Jakara Heyward has been named Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, effective June 16. Certified in K-6 elementary education; 6-9 middle level science; and K-12 school administration, she considers herself a collaborative and visionary school leader dedicated to fostering a culture of inquiry, equity, and authentic learning.
Heyward has served as an assistant principal at North Ridge Elementary School in the Wake County Public School System since 2019. She has held many roles, including instructional facilitator, intervention coordinator, testing coordinator, and sixth- and eighth- grade science teacher.
“I am excited to join DPS as the Director of Elementary Education. I look forward to partnering with educators and school leaders to ensure every child has access to rigorous, high-quality learning experiences. Through high expectations, high-impact instructional strategies, and a shared commitment to academic excellence, I am eager to support schools in creating opportunities for every child to thrive,” said Heyward.
Heyward earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Clemson University, a Master of Arts degree in Middle Level Science from Furman University, and a Master of Arts Executive Leadership Studies and an Education Specialist (EdS) degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Gardner-Webb University.
Artia Alston has been appointed Director of Middle School Curriculum and Instruction, effective July 1. Alston shares that she brings expertise in mentoring pre-service teachers, facilitating PLCs, and supporting special education compliance. She is also committed to equity, inclusive practices, and innovative teaching.
Alston is a candidate for her doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Gardner-Webb University this month. She earned her Master of Educational Leadership from Queens University of Charlotte and her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from East Carolina University.
Since 2024, she has been serving as an assistant principal at Southeast Middle School in the Rowan-Salisbury School System. Previously, she served as an assistant principal at Bostian Elementary in China Grove, North Carolina. Her experience also includes teaching and instruction as she has served as a math instructional coach, academic facilitator, middle school math teacher, and elementary teacher.
"As a proud graduate of Durham Public Schools, stepping into this role is both an honor and a responsibility. This is truly a full-circle moment, and I’m proud to return to the system that helped shape me to help lead, support educators, and ensure every student has what they need to succeed".