TPS Invests in "Students First" Through Paid Internship in Communications Department
Topeka Public Schools’ motto is “Students First.” After the success of paid student internship partnerships with Stormont Vail Health and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, the district is investing in its own student interns, beginning with Ryleigh Atkinson-McLaury.
Ms. Atkinson-McLaury graduated from Topeka High School with honors in May 2021. She will intern in the Topeka Public Schools Communications Department until August, then head off to college at the University of Oklahoma where she plans to major in communications.
Her grandmother, Dr. Kay E. Meadows, was the first black woman ever elected to the Topeka Public Schools Board of Education, serving from 1985 to 1990, and the first black woman to serve as President of the Board.
Meadows Elementary was named in honor of Dr. Meadows, opening in September 1996.
Ms. Atkinson-McLaury is dedicated to service and continuing her grandmother’s legacy at Topeka Public Schools. She brings a wealth of knowledge and talent to the Communications Department, including graphic design, video, and journalism experience she gained through her classes at Topeka High School.