A Warm Welcome to Dr. Atkinson

By: Esther Choo

Columbus High is excited to welcome a new face to our Social Studies department, Dr. Rebekah Atkinson, who is bringing over a decade of experience and a love for history.

This is Dr. Atkinson’s 16th year in education. Before coming to CHS, she taught for 15 years at Jordan Vocational High School College and Career Academy. Now, she’s teaching on AP World History and AP U.S. History here at Columbus High.

So why CHS? For Dr. A, there were several reasons. “I wanted to grow professionally and experience a different teaching environment,” she said. “And I’m excited to return to my alma mater.”

Her first impression of CHS has been overwhelmingly positive. “The school has a great culture. Students are engaged not just in academics, but in extracurriculars too. The faculty has been so welcoming and it’s a joyful place to be.”

Outside of teaching, Dr. A is already getting involved. She’s the coach for the Academic Decathlon team and also serves as the corresponding secretary for Delta Kappa Gamma, an international society for women educators.

She’s especially looking forward to getting to know her students this year. “I’m most excited about meeting new students and diving into interactive, meaningful learning experiences,” she said.

A fun fact students might not know? Dr. Atkinson is a talented artist. She enjoys drawing and painting in her spare time. She’s also passionate about travel, gardening, reading, and volunteering through her church and community.

With her experience, energy, and enthusiasm, Dr. A  is already making her mark at CHS. Be sure to give her a warm welcome if you haven’t already!