“I want to build the kind of school that expands what young people believe is possible for their lives—a school where a child’s ZIP code does not determine their access to an excellent education, meaningful opportunities, or a future filled with choices. For me, this is about more than opening a school. It is about building opportunities that can change the trajectory of students, families, and a community for generations.”
Richard Atkins was born in New Orleans and raised in a community that, in many ways, reminds him of Clayton County—rich in culture, talent, and community pride, while also navigating real barriers to opportunity. His education journey brought him to Atlanta when he attended Clark Atlanta University (CAU). His experience at CAU helped shape not only who he became as an educator and leader, but also his understanding of education as a vehicle for community advancement. From there, he spent more than a decade as a teacher, instructional leader, assistant principal, and principal serving communities similar to the one he hopes to serve in Clayton County.
Richard began his career in education teaching 2nd and 4th grade at Excellence Boys Charter School in Brooklyn, New York, and developed a deep appreciation for the joy of learning and the importance of creating environments where young people feel known, challenged, and supported. He then worked at a KIPP AMP Middle School in Brooklyn, where he deepened his understanding of strong instruction, rigorous academics, and the power of meaningful relationships with students and families. When he made his way to Houston, he grew from an instructional leader into Assistant Principal and ultimately Principal at KIPP Polaris Academy for Boys. Responsible for academic achievement, school culture, talent development, and family engagement, he helped his school increase academic achievement, strengthen teacher retention, reduce suspensions, and expand students’ exposure to career pathways.
Most recently, Richard transitioned into the education technology space, where he partnered with school and district leaders across the country to help them discover and harness the power of artificial intelligence.
Back in Atlanta since 2024, his journey has come full circle as he looks forward to working with the community to further expand opportunity for students and reimagine what education can make possible.
Richard earned his bachelor’s degree from Clark Atlanta University and his Master’s degree from Relay Graduate School of Education.
