Little Ivies Prep is a boutique early childhood program, founded by Riana Barksdale, a lifelong Upper West Side resident and devoted mother.

The program offers a warm, small-group learning environment where children receive individualized attention while building strong academic, social, and emotional foundations. Through an intentional approach to early literacy, numeracy, and confidence-building, each child is supported at their own pace.

Riana earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from New York University and holds New York State teaching certifications in Grades 1–6 and Special Education across all grade levels, informing a thoughtful, developmentally appropriate curriculum.

Families choose Little Ivies Prep for its personalized care, intentional design, and nurturing environment—laying the foundation for lifelong learning.