J. B. Atkinson Academy for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

A University of Louisville Signature Partnership School

School Profile

Each student at Atkinson begins the day with our Community Meeting where hard work, resiliency, and teamwork are the ingredients for success and readiness for college. Atkinson's "master teachers" provide students with cutting edge instruction using state of the art technology and instructional practices. Our three computer labs include a Technology Lab, Fast Forward Lab, and Success Maker Lab. Technology is integrated in each subject and classroom providing students the skills to succeed in the 21st century.

As a University of Louisville Signature Partnership School, Atkinson students are provided a wealth of resources and opportunities through the U of L Department of Education, Kent School of Social Work, School of Nursing, School of Medicine, and School of Dentistry.

Principal Dr. Dewey Hensley and FRC Director Lisa Aarvig-Hirsch received the elementary principal of the year and FRC director of the year awards for 2009.

Atkinson won the Mayor's Apple Award for Excellence in 2007 and 2008. Atkinson received the U of L Signature Partnership Community Collaboration Award in 2009-2010.

Students in pre-K through 5th grade delight in science experiments in our Science Learning Lab. Atkinson is the only school in the district to have an archeological "dig" in an outdoor classroom on campus. The site gives students hands on experience in scientific research and process.

Students are provided diverse opportunities in the arts and in after-school programs. Our Arts Showcase happens three times per year. Here students demonstrate to parents and the community their achievements in visual art, music, drama, and dance. All 5th grade students participate in our Ballroom Dancing program. Students may expand this rich arts experience by signing up for our Suzuki Violin  and Orchestra programs.

The after-school Environmental Club has created a community garden in the courtyard, landscaped the school entrance, and participated in a student forum on climate change and environmental awareness through the U of L Environmental Youth Summit. Taking what they've learned students are evaluating and changing the habits at Atkinson to create a greener school and community.

In-class exercise, outside activity, and health education are part of our program as well. Atkinson is a Health Promotions School of Excellence, and a YMCA Partnership School focusing on physical fitness.

Parents are an important part of the academic culture at Atkinson. Parents are invited to Family Literacy and Math Nights, Family Health Nights, Conferences, and Open House.

Parents are invited to our monthly meeting "Principal Coffees" to discuss topics of concern and issues that promote student academic success.

School Programs

Every1 Reads, Reading First School, Math Investigations II, Kentucky Reading Project, Louisville Writing Project, Community Partnerships, Mayors Top Apple Awards 2007-08, Technology Lab, Fast Forward Lab, Success Maker Lab, Science Innovations School, Art Showcase School: Visual Art, Music, Dance, Drama, Poetry. Family Resource Center, Blessings in a Backpack.