Kiley Rikard ready to lead as new Principal at Columbia Elementary

MADISON – For Kiley Rikard, teaching is the most important profession in the world. Rikard is the new Principal at Columbia Elementary School.

“As a daughter of two educators, I have only ever wanted to be a teacher. My dad was an elementary school principal,” Rikard said. “I love to support teachers and students any way that I can.”

During 27 years in education, Rikard has worked only in two schools – 16 in Conyers, Ga., 11 at Mill Creek Elementary. “I’m so excited to be an Astro and looking forward to building my new home here . . . and continue great work that’s already happening at Columbia.”

Former principal Miranda Bolden accepted an assistant principalship at a Gulf Shores middle school.

Rikard intends to build relationships and “celebrating/continuing what already makes Columbia exceptional.” She wants to remove barriers so teachers can focus on their expertise: teaching and helping students.

“I hope to be approachable to families so they can feel encouraged to take an active role in their child’s education . . . and provide a safe, loving environment where students can thrive,” Rikard said.

A principal must face difficult scenarios. “When concerns arise, I start by listening. I want families and staff to feel respected, even if the outcome isn’t what they hoped for. They need to know their perspective is important,” Rikard said.

Rikard realizes some decisions or policies can be unpopular. “I don’t believe effective leadership means avoiding difficult conversations. My responsibility is to make decisions in the best interest of students while ensuring decisions align with district policies, legal requirements and the school’s mission.”

“I was recently reminded that ‘everyone is someone’s baby.’ It’s important to remember why we’re here . . . and that is our students,” Rikard said. “Parents want what is best for their kids; they’re their no. 1 advocates.”

However, Rikard hopes parents will remember that their children are also her priority. “I want what’s best for (students) — their safety, their best education and their happiness. Many decisions have to be made for all students. It certainly isn’t always easy.”

Rikard understands parents may not always agree with decisions. “But I want them to know that every decision is made thoughtfully, communicated respectfully and centered on what’s best for all students,” she said.

Columbia’s mission is to empower students to reach their potential by creating a learning community that focuses on each student’s unique talents and needs. “We must provide a safe learning environment where students feel safe to take risks, teachers feel supported to meet students’ needs, and families can feel like true partners in their child’s education,” Rikard said.

That safety includes discipline, which “should be fair, consistent and focused on helping students learn from their mistakes. I don’t want to simply give consequences –my goal as an administrator is to change behavior and support student growth,” she said. “My students are accustomed to me saying, ‘Make good choices.’ Sometimes, they need guidance in what that looks like.”

For discipline, Rikard always begins by gathering facts and listening to those involved. She gives students a chance to share their perspective for a fair decision.

“Every situation has context. It’s important students know their voice matters,” Rikard said. “It’s also important that I apply school and district policies consistently. Students need to know that expectations are clear and that consequences are predictable. They’ll know what our expectations are at Columbia so they can ‘make good choices,’” she said.

Rikard earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Converse College in Spartanburg, S.C.; master’s degree, early reading, Walden University; education specialist certification, curriculum and instruction, Brenau University, Gainesville, Ga.; Class A Certificate, instructional leadership, University of North Alabama; and National Board Certification.

After growing up on a farm, Rikard developed a love of animals, especially her two cats. “I’m an avid reader and love to travel. My work with EL students increased my interest in learning about other cultures and places,” she said.