Turnaround School Leader Dr. Ricki Gibbs Joins LEAD Public Schools
Today, LEAD Public Schools announced Dr. Ricki Gibbs will be joining its team as the new head of elementary schools and will report directly to the CEO. Gibbs currently serves as principal at Warner Arts Magnet Elementary School in Nashville.
“Dr. Gibbs brings a wealth of experience in leading elementary schools and we are thrilled to welcome him to the LEAD Public Schools team,” said Dwayne Tucker, CEO at LEAD Public Schools. “This role will assist with planning for the future of LEAD as we work toward our goal of becoming a K-12 network. His experience transforming one of the lowest-performing elementary schools in Nashville will be paramount as we look to continue our mission of improving academic outcomes for some of Nashville’s most vulnerable students.”
Gibbs began his career as an elementary school teacher in Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), before moving into administration. He has served as both an assistant principal and principal at MNPS schools. Under Gibbs’ leadership, Warner Arts Magnet Elementary transformed from one of the lowest performing schools in MNPS to being recognized as a Tennessee Reward School in 2022. Gibbs’ success at Warner Arts Magnet Elementary earned him the title of MNPS Elementary Principal of the Year in 2020.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to join an organization that is dedicated to turning around low-performing schools,” said Gibbs. “This new role will allow me to use my experience to make an even greater impact in Nashville, and I look forward to getting started on this critical work in our community.”
Gibbs earned his Bachelor of Science in elementary education and Master of Education in administration and supervision from Tennessee State University. He then went on to earn a Doctor of Education degree in organizational leadership and strategic change from Lipscomb University.
