AFPI Welcomes Erika Donalds as Chair of the Center for Education Opportunity and Chair of the AFPI-Florida State Chapter 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) announced that Erika Donalds, a prominent advocate for education reform and dedicated community leader, will join AFPI as Chair of the Center for Education Opportunity and Chair of the AFPI-Florida State Chapter. Donalds’ leadership will drive AFPI’s mission to empower parents, expand educational opportunities, and advance the principles of the America First movement in Florida and beyond.

As Chair of the Center for Education Opportunity, Donalds will champion policies prioritizing parental choice, improve educational outcomes, and expand access to innovative learning models. In her role as Chair of the Florida State Chapter, she will lead initiatives to advance state-based solutions that align with America First principles, including fostering economic growth, safeguarding individual freedoms, and empowering Florida families.

“Erika Donalds brings a wealth of experience and an unrelenting passion for ensuring every child has access to the high-quality education they deserve,” said Chad Wolf, Executive Director of AFPI. “Her leadership in education reform and commitment to parental empowerment make her the ideal person to lead these efforts as we work to restore excellence in education and strengthen communities across Florida and the nation.”

Donalds is the Founder and Chairman of OptimaEd, a national leader in education solutions offering public charter schools and virtual learning platforms. She also served as a Collier County School Board member and was appointed to Florida’s Constitutional Revision Commission, where she worked to expand school choice and accountability in education. Donalds is a fierce advocate for empowering parents to take an active role in their children’s education, ensuring students have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

"I am honored to take on these roles with the America First Policy Institute," said Donalds. "Working with AFPI on education reform nationally and championing America-first initiatives in my home state of Florida provides an opportunity to drive meaningful change in areas I am passionate about. I look forward to advancing policies that prioritize individual liberties, parental rights, and the values that make America exceptional, both in Florida and across the nation."

With Donalds’ leadership, the Center for Education Opportunity and the AFPI-Florida State Chapter will expand their reach and impact, working to restore excellence in education and ensure Florida remains a model for America First solutions.