Administration

Gardner

I am beginning my thirteenth year with Topeka Public Schools. This will be my fourth year as principal of Ross Elementary, and this will be my first year as the principal of Eisenhower Middle School. Prior to this role, I was the Building Administrative Intern at Eisenhower and a physical education teacher at Quincy Elementary.

My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in physical education, along with master’s degrees in educational administration and special education from Emporia State University. I earned my doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Kansas in May 2023.

I was born and raised in Topeka and am proud to call it my lifelong home. My family is deeply rooted in Topeka Public Schools, my father is a former principal in the district, and my two nieces currently attend TPS at the middle and high school levels. I am committed to partnering with our community, families, and staff to make a positive impact on every student across the Ross Elementary and Eisenhower Middle School campus

Dr. Nicolas Gardner, Principal

[email protected]

Hinck

My name is Rita Hinck, and I’m the Assistant Principal at Eisenhower Middle School in Topeka, Kansas. Originally from Goodland, Kansas, I’ve lived in Topeka for the past 21 years and have been in education for 21 years. For the last 13 of those, I’ve had the privilege of working in Topeka Public Schools.

My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in elementary education and a master's in building leadership. My goal is to finish up my doctorate in curriculum and instruction.

I’m passionate about supporting students, staff, and families, and I believe in creating a positive and inclusive school environment where everyone can thrive. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, swimming, and being outdoors whenever I can.

Rita Hinck
[email protected]
785-274-6165

Kirkwood

I am beginning my ninth year in Topeka Public Schools and my sixteenth year in education. This will be my first year as the assistant principal at Eisenhower Middle School and my eighth year on the Eisenhower and Ross Campus. Before this role, I was the Dean of Students at Ross Elementary for three years and a physical education teacher at Eisenhower Middle School.

I was born and raised in Topeka, attended Topeka Public Schools, and graduated from Topeka High School. My educational background includes an associate of science degree from Cloud County Community College, an undergraduate degree in physical education from Washburn University, and a master’s degree in educational administration from Emporia State University in December 2024.

Raub Kirkwood, Assistant Principal

[email protected]

785-274-6160

Ext. 6169

Engage students in the highest quality of learning • Prepare students for responsible, productive citizenship • Inspire excellence for a lifetime

We Support Equal Opportunities

The Topeka Public Schools, Unified School District No. 501 is committed to affirmative action and equal opportunity. No person shall, on the basis of age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, national origin or ancestry be denied lawful access to any appropriate educational service, program, or activity provided by the school district. For students, the Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 compliance coordinator is the General Counsel for the district. For employment, the EEO/AA and Title VII compliance officer is the general director of human resources. Compliance coordinators may be contacted at 624 S.W. 24th Street, Topeka, KS 66611-1294, (785) 295-3000. The clerk of the Board of Education has been designated to receive and redirect or handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, regulations, and procedures. The clerk may be contacted by calling (785) 295-3059 or by writing to 624 S.W. 24th Street, Topeka, Kansas 66611-1294.