Meadows Elementary School

Erica Atherton - Principal

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I am privileged and honored to serve as the building principal for Meadows Elementary. In 2005, I began my career teaching fourth grade in this building. After a few building and grade level changes, I made my way back to Meadows in 2019. You will often hear me say that Meadows helped raise me. I am a better person because of this community and I am so thankful to have the opportunity to give back to the people who have given me so much.

I grew up in Topeka and am a proud product of Topeka Public Schools. I attended McClure Elementary, French Middle School, and Topeka West High School. I graduated from Washburn University with both my Bachelor's and Master's Degrees.

I have three children who are all very active in sports. Any of my free time outside of school is usually spent sitting on a set of bleachers cheering on my favorite players.

I want to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the Meadows families. It is an honor to serve you and your students. I look forward to working with each of you to help foster the love of learning in your student.  It takes a village to raise a child and I am thankful you have chosen me to be part of your tribe. 

We can.  We will.  Watch us!

Kyna Croft - Assistant Principal

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Greetings! I am pleased to serve the Meadows team of amazing families, educators, and staff as your Assistant Principal.

I have served the families in Topeka Public Schools since 2007, first as a volunteer parent and para-educator at McCarter Elementary School. I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Fort Hays State University in 2013. I taught fourth, second, and third grades, and Reading and Math Intervention at Lowman Hill Elementary School. I earned my Master's Degree through K-State and the Topeka Leadership Academy in 2022.

I have a wonderful husband and a beautiful daughter, both of whom are products of Topeka Public Schools, and Otis, our golden lab, who is a registered therapy dog.

On any given day, you can find me rolling around the Pods supporting students and teachers or taking Otis around for visits.

I am grateful to be here at Meadows, serving you, the staff, and your amazing children. Thank you for entrusting them to us every year. It's going to be a great one!