Assistant Principals

Dr. Nzinga Harper

Dr. Harper is elated to serve as Kirksey Middle School’s Assistant Principal for the 2025-2026 school year. This is her 19th year in education and first year in school leadership. In prior years, she has served as a District High School Science Instructional Coach, Instructional Facilitator, and PLC Coach. She has also taught and led in Jackson, MS; Houston, TX; and Memphis, TN. 

As a native Jacksonian, she graduated from Lanier High School then went on to LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis, TN where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She began her teaching career as an alternate route science educator in Memphis, TN at American Way Middle School in 2003. Dr. Harper continued her education at Union University to earn a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and later a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Capella University.

Dr. Harper believes that every student deserves a supportive and challenging learning environment where equity, high expectations, and authentic relationships foster academic and personal growth. She is committed to serving Kirksey and all stakeholders by fostering collaboration, building strong community partnerships, and creating a culture where every student and educator can thrive.

Arias Melvin

With more than 15 years of experience in education—including 9 years as a classroom teacher and 6 years as an Assistant Principal—Arias Melvin brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her new role at Kirksey Middle School for the 2025–2026 school year.

Mrs. Melvin began her career as a classroom teacher with the Jackson Public School District, where she quickly developed a reputation for building strong relationships with students and delivering high-quality instruction. After serving in various leadership roles across different educational settings, she is proud to be returning to Jackson Public Schools in a leadership capacity.

Mrs. Melvin earned her Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree from Belhaven University and holds an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from The University of Mississippi “Hotty Toddy!”. She is a proud member of The Ole Miss Principal Corps, Cohort 8, one of Mississippi’s most respected and rigorous leadership development programs. Through this experience, Mrs. Melvin enhanced her skills in strategic planning, instructional leadership, and data-informed, decision making.

Over the course of her career, Mrs. Melvin has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to student growth and achievement, teacher development, and operational efficiency. Her leadership style is consistent in growing the whole child, academically, socially, and emotionally.

Mrs. Melvin is excited to join the Kirksey community and looks forward to collaborating and supporting staff, students, and families in meaningful and lasting ways.