Has 16 years experience in JCPS
By Mark Hebert
March 8, 2023—A graduate of a relatively new program to develop the next generation of school leaders has been named the new principal of Olmsted Academy North (OAN). Leroy Littles Sr. completed the Jefferson County Leadership Academy program this year and will take the helm at Olmsted North on March 13th.
“I am excited, honored, and privileged to take on the next chapter in my educational journey as the principal of Frederick Law Olmsted Academy North,” Littles said. “My passion is to be the intentional change that is needed to impact our student body. I look forward to growing, getting acquainted, and creating authentic relationships with the students and staff at OAN.”
Littles has spent more than 16 years in Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) as an English teacher at Doss and Butler High Schools and Minor Daniels Academy and the behavior coach at Minor Daniels and Valley High School. He was the the Assistant Principal for the Health and Science Academy at Valley before becoming a principal intern at Waggener High School earlier this school year.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to hire Mr. Littles to lead Olmsted North,” said Dr. Nate Meyer, Assistant Superintendent for Accelerated Improvement Schools. “His ability to connect with the young men, their families, and the staff at Olmsted North will continue to push the school on a positive trajectory. His range of educational experience and successful leadership opportunities will allow him to make an impact immediately.”
Littles has experience developing plans to improve the reading performance of students in schools in which he taught and using data to help teachers and schools close the achievement gap among students.
“My three core beliefs as an equity-centered leader are: high standards for all, decrease barriers and inequities for marginalized students, and create an inclusive environment where students and staff feel supported and sense of belonging,” Littles said.
Olmsted North’s new leader is a graduate of Western Kentucky University with a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Campbellsville University and Rank 1 certificates from Campbellsville and Georgetown College. Littles is a product of the Jefferson County Leadership Academy’s Principal Intern Program. The JCPS program’s goal is to create a pipeline for talented staff to move into school leadership roles by giving them a mentor and a year of training.
“I have enjoyed my time as a principal intern under the leadership of Dr. Sarah Hitchings and the staff at Waggener High School,” Littles added. “I look forward to using my learning experience and skills in partnership with families and staff to make Olmsted North a premiere middle school in JCPS. Go Colt Nation!”