Administration
Mrs. Niki Simms, Principal
Greetings Park Ridge ES Family!
My name is Niki Simms and it is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter of introduction as the new Principal of Park Ridge Elementary School! I can’t wait to begin this new journey with all of you in the fall. I think we can all agree that the challenges that present us are serious, but I believe that we can have success when we work together!
Prior to my role as your Principal, I served as a 3rd grade teacher and an Assistant Principal at Conway ES. I truly enjoyed that experience because I believe working with your children last school year has prepared me for this great opportunity. In fact, providing education both in the classroom and virtually gave me a clear view of what the upcoming school year would entail. And I will personally commit to ensuring a student-centered approach is continued while serving you and your child. It won’t be just my efforts that will achieve the best for our students. Park Ridge’s amazing and dedicated teachers who value your child and how your child learns are also committed to making their educational experience an exceptional one.
Now a little about me! I was born and raised in Franklin, Virginia; and I currently live in Spotsylvania with my amazing husband (Kysan). We’ve been married for 10 years and have a 1 year-old daughter (Kourtney) and a Toy Poodle (Brody). When I’m not serving you, I enjoy reading, fitness, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. I’m also a long-suffering fan of the Detroit Lions. ☺
I attended Virginia State University, earning my Bachelors in Elementary Education PreK-6; and I earned my Master’s in Administration and Supervision from Liberty University. I also have 13 years of experience in education between Richmond City, Spotsylvania County, and Stafford County Public School systems. Being a teacher during that time has encouraged me to become an administrator so that I could have an even greater impact on student learning, teacher support, and connecting with the community. I realize that administrative positions in education entail huge responsibilities. So in order to manage these responsibilities effectively, I will be diligent in building relationships with students, parents, and teachers; supporting your child academically, socially, and emotionally, and working closely with community resources.
Please know that I am available to you anytime! So feel free to call or email me at simmsnl@staffordschools.net with any concerns or questions you may have throughout the school year. Together, let’s make this one of Park Ridge's best school years ever!!
Looking forward to working with you!
Niki Simms
Ms. Erin Barker, Assistant Principal
Welcome Families!
It is an absolute honor to be serving the Park Ridge Elementary community as one of your Assistant Principals! I am originally from a town just north of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and am an avid Philly sports fan. In 2008, I moved to Virginia and began my teaching career in Stafford County. I taught 5th Grade and Special Education for 6 years at Winding Creek Elementary. After that, I moved to Culpeper County, where I served at Pearl Sample Elementary for 5 years as a Special Education Teacher and Designee. I am beginning my 6th year as an Assistant Principal, having previously served at Hampton Oaks Elementary and Kate Waller Barrett Elementary. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Duquesne University as well as a Masters degree in Special Education from Old Dominion and an Educational Specialist Degree in Administration & Supervision from the University of Virginia. My husband, John, and I reside here in Stafford and are very involved in our local community. In my spare time, I enjoy running, crafting, and cooking.
It is my commitment to foster a learning environment in which our students are able to develop academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. I am a strong believer in the importance of teamwork. When we come together as a team, we are able to work together to ensure that our students have the support that they need to be successful and reach their goals. Please feel free to call or email me to discuss any concerns you might have throughout the year. I look forward to a productive and fulfilling 2024-2025 school year.
Ms. Jalita Johnson, Assistant Principal
Hello! I'm Jalita Johnson and I am so excited to be joining the Park Ridge Elementary School Community. I'm coming to you as a wife, mom of four and eight year military vet. My husband is still active duty but nearing retirement so we are rooting ourselves in the area.
As one of your building leaders, I aspire to form lasting relationships with each of you in order to cultivate a culture of trust. I truly believe that it is the bedrock of any school. That way, we can all show up being our best selves in the service of our students.
Prior to serving in this role, I spent three years as a reading specialist and four years as a classroom teacher in 4th and 2nd grades. I earned my BA of Elementary Education with a focus in Math from Fayetteville State and my MA of Elementary Education with a focus in Reading from Grand Canyon University. In my education career, I have been passionate in my commitment to facilitating individual student
I am confident that under the leadership of Mrs. Simms and in partnership with Mrs. Barker, we will all merge our passions in service to every Park Ridge student and family. I look forward to meeting and learning from each and every one of you.