Get to Know Tonya Grice, Black Student Achievement Program Liaison

June 2nd, 2026

The HCPSS Get To Know series features school system leaders who answer a mix of personal and professional questions in an effort to let employees, students and families get to know them better.

Why did you choose to work in education?

I grew up in a family of educated individuals who deeply believe in community service. My degree in biology initially opened doors for me to travel the world while working at NASA and in the insurance industry. While working with these two organizations, I always volunteered with youth outreach programs to mentor and tutor local students in math, health, and science. Eventually, a life re-evaluation made me realize my true calling was to mentor teenagers. I transitioned from corporate America to the Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP), spending two years empowering families at Harpers Choice Middle School before coming to Long Reach High School (LRHS), where I remain driven by my passion for helping students reach their full potential.

What is your role within HCPSS?

As the LRHS BSAP Liaison under the Department of Student Access and Achievement, my primary goal is to improve academic outcomes and promote access to education opportunities. This is achieved by student and family engagement, student attendance, support academic achievement, cultural awareness, leadership, social emotional wellness and advocacy. I also create workshops to prepare students for college and career opportunities, student voice activities, and community outreach for community service.

What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

To truly effect change in a student’s life, you must first build meaningful relationships with them, their families, and your co-workers. Every human being has a fundamental need to feel seen, heard, valued, and understood; without this foundation, frustration and self-doubt take over. Because of this advice, whenever I face a challenge, I ask myself a simple question: “What did I do, or fail to do, to prevent this person from being successful?”

What is something you like a lot that would surprise people?

I absolutely love swimming in the open ocean because the water brings me a profound sense of freedom and peace. I also have a deep passion for attending music festivals with my friends and family.

What is on your bucket list?

My bucket list evolves as I enjoy life, but my ultimate professional goal is to see every single one of my students successfully graduate with their cohort. Personally, my bucket list is to visit Asia and Australia. I would love to swim in the Great Barrier Reef.

What is the most interesting place you’ve ever been?

Having traveled to 18 countries, I highly recommend Spain for its incredible culture, rich history, welcoming people, music, and—most importantly—the food! I am always looking forward to finding my next great swimming spot.