Hubbard takes leadership of KIPP Blytheville

Erika Hubbard, a longtime teacher and assistant principal at KIPP Blytheville Collegiate High School, was named interim school director, school officials announced recently. Hubbard assumed the position on April 2.

“We are thrilled to have someone with Ms. Hubbard’s background leading our high school in Blytheville,” said Carissa Holsted, KIPP Delta’s executive director. “Her knowledge of our students, staff, and schools, along with her experience and passion for education, will help us stay focused on our goal of teaching and learning through this time of change.”

Hubbard joined KIPP Blytheville Collegiate High School six years ago as a founding high school teacher. For the past three years, she has served as assistant principal.

As an assistant principal, Hubbard provided real-time coaching and support for classroom teachers, led school- and region-wide professional development sessions, and managed the “Master Teacher” program.

Under her leadership, KIPP students saw a 2-point increase in interim ACT scores for reading. She was also responsible for a dramatic increase in the number of KIPP students earning college credit at Arkansas Northeastern College.

A graduate of Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn., Hubbard is a current participant in the IMPACT Arkansas Educational Leadership Program and a fellow of the KIPP School Leadership Program. She was also a Teach For America corps member from 2014 to 2016.

“Change is sometimes inevitable, and this year has certainly brought its share of it,” said Holsted. “However, with change also comes great opportunity. We remain incredibly optimistic about the future of KIPP Blytheville Collegiate High School, thanks to the leadership of Ms. Hubbard.”

Hubbard replaces Jacki Barnwell, who is no longer employed with KIPP.

KIPP Blytheville Collegiate High School is one of two KIPP Delta schools Blytheville. KIPP Blytheville Collegiate High School, located on the Sen. Steve Bryles Memorial Campus on Byrum Road, serves grades 7-12.

KIPP Blytheville College Preparatory School, located on the Central Campus on Moultrie Drive, serves grades K-6. Marlana Hughes is school director at KIPP Blytheville College Preparatory School.

Enrollment at both schools is now open.