We're thrilled to have your child join our Eagle family. Together, we can create a supportive and enriching learning environment where your child can thrive.
At J. B. Atkinson, we believe that all students can and will achieve their full potential. Our focus on reading and literacy is rooted in the understanding that strong reading skills are essential for success in all subjects.
J. B. Atkinson is more than just a school; it's a community. We value the partnership between parents, guardians, teachers, and the administration. Together, we can create a positive and supportive learning environment for all students.
How You Can Help
Read Aloud Daily: Encourage your child to read aloud to you every day. This helps build fluency and confidence.
Stay Involved: Participate in school events and activities to stay connected to your child's education.
J.B. Atkinson is committed to preparing all students to be college and career ready by educating the whole child while supporting families and the community.
Our dedicated team of educators is committed to providing a high-quality education. Dr. Arivia Parks, our principal, has been principal since 2022 and has been a JCPS employee for over 17 years. Heather Cicchiello Wright, our assistant principal, brings a wealth of experience in classroom teaching, reading instruction, and educational leadership.
JBA has many excellent teachers, including teachers who have spent their whole careers teaching at J. B. Atkinson! Some of our teachers are National Board Certified and award winners.
Welcome JBA families!
I am the principal, Dr. Arivia Parks. This will be my third year serving as principal, and I am excited for the new school year!
My passion comes from giving back to kids and letting them know no matter where they come from, they can be successful in their own right, whatever that may be! That doesn’t always look like college graduation for some students.
I have 20 years of experience in education and previously worked as an assistant principal at Whitney Young Elementary, a student response team coach at King Elementary, and a teacher at Maupin, Engelhard, Wheatley, and Bates Elementary schools.
I have earned a Doctorate in educational leadership from Argosy University, a Rank I in gifted and talented education from Indiana University Southeast, a Master of Arts in education and administration, and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Murray State University.
My goal is to change the narrative of the Portland neighborhood by creating a school and community that students, families, and the community proudly call their own. It’s bigger than students only succeeding on state testing for me!
