s legacy is one of hope, progress, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. Her memory will continue to inspire generations to come.
