Principal's Corner

Dr. Kia Payne is an experienced educational leader with 19 years of experience in education, specializing in instructional leadership, special education, and school improvement. She serves as the principal and instructional leader of the prestigious Cora L. Rice Elementary School in Prince George’s County Public Schools, where she leads with a clear focus on academic excellence, equity, and the development of the whole child.

Dr. Payne holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management from Hampton University, a Master of Education in Special Education from Bowie State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Morgan State University. 

Outside of education, Dr. Payne enjoys shopping, roller skating, attending conferences, and traveling.

She is the proud mother of a son who attends Winston-Salem State University. Affectionately penned the “Champion of Children” by her mentor, a title that reflects her unwavering advocacy for students and families.