February 10, 2026, Principal Nancy Rousseau announced her retirement after working in education for over three decades, 24 of those years as principal. Less than a month later, Superintendent Jermall Wright announced the recommendation of the next principal, former Central teacher and student, April Rike. Rike’s presence might be new to some, but her history with the school is deep both personally and professionally.

“Central has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Rike said.

The great things happening at Central will continue,” Rike said. “The excellence, the pride, the spirit that defines the school will remain at the center of everything we do.”

Her grandfather was a student in the 1930s, she is a 1993 graduate, and all three of her children are alumni as well. She has worked in the Little Rock School District since 1999. Rike was a teacher on campus for 10 years. Additionally, she was an administrator in five of the district’s high schools and one elementary school.

For the past three years, Rike has been at Little Rock Southwest Magnet High School serving as the high school improvement specialist. “

Rike understands the school is built on the greatness of each student, and she plans to preserve the community and history.

“Being a Tiger means more than wearing the colors and cheering at the games,” Rike said. “It means carrying yourself with pride, standing up for what is right, and understanding that you are part of something bigger than yourself.”

Rousseau believes Rike is prepared for this new role and emphasizes her ability to lead the school into its next chapter.

“I have complete confidence that under Mrs. Rike’s leadership, and with the continued dedication of this wonderful Tiger community, Little Rock Central High will continue to thrive, inspire, and prepare generations of students for bright and successful futures,” Rousseau said.

Rike plans to continue Rousseau’s legacy and with Rike’s deep connections to the school, Rousseau trusts the future of the school is in the right hands.

“She already understands the heart and soul of this school. She is not new to Central; she is family,” said Rousseau.