December 2, 2025
To the Members of ASMSA’s Community of Learning:
As I prepare this final Quarterly Report, I find myself thinking less about the milestones of a single semester and more about the arc of thirteen and a half years: an era marked not only by visible transformation but also by the quieter, enduring work that continues long after any one leader steps aside. Institutions like ASMSA aren’t defined by individual personalities or moments. They’re defined by deeply held beliefs, intentional cultures, and opportunities built to last that are sustained by teams of talented educators and the students who bring our mission to life every day.
When I began my tenure in 2012, I inherited both extraordinary potential and significant challenges. We opened a new Student Center but faced other aging facilities with no clear replacement and an online learning program operating at a deficit large enough to threaten our financial stability. The scale of those problems didn’t make them insurmountable, only worth solving. What guided every decision was the belief that ASMSA deserved a foundation strong enough to support generations of students still to come.
That commitment is visible today in a campus transformed by more than $42 million in new and renovated facilities, the successful exit from the former St. Joseph hospital complex, and a sustainable model that will fuel future growth. It lives in initiatives like STEM Pathways, which helped change the landscape of computer science education statewide, and in the global learning program that has now taken 700 students and faculty members across the world. It’s reflected in our increased enrollment of low-income and first-generation students and in the broadened reach of our statewide programs. These accomplishments were never an endpoint; instead, they are building blocks for what ASMSA will continue to become.
What I value most, though, is the culture we have strengthened together: one that trusts extraordinary educators to innovate, supports students in becoming comfortable with who they are, and treats excellence not as an exception but as an expectation. That culture will remain long after my name fades from the daily life of the school, and that is exactly how it should be.
As this chapter closes, I do so with deep gratitude for the colleagues who brought their best to this mission, the families who entrusted us with their brightest young minds, and the students who reminded me every day why this work matters. The next pages of ASMSA’s story will be written by new hands, but the foundation we built together will continue to support them. Because the most important work the work that outlasts us all is only just beginning.
Sincerely,
Corey Alderdice Executive Director
Office of the Executive Director
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Corey Alderdice, ASMSA
Executive Director
By the Numbers
• For the first time, ASMSA will host the Arkansas Activities Association’s state e-Sports Championship. The event will be held at the Creativity and Innovation Complex on Monday, December 8th .
• 6 ASMSA choir members who earned recognition in the Region 3 Senior High AllRegion Honor Chorus auditions. They earned honors at the auditions held in October, and several were selected for the All-Region Clinic that was held in November. Three are eligible for audition for All-State honors.
• 9 ASMSA students earned Computer Science Students of Distinction, an award facilitated by the Arkansas Academy of Computing.
Flynn Named Interim Executive Director as Search Process Underway University of Arkansas System President Jay B. Silveria announced last month that Stuart Flynn, currently dean of academic affairs at Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences & the Arts (ASMSA), has been named interim executive director at the state’s residential high school and will begin that role Jan. 1, 2026.
Current ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice announced in June his plans to step down in December after more than 13 years of leadership at the school.
Flynn was named dean of academic affairs at ASMSA in May 2019, leaving his position as director of student support services at the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) in Birmingham, Ala. He previously served as a creative writing instructor from 2001-2015 at ASFA and chair of ASFA’s Creative Writing Department from 2002-2015. Flynn earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, a Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas School of Law, and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Alabama.
A national search for a permanent executive director is also officially underway, with the school having solidified its job profile and launched a web presence for the search process intended to keep the public informed. More information, including the position description, is available at asmsa.me/execdirsearch25.
Michael Moore, Ph.D., the UA System’s vice president for academic affairs, is leading the search, working with a previously announced committee to advise Silveria as he seeks a candidate to recommend to the Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas for final approval. Nominations and expressions of interest may be submitted mmoore@uasys.edu. To apply, candidates should submit a curriculum vitae/resume and a letter of interest through the Workday system. Priority will be given to applications received by January 16, 2026, though the search will remain open until the position is filled.
An announcement on the selection is expected prior to the conclusion of the spring semester.
Record Number of Seniors Named Questbridge National College Match Recipients
A record sixteen ASMSA seniors have been named QuestBridge 2025 National College Match Finalists along with a further record eight students receiving matches with elite colleges and universities across the nation. QuestBridge is a nonprofit organization that connects exceptional low-income youth with leading institutions of higher education. QuestBridge works with top universities across the country to offer four-year, full scholarships to deserving students who may otherwise be unable to afford to attend those institutions.
ASMSA seniors selected as Finalists include:
Nakoa Beattie of Monticello – matched with Smith College; Ridgely Bond of Marion – matched with Princeton University; Matthew Carter of Hot Springs;
Sephorah Faiq of Arkadelphia; Bridger Foyt of Blytheville – matched with Washington University in St. Louis; Jack Ghotra of Little Rock;
Zee Kidd of Little Rock; Jacob Lewis of Clinton – matched with Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Tanvi Marupally of Conway; Jun Park of Maumelle;
Lisandro Ramos of Little Rock – matched with Boston College; Emma Sedgwick of Arkadelphia – matched with Davidson College; Payton Stinnett of Redfield; Paola Sustaita of Sheridan – matched with Rice University; Stevie Watkins of Perryville; and Faith Wesley of Hot Springs – matched with Wesleyan University.
QuestBridge partnered this year with 55 colleges and universities to offer scholarships at institutions such as Duke University, Rice University, Stanford University, Yale University, and others. Students apply for the scholarships through QuestBridge’s free National College Match application. They may list up to 15 of the partner schools at which they would like to be considered for admission.
Finalists who do not receive a match for a scholarship will still be eligible to be considered for regular admission to partner schools and may still receive financial aid in the future. Match Scholarship recipients are granted early admission to one of QuestBridge's college partners with a full four-year scholarship that includes tuition and fees, housing and food, books, and travel expenses, worth more than $200,000. The Match Scholarship is offered as part of a generous financial aid package provided by the college that covers the cost of attendance, including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and travel expenses. All Match Scholarship packages have no parental contribution or student loans.
ASMSA Unveils 2033 Facilities Plan to Guide Campus Growth
The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts has announced its 2033 Facilities Plan, a dynamic roadmap that charts the continued evolution of the residential high school campus over the next decade. The plan builds on more than 15 years of transformation guided by
the school’s original 2008 Master Plan and sets the stage for new facilities that will further enhance student life, learning, and creativity.
The unveiling of the 2033 Facilities Plan comes as ASMSA completes the first phase of its comprehensive campus redevelopment. Since construction of the Student Center began in 2010, more than $42.5 million has been allocated toward new and renovated spaces across the downtown Hot Springs campus.
The plan stems from two years of discussions and feedback with institutional stakeholders. The feedback from surveys and a campus working group was translated into a vision for campus by local architectural firms Harris Architecture and Taylor Kempkes Architects.
The most recent milestone came earlier this year as ASMSA finalized its exit from the former St. Joseph Hospital complex, which originally served as the residence hall and faculty office spaces, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the institution and its surrounding community.
In 2010, the City of Hot Springs committed to rehabilitating the site for future expansion as part of a request for state funding to support construction of the Student Center while also reaffirming the community’s commitment to the school’s long-term success it first articulated in 1992 as part of the campaign for selection as the host site for ASMSA.
ASMSA’s attention now turns to reimagining the footprint of the former hospital as the Arts Zone, a vibrant creative district dedicated to the visual and performing arts components of the school’s legislated mission. The new zone will include phased facilities for studios, rehearsal, and exhibition spaces designed to support the school’s growing arts programs. While not a traditional performing arts center, facilities will feature flexible spaces for student showcases, concerts, and interdisciplinary performances that blend STEM and the arts in true ASMSA fashion.
To read more about the 2033 Facilities Plan, visit https://www.asmsa.org/about-us/facilities/.
ASMSA Again Named No. 1 in State in 2026 Niche.com Rankings
ASMSA is the top public high school in Arkansas for the fourth consecutive year in the 2026 Niche.com rankings. Niche.com is a website that provides in-depth profiles of thousands of colleges, K-12 districts and individual schools across the nation. Parents and students use Niche’s information to find the right school for them.
In addition to being No. 1 on the website’s Best Public High Schools in Arkansas list, ASMSA is ranked in the top half percent of public high schools in the nation. The school is No. 55 out of almost 20,200 public high schools nationwide. It is the only public high school in Arkansas ranked in the top 150 nationally. ASMSA is also rated as top in the state in Niche.com’s “Best College Prep Public High Schools” in Arkansas list.
ASMSA earned an A-plus Overall Niche Grade as well as A-plus grades in the individual categories of Academics, Teachers, College Prep, and Resources and Facilities. It achieved an A
grade in the Administration category as well as the Clubs and Activities Category.
To view ASMSA’s profile, visit https://asmsa.me/nicheprofile
Arkansas Business Names Alderdice Top Executive
Corey Alderdice, ASMSA’s Executive Director, was named the 2025 Arkansas Executive of the Year in the Public Sector/Education category by Arkansas Business. Alderdice was recognized at an awards ceremony held at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock on Nov. 13.
Other category finalists were Jim Hudson, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration; Dr. Pearl McElfish, founding director of the Institute for Community Health Innovation at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Dr. DuShun Scarbrough Sr., executive director of the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission; and Dr. Todd Shields, chancellor of Arkansas State University.
Awards were also announced for five other categories: Small Private Company, Large Private Company, Nonprofit Organization, Financial Executive, and Board Member. In addition to Alderdice and McElfish, who both serve at institutions within the University of Arkansas System, UA Board of Trustees Chair Kelly Eichler was named a finalist in the Board Member category.
This was the second year of the program, which is an expansion of the former CFO of the Year Awards. It recognized and honored the region’s most outstanding senior executives, according to a release by Arkansas Business. Nomination forms were submitted to an independent panel of judges that met in late July to determine finalists and winners.
For more information about the Arkansas Executive of the Year Awards and a list of this year’s winners, visit www.arkansasbusiness.com/event/executive.
Clarity Sought on Governor’s Scholarship and Diploma of Distinction
Over the past several months, ASMSA has continued to engage state partners in productive conversations regarding the Governor’s Scholarship requirements, ADE’s Diploma of Distinction, and their impact on our students. Last month, Director Alderdice met with representatives from the University of Arkansas System, the Arkansas Department of Education, and the Arkansas Division of Higher Education to outline long-standing concerns that the existing pathways, such as earning qualifying scores on Advanced Placement examinations or completing an Associate degree, do not adequately reflect the rigor or structure of ASMSA’s specialized curriculum. While these measures work well for traditional high school settings, they pose challenges for students navigating ASMSA’s accelerated coursework, research experiences, and broad menu of advanced classes across STEM, arts, and humanities.
These discussions eventually led to a direct conversation with Dr. Ken Warden, Commissioner of Higher Education. Commissioner Warden acknowledged the unique position of ASMSA within the state’s educational landscape and expressed a shared understanding of the need for alternatives that allow our students to access state scholarship opportunities without compromising the integrity of their academic experience. He articulated that the Division of
Higher Education will work with colleges and universities to expand offerings of a 30–35 credit hour Certificate of Proficiency aligned with Arkansas’s general education core. This option would create a clearer, more flexible pathway for ASMSA students to qualify for the Governor’s Scholarship while building on the strengths of the institution’s long-established Concurrent Core.
The proposed certificate pathway aligns naturally with ASMSA’s curriculum, which already offers more than 70 advanced courses and a robust slate of concurrent enrollment opportunities. Because the certificate mirrors the structure of the state’s general education requirements, ASMSA students would be able to meet scholarship expectations through coursework that complements their academic trajectory rather than forcing choices that narrow their intellectual exploration. While no fixed timeline has been established, Commissioner Warden emphasized his understanding of the urgency and pledged to work toward a solution that balances statewide policy frameworks with the needs of ASMSA’s students and faculty.
ASMSA remains committed to continuing the larger conversation on the Diploma of Distinction and the possibility of awarding the distinction simply by virtue of graduation from ASMSA, given the school’s unique charter, mission, and demonstrated academic outcomes. For now, the assurances provided through these discussions offer meaningful progress and some relief that clarity is forthcoming. Commissioner Warden has committed to providing written articulation of the next steps in either December or January. We are optimistic that this collaboration will result in a pathway that acknowledges ASMSA’s academic strengths, ensures equity of access to state scholarships, and reinforces the state’s investment in the success of Arkansas’s most talented young people.
Capital Projects Continue to Gain Momentum
At its November 2025 meeting, the University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees granted full approval for ASMSA’s Alumni Hall and New Charter Field project, marking an important milestone in the continued development of the campus. The $4.25 million initiative represents a strategic investment in student wellness, community connection, and long-range campus vitality. Alumni Hall will serve as a flexible indoor gathering space part lounge, part collaboration zone, and part event venue designed to give students a “third space” beyond the residence halls and classrooms. The adjacent New Charter Field will provide a much-needed outdoor fitness and recreation area, creating a safe, well-lit, and multi-use green space for everything from informal play to structured wellness programming.
Together, these facilities advance ASMSA’s commitment to supporting the whole student. By expanding recreational and communal spaces, the project directly responds to ongoing conversations about student well-being, balance, and the desire for more intentional opportunities to decompress and connect with peers. The hall’s adaptable design will allow for a dedicated e-sports lab, club meetings, guest speakers, and residential life programming, while the field will enhance opportunities for physical activity and outdoor gatherings that strengthen both mental and physical health, especially during high-stress points in the academic year.
Domain Architecture was selected to design the project. A call will be issued to faculty, staff, and students to assist with the overall design and planning. Preliminary conversations began last year with a campus workgroup that discussed what a project of this kind might entail. The goal
will celebrate groundbreaking for the facility during Homecoming and Alumni Weekend in October 2026. Construction is estimated to reach completion in late-spring 2028.
Work also continues on the Maintenance Building and Woodshop. Delays in delivery of the structural steel for the project until January 2026 have pushed completion of the project until June 2026, though there remains ample time to transition the spaces during the summer.
Renovations on the Academic Building stairwells was completed in early November. Work will begin shortly on the surface parking lot located along Little Pine Street. Additional requests for engineering considerations by the City of Hot Springs have delayed the project.
Senior Named Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist
Senior Aarush Goyal has been named a semifinalist for the 2026 Coca-Cola Scholars Program. The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States, according to Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation website. It is a joint effort of Coca-Cola bottlers across the country and The Coca-Cola Company.
Goyal of Bentonville said being selected as a semifinalist was an honor. “It means a lot to have my hard work and dedication recognized by such a respected program,” he said. “More than anything, it’s humbling to know that my efforts to make a difference in my school and community are being acknowledged among so many other inspiring students.”
The program selected 1,238 semifinalists from a pool of more than 107,000 applicants. The semifinalists pool will be narrowed to 250 Regional Finalists in early January 2026 to take part in online interviews. From those, 150 students will be named Coke Scholars-select in February and invited to attend the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta in April. Upon completion of the Scholars Weekend, the students will be named official Coca-Cola Scholars and receive a $20,000 scholarship.
Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts
Statistics for Grants and General Messaging
Academic Year 2025-26
Given the unique mission and nature of ASMSA, we find it often helpful for external stakeholders to review the following information to better understand our community of learning It is important to know that ASMSA does not charge for housing, tuition, meals, or textbooks We believe the opportunity should be available to all qualifying students regardless of their family background.
Student Enrollment
Data Collected from Blackbaud on August 7, 2025
Class of 2026
Class Enrollment 110 Class Begin 124 (10.5% attrition)
Male Students 50
Female Students 60
Class of 2027
Class Enrollment 95
Male Students 47
Female Students 48 (3 online)
Class of 2028
Class Enrollment 43
Male Students 21
Female Students 22
Total Male 118 (47 6%)
Total Female 130 (53 4%)
Total Enrollment 248
Racial/Ethnic Diversity
Classroom and Instruction - Academic Year 2026
Student to Teacher Ratio 8 9:1 245:28 0 FTE
FTE figure does not include faculty in adjunct roles for flute, choir, or health/PE
Based on the percentage of faculty course load dedicated exclusively to residential and Online Academy full-time students
Student Need
Data Collected from Family Income Statement and Federal Subsidized Lunch Guidelines
Arkansas Median Household Income: $64,840 (2024, US Census Bureau) 115 students (46.4%) are below the median household income in Arkansas.
Class of 2026
Students Eligible Based on Federal Guidelines 48/110 43 6%
Average Family Income
Median Family Income
Class of 2027
$103,316
$70,000
Students Eligible Based on Federal Guidelines 34/95 35 8%
Average Family Income $123,447
Median Family Income $92,106
Class of 2028
Students Eligible Based on Federal Guidelines 23/43 53.5%
Average Family Income
Median Family Income
Median HELIX Family Income
Median Early Entrance Family Income
Total Enrollment
$77,142
$55,000
$48,782
$105,254
Students Eligible Based on Federal Guidelines 105/248 42 3%
Geographic Reach
Data Collected from Blackbaud on Enrolled Students as of August 7, 2025
Class of 2026 Counties Enrolled 42 of 75 Counties
Class of 2027 Counties Enrolled 42 of 75 Counties
Class of 2028 Counties Enrolled 23 of 75 Counties
Current AY26 Enrollment Counties Represented 59 of 75 Counties
5-Year (Classes of 2023 - Partial 2028 Admission) 67 of 75 Arkansas Counties
Dallas, Jackson, Lee, Montgomery, Nevada, Pike, Searcy, and Woodruff counties are not represented.
Mississippi Delta* Student Enrollment
63 of 466 (14%)
Expanded Mississippi Delta** Student Enrollment 134 of 466 (29%)
Total Mississippi Delta Student Enrollment (2021-26) 197 of 466 (42%)
*Delta Counties: Arkansas, Chicot, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Desha, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett, St Francis
**Expanded Delta Counties: Ashley, Drew, Independence, Jackson, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lincoln, Lonoke, Prairie, Pulaski, Randolph, Sharp, White, Woodruff
General Assembly (House) Districts
75 of 100 Districts
General Assembly (Senate) Districts 34 of 35 Districts (34 in NWA missing)
Based on districts as redrawn from the 2020 Census and student enrollment in January 2025.
Top Producing Counties from Classes of 2023-2028
Pulaski County 76 Washington County 13 Garland County 48 Pope County 12
Saline County 32 Jefferson County 12
Faulkner County 30 White County 12
Craighead County 14 Arkansas County 11
Class of 2025 Graduates
Data Collected from Naviance, Graduation Press Release, and Colleges of Choice Spreadsheet
Number of Graduates 95 Average ACT Composite 28.6 College Matriculation or Military Enlistment 93.6%*
*Remaining students declared a planned “gap year” prior to documented college enrollment.
First-Generation College Students 34%
Scholarships Awarded $25.2 million
AR Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship Eligible 33 of 95 (34.7%)
GDS is based on 32 ACT composite super score and 3.5 unweighted GPA. The scholarship is a $10,000 per year ($40,000 total award in lieu of Academic Challenge (lottery) scholarship.
Class of 2025 Graduates Declaring a STEM Major 59 of 95 (62 1%)
Class of 2025 Graduates Computer Science 9 of 95 (9 5%)
Class of 2025 Arts, Music, Creativity, and Design 10 of 95 (10 5%)
Class of 2025 Attending UofA Institutions 34 of 95 (35.8%)
University of Arkansas - Little Rock 10
University of Arkansas - Fayetteville 22
University of Arkansas - Fort Smith 1
UA-NorthArk Community College 1
Class of 2025 Attending Arkansas Institutions 47 of 95 (48 4%)
University of Central Arkansas 4 Hendrix College 3
Arkansas State University 2 Arkansas Tech University 1 Henderson State University 1
Southern Arkansas University 1
Northwest Arkansas Community College 1
Class of 2025 Attending Out-of-State Institutions 42 of 95 (44.2%)
Class of 2025 Gap Year or Unknown 6 of 95 (6.3%)
Classes of 2021-2025 Graduates
Arkansas College/University Matriculation 225 of 385 (58.4%)
University of Arkansas System Matriculation 135 of 385 (35.1%)
Out-of-State College/University Matriculation 162 of 385 (42.1%)
Military Enlistment 1 of 385 (.3%)
Other (Undecided/Gap Year/Not Reported) 9 of 385 (2.3%)
Historic Trends in College Enrollment
Classes of 2020-2023 Graduates
Arkansas College/University Matriculation 219 of 382 (57.3%)
University of Arkansas System Matriculation 138 of 382 (36.1%)
Out-of-State College/University Matriculation 154 of 382 (40.3%)
Military Enlistment 1 of 382 (.3%)
Other (Undecided/Gap Year/Not Reported) 8 of 382 (2.6%)
Classes of 2016-2019 Graduates
Arkansas College/University Matriculation 264 of 411 (64 2%)
University of Arkansas System Matriculation 148 of 411 (36 0%)
Out-of-State College/University Matriculation 139 of 411 (33 8%)
Military Enlistment 3 of 411 ( 7%)
Other (Undecided/Gap Year/Not Reported) 5 of 411 (1 2%)
Classes of 2012-2015 Graduates
Arkansas College/University Matriculation
288 of 386 (74.5%)
University of Arkansas System Matriculation 180 of 386 (46.6%)
Out-of-State College/University Matriculation 95 of 386 (24.6%)
Military Enlistment 1 of 386 ( 2%)
Other (Undecided/Gap Year/Not Reported)
0 of 386 (2 6%)
Office of Academic Affairs
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Stuart Flynn, Dean of Academic Affairs
ASMSA will administer Final Exams on December 16-18. Over the next two weeks, academic leadership will work with student success coordinators and teachers to continue applying intervention strategies to help those students in grade jeopardy and to prepare all students to finish the semester on a positive note. Completing the Fall Semester involves collaboration across the academic units, and, in addition to Final Exam preparation, includes Spring Semester course scheduling, college planning, ACT prep sessions, and identifying summer research and internship opportunities for students. December is also important for Juniors in Capstone research courses where students must demonstrate progress on projects to be presented in February at the West Regional Science Fair and in May at the Arts & Humanities Symposium.
By the Numbers
● 8 students matched to colleges of their choice through the Questbridge National Scholarship Program.
● 6 ASMSA musicians qualified for All-Region Chorus, and 5 ASMSA musicians qualified for All-Region Orchestra.
● 5 student musicians selected for the UCA Honors Wind Ensemble.
● 9 students earned the Arkansas Seal of Biliteracy.
Spring Course Registration
Since mid-November, Student Success Coordinators (SSCs) have been meeting with students to plan Spring Semester course schedules. Between now and the Christmas holiday, SSCs will complete that process, and ASMSA’s concurrent credit partner, the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, will process the registrations. Meetings between SSCs and students include not only discussions about Spring Semester courses but also longer-term planning for students interested in achieving the Associate of Arts degree through the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith and students who want to take a specific track of coursework in preparation for their college major, graduate school, and future career.
Cognia STEM certification
Cognia is a global, non-profit organization that offers processes for school improvement through accreditation and certification programs as well as assessment and professional development services. ASMSA has already earned accreditation, satisfying Cognia’s rigorous standards for school quality and effectiveness, and we are currently working through the process for STEM certification, led by Dr. Brian Monson, Associate Dean for STEM. Dr. Monson is working with a Cognia STEM specialist who guides us through all certification steps as Dr. Monson submits a narrative and other required data for consideration. This process is significant not only for the
ultimate recognition, but more importantly, as a way for ASMSA to identify what we already do well and areas for improvement.
Challenge Success Partnership
Challenge Success is a national non-profit affiliated with the Stanford University Graduate School of Education, and ASMSA has partnered with the organization for several years. For the 2025-26 school year, ASMSA is working with Challenge Success and other participating schools on an initiative to study the effects of AI on student learning and student wellness. Through our AI working group, we meet regularly with our Challenge Success coach to develop strategies that lead to action items for implementation in the classroom and for reconsideration of school policy. ASMSA has already surveyed faculty and students regarding AI use, and we are sharing those results with Challenge Success. The AI working group will meet again in December to review progress and plan for further surveys during the Spring Semester, in addition to other possible initiatives like shared test and assignment calendars for faculty and opportunities for faculty to shadow students to experience a school day from the student perspective.
Office of Student Life
December
2025 Quarterly Report
Rheo Morris, Ph.D., Dean of
Students
The ASMSA office of Student Life is gearing up for the end of the semester. We have recently wrapped up Herff Jones being on campus to present on graduation regalia and are getting ready for late night breakfast.
By the Numbers
• The Licensed Masters Social Worker has conducted two hundred and eleven individual counseling sessions for the months of October and November and 2 crisis interventions.
• 115 students have participated in mental health services since the beginning of the school year.
• 1 Residence Life staff member completed the Women’s Leadership academy at National Park College.
Mental Health Hub
To this date, one hundred and eleven students have received mental health services on campus. The Licensed Master’s Social Worker has conducted 117 individual counseling sessions for the month of October. She conducted 94 individual counseling sessions and 2 crisis interventions in the month of November
This is the season of college applications and early decisions which have caused an increase in the crisis interventions for the month of November. Students are now seeking out the mental health professionals on behalf of their friends and fellow students. She has had many ongoing conversations about depression and anxiety to help our students learn coping skills and to help them recognize triggers.
Programming
The focus for programming in October was healthy relationships, consent, and communication. Efforts included tackling the importance of consent in everyday life, practicing conflict resolution, and how to practice bystander intervention strategies. There were also our regular Halloween themed activities like the costume competition as well as a Trunk-or-Treat event for students.
Spirit Week this year was held the week after Alumni weekend under the themes, Twin Day, Dress to Impress, Celebrity Look-alike, Halloween costume day, and Meme Day
Other activities in October included a floor Olympics programs where students competed against each other in activities like volleyball and Tug-o-war for bragging rights. The goal for this program was to create/nurture floor pride while teaching friendly competition. There were also HELIX and Sophomore specific programming such as examining Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and a “Guac” and Talk that brought Sophomores together to celebrate traditions, voices, and contributions that inspires them.
The programming for November focused on Mental Health Literacy and Stress Skills. Staff helped students recognize stress signals and to map their personal triggers. They also explored coping mechanisms such as grounding, deep breathing, music, and journaling.
The CLs held a Halloween Party and SGA hosted a Clubs-giving event for students while staff members focused on individual floor programming.
Staffing
We are currently interviewing to fill four staff positions (2 male and 2 females) with one verbal acceptance.
In October, staff focused on developing a positive team culture and a had a chance to give feedback about their supervisors’ leadership styles, concerns, positive contributions, and potential adjustments they would like to see.
Admissions and Talent Development
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Jason Hudnell, Director of Admissions and Talent Development
This fall, ASMSA advanced its statewide outreach through strong admissions engagement and robust Talent Development programming. Recruiters conducted school visits across Arkansas, while administrative staff coordinated tours, mailed materials, and organized Preview Days. Their efforts resulted in 113 submitted applications, 193 applications started, 193 family tours, and 118 Preview Day registrations. Talent Development supported 1,070 ASMSA-TIP students and 154 educators, delivering field trips, MASH-Ups, conferences, and global learning experiences. Highlights included statewide thematic field trips, a generative AI conference for GT educators, a Japan study tour, and high student achievement in national competitions. These initiatives reflect ASMSA’s ongoing commitment to access, enrichment, and student success.
By the Numbers
• 113 prospective students have submitted applications for Fall 2026 admission
• 193 prospective students have started applications for Fall 2026 admission
• 1,070 students have enrolled in 2025-2026 ASMSA-TIP from 72 counties
• 154 educators have enrolled in 2025-2026 ASMSA-TIP Educator from 54 counties
• 193 prospective families have toured ASMSA campus this fall
• 118 prospective families have registered for a Preview Day this fall
Admissions
This fall, the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts (ASMSA) Admissions Team has worked diligently to connect with prospective students and families across the state, ensuring that our campus and programs are visible, accessible, and engaging to those considering the ASMSA experience. Our recruiters and administrative staff have worked diligently to showcase the opportunities and benefits of attending the early college campus of the University of Arkansas System.
Recruiters have been at the forefront of outreach efforts, traveling extensively to schedule and execute school visits throughout the state. By engaging directly with students and educators, our team has shared detailed information about ASMSA’s rigorous academic programs, residential life, and the unique early college experience our students enjoy. These efforts have provided prospective students with the insight needed to make informed decisions about their educational futures.
Behind the scenes, our administrative staff has been instrumental in supporting these initiatives. They have coordinated campus tours, ensuring that each visit runs smoothly and provides families with a personalized, informative experience. Additionally, they have managed the preparation and mailing of informational packets to prospective students, maintained communications with families, and planned events such as our Fall Preview Days. These efforts have allowed families to explore the ASMSA campus, meet faculty and current students, and gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities available.
The results of this collective effort are reflected in our admissions statistics this fall. To date, 113 prospective students have submitted their applications, while an additional 193 students have started the application process. These numbers reflect both the interest in ASMSA’s programs and the effectiveness of our outreach initiatives. On-campus engagement has also been strong, with 193 prospective families touring the ASMSA campus this fall and 118 families registering to attend one of our two Fall Preview Days, held on October 4 and December 6.
The work completed by the ASMSA Admissions Team this fall highlights our commitment to providing comprehensive support to prospective students and families while promoting the exceptional educational experience ASMSA offers. Through coordinated outreach, personalized engagement, and thoughtful planning, our team continues to ensure that students across Arkansas are aware of, and able to access, the opportunities that ASMSA provides.
ASMSA Talent Development and ASMSA-TIP
In the past quarter, Talent Development has engaged communities statewide through field trips, MASH-Ups, and ASMSA-TIP events. The 2025-2026 ASMSA-TIP Cohort currently includes 1,070 students from 72 of Arkansas’ 75 counties. Additionally, 154 educators representing 54 counties have joined the ASMSA-TIP Educator cohort.
In September, 43 GT educators attended a one-day conference focused on generative AI in gifted education, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Alicia Cotabish. Talent Development hosted a piratethemed field trip for 33 students from 2 districts and ASMSA-TIP, exploring cryptography, cartography, and communication. That month’s MASH-Up engaged 54 students and was taught by faculty members Dr. Allyn Dodd and Brad Wreyford.
In October, Talent Development took programming on the road to Northwest Arkansas, offering a field trip for 143 students from 5 districts and a MASH-Up for 11 students. On campus, the Spooky Science field trip brought 72 students from 3 districts and ASMSA-TIP for hands-on chemistry and physics experiences. The office also facilitated travel to Osaka, Japan, for 11 students and 4 chaperones.
In November, 17 ASMSA-TIP Alumni families attended a college planning seminar led by Associate Dean for College Counseling, Bret Vallun. Faculty Rachel Elia, Bryan Iaemsang, and Fernanda Espinosa facilitated a MASH-Up for 55 students. 24 ASMSA-TIP students took the AMC 10 with ASMSA, with one qualifying for the AIME (top 2.5% nationwide).Talent Development also hosted a cosmic-themed field trip in Southeast Arkansas, serving 119 students from 10 districts. Finally, Dr. Ash Hicks and Jennifer Park, GT Consultant, traveled to Pittsburgh, PA to attend NAGC 2025 and present a poster on the work of ASMSA-TIP.
To close out December, 137 students from 11 districts and ASMSA-TIP will participate in Chess Day @ ASMSA on 12/3 and 30 educators will conclude the semester with a 4-hour PD experience on campus on 12/12.
Office of Sophomore Scholar Development
During the past quarter, the Office of Scholar Development (OSD) continued to broaden academic enrichment, deepen student preparedness for competitive opportunities, and expand experiential learning pathways across campus. Our work remains centered on ensuring that ASMSA students gain the skills, confidence, and exposure necessary to navigate their precollege journey and position themselves for success in selective academic, leadership, and career-oriented programs.
In September, the office launched the fall advising cycle, meeting with more than 85 sophomores and juniors to review academic progress, create application timelines, and support ACT readiness. Scholar Development delivered targeted information sessions for several national and pre-college programs, including the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y), Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX), MIT Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES), Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America (LEDA), New York University and Princeton’s Bovard pre-college summer programs, and the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). These sessions engaged more than 50 students, with approximately 35 beginning drafts of essays and preparing application materials with individualized guidance. In addition, Dr. Amy Baldwin from the University of Central Arkansas led an on-campus NoteTaking and Study Skills workshop, providing students with practical tools for academic and classroom success.
October provided expanded access to leadership and career-aligned experiences for both our Early Entrance and HELIX students. The office offered evening ACT test-prep sessions, peer mentoring, and open discussions focused on overcoming challenges and building on current successes. Students participated in time-blocking activities to strengthen time management and organizational skills. They also explored government, civic leadership, and public policy pathways through opportunities with the Clinton Presidential Library, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) NextGen Latino Leadership Program, the Senate Page Program, and judicial shadowing in both civil and criminal courts.
In November, the office formally introduced the Sophomore Scholar Leadership & Life Skills Program, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth. The first cohort of Sophomore Scholars of the Month was recognized for outstanding academic performance, leadership, character, and engagement. OSD also advanced its long-term experiential learning goals through the launch of the Summer 2026 and Beyond Industry & Education Partnership Initiative. Outreach will begin with alumni, engineering firms, hospitals, nonprofits, arts organizations, business partners, and higher-education institutions to develop summer mentorships, internships, research opportunities, and academic-year placements that will provide early workforce skills and meaningful exposure to professional environments.
As the semester comes to a close in December, the office continued to monitor academic and wellness trends through monthly digital check-ins, synthesizing 65–75 responses to guide student support. Students finalized competitive program applications while ACT communication and planning continued for the February test cycle.
OSD is excited about the growth and future direction of this work. Through these interconnected efforts and with the support of our Parents’ Committee Chair and partners such as Dr. Alicia Cotabish of UCA, who is assisting with the design of our summer partnership pilot program. We are cultivating a stronger foundation of readiness, opportunity, and engagement for ASMSA students. Each initiative reflects our commitment to building pathways that elevate student achievement today and expand future possibilities in college, career, and life. The office welcomes collaboration with “Partners in Education” who wish to assist our students on their path to possibilities; please reach out to Ms. Conley if you would like to serve in any capacity.
Campus Operations
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Phil Grace, Director, IT and Campus Operations
Campus Operations was focused this quarter on campus events, the start of the fall term, and meeting the daily needs of ASMSA. In addition, several new projects are ongoing on campus.
By the Numbers
• IT has resolved 104 support tickets this quarter, and the maintenance and janitorial team received 186 emailed requests. This does not include in-person requests, special projects, or IT room setup for events.
• The Esports championship on Dec 8th is expected to bring approximately 300 visitors to our campus, including 60 competition participants.
• The new Student Center Chiller is 225 tons, exceeding the cooling needs of the building to ensure a comfortable residential experience for our students.
• ASMSA now has its own block of 256 public IP addresses
Academic Building Stairwell Renovations & Little Pine Parking
The stairwell upgrade project has been completed. The scope of work included painting, electrical and lighting enhancements, as well as new flooring. Renovations commenced on Tuesday, September 2, and the final punch list was completed in November.
Construction of the Little Pine parking lot was delayed due to planning requirements with the City of Hot Springs. With the plans now approved, construction is scheduled to begin the week of December 8. Completion of the lot is anticipated by the end of February 2026.
New Maintenance Building and Woodshop
Construction of the new maintenance building is progressing as planned. The site has been secured, and the groundwork is complete. Footings have been poured, and both underlayment and in-ground utilities have been prepared. The slab is expected to be poured within the next couple of weeks. Building materials are scheduled to arrive in early January, with a preliminary completion date targeted for early June.
Student Center Chiller
The replacement chiller for the Student Center is scheduled to arrive, with installation beginning on December 22. The process is expected to take several days to remove the existing unit and install the new system. The December 22 start date was intentionally selected to minimize disruption to campus operations, as students will be on break and only a limited number of staff will be present.
Esports Championships
In October, the Arkansas Athletic Association issued a call for schools to host the State Esports Championships scheduled for December 8. ASMSA submitted a bid and was selected as the host site. On December 8, approximately 300 visitors from across the state are expected to attend the event on our campus.
IT
This fall, the IT Department continued installing updated badge card readers to replace outdated units and ensure compatibility with mobile credentials. In addition, the department has initiated the migration to a new help ticketing system, which will soon be expanded to include the Maintenance Department. The new system is designed to provide a streamlined, user-friendly experience, particularly for non-IT staff who will be utilizing it.
Cybersecurity
The next phase of the Baker Tilly review is scheduled to begin in December, with a primary focus on the Microsoft Security Scorecard. In partnership with ARE-ON, ASMSA has initiated the transition to its own block of registered public IP addresses. Currently, ASMSA operates on a block shared with UAMS. By moving to a dedicated block, our institution will gain greater flexibility to mitigate cybersecurity threats through services provided by ARE-ON. The IP address migration is expected to be completed in late December or early January
Office of Institutional Advancement
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Cara Jay, Interim Director of Institutional Advancement
This quarter, the Office of Institutional Advancement focused on strengthening connections across alumni, families, donors, and friends of ASMSA, while continuing to explore new ways to engage students in advancement efforts. Key initiatives included Giving Tuesday and End-ofYear Giving, Homecoming, early-stage planning for the Association for Alumni and Friends of ASMSA (AAFA) revamp, and expanding the role of Student Ambassadors in events, stewardship, and communications. Many of these efforts are still in development, allowing the office to test approaches that will have the greatest impact on engagement and support for students.
By the Numbers
• $72,676 raised to date in FY26.
• $14,200 received in grants.
• $7,325 raised for Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday and End-of-Year Giving
This year’s Giving Tuesday campaign highlighted ASMSA’s role in supporting students beyond academics. Messaging emphasized the increasing number of students who rely on the school for stability, essential needs, and emergency assistance. The campaign elevated two efforts the Residential Student Support Fund and the creation of a Student Stability Fund which help meet practical needs that fall outside traditional budgets. These funds ensure that all students, regardless of background, can fully benefit from their ASMSA experience. End-of-Year giving will continue throughout December.
Alumni Homecoming Recap
Alumni Homecoming was held on Saturday, October 11th and brought alumni and families together for a full day of activities. Alumni were invited to reconnect through panels, alumni vs. student matches, and dinner, while families joined for a parent update session, a campus cookout, and student-led events including Quiz Bowl and Ultimate Frisbee. The blended format supported the larger goal of creating inclusive opportunities for alumni, students, and families to meaningfully interact and connect with ASMSA.
Revitalizing AAFA
Work to revitalize the Association for Alumni and Friends of ASMSA (AAFA) is continuing in early-stage development. This quarter, the office focused on gathering stakeholder input and planning informal AAFA pop-up gatherings to reconnect alumni and friends ahead of the formal relaunch. The first event is scheduled for December 11 in Hot Springs, followed by a gathering in Fayetteville on December 16, with a Little Rock pop-up planned for January. The Fayetteville event will feature three alumni panelists sharing their career experiences, while similar panels are being considered for the other gatherings. Insights from these events will help shape the future structure and scope of the AAFA.
Student Ambassadors
The Student Ambassador program continues to evolve as we explore ways for students to take on
more meaningful roles in advancement work. This quarter, Ambassadors assisted with event support, content creation, and stewardship projects, helping the office test small-scale approaches to integrating students more directly into ASMSA’s philanthropic culture. These pilots will continue into the spring as we assess which opportunities provide the greatest mutual benefit for students and the institution.
Helen Selig Piano Dedication
This quarter, the Office of Institutional Advancement worked with the Selig family to coordinate the loan of Helen Selig’s piano to ASMSA. The instrument will be formally dedicated at the Wind Ensemble concert on December 9th. The collaboration also highlighted the ongoing impact of the Helen Selig Promise Kept Endowment, which the family strengthened earlier this year. The dedication provides an opportunity to recognize the Selig family’s long-standing support and to share this meaningful addition with the campus community.
Human Resources
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Brandi Brazil, Director of Human Resources & Campus Culture
The ASMSA Office of Human Resources completed recruitment efforts for FY25, updated the Employee Handbook and Faculty Advancement Plan for FY25, and organized back to school professional development as well as employee engagement opportunities.
By the Numbers
• Non-academic position filled: 10 (since June 1, 2025)
• Academic positions filled: 1 (since June 1, 2025)
• Positions staffed: 8 full-time, 3 part-time (since June 1, 2025)
• Maximum attendance at wellness and professional development days (2): 85
Recruitment
ASMSA welcomed several new team members this quarter who are already contributing meaningfully to campus operations and student support. Alison Rush, Student Success Coordinator (09/16/25), has quickly begun making a positive impact on student engagement and academic support. Kristin Grant, Flute Instructor (09/22/25), has joined us on a part-time basis and is enhancing our arts programming. Jack Schrader, Maintenance (10/01/25), has completed our maintenance staffing needs and is now fully integrated into the Campus Operations team.
We currently have four vacancies within Residential Life resulting from an in-system transfer, two out-of-state relocations, and one career transition. Recruitment efforts are progressing strongly, with one offer pending and three on-campus visits scheduled in the coming weeks. We anticipate these efforts will help restore full staffing and support continued excellence in the residential experience.
Employee Engagement
In partnership with the ASMSA Foundation, “Donuts, Tees, & a Chance to Win!” was hosted in September as a lighthearted opportunity for staff to step away from their daily routines and connect with colleagues. Participants enjoyed complimentary donuts, received ASMSA-branded t-shirts, and entered a raffle for prizes. This initiative provided a brief but meaningful moment for employees to recharge and strengthen community spirit on campus.
ASMSA will continue hosting monthly birthday celebrations in partnership with the Dolphin Café, recognizing both employees and students while creating opportunities for interaction between staff and students.
We are currently preparing for our annual Holiday “Soup-er” Potluck, a new tradition that brings staff together to celebrate the season, build community, snap some festive holiday photos, and partake in a game of holiday sock exchange.
Professional Development
In October, ASMSA hosted a campus-wide Professional Development Day featuring an engaging lineup of speakers and activities. After a brief General Assembly meeting, our own Dr.
Krakowiak opened the day with an insightful session on the “Science of Learning, ” highlighting evidence-based strategies that strengthen teaching and student success. We then welcomed Jackie Pelland of Slingshot25, who delivered an inspiring session on “Resilience in Times of Change, ” offering practical tools for navigating organizational transitions. We enjoyed a campus favorite José’s Mexican Grill for a catered lunch, followed by a spirited round of Kahoot! which brought plenty of energy and friendly competition.
We concluded the day by recognizing nine employees whose service and dedication continue to advance ASMSA’s mission. Honorees represented milestone anniversaries ranging from 5 to 25 years, reflecting the deep commitment of our faculty and staff to our students and institution.
Employee Wellness
ASMSA hosted our annual Wellness Day in October. The event offered a blend of education, hands-on experiences, and preventive care opportunities that supported our commitment to employee well-being.
We were pleased to partner with Natural Hearing Centers, who provided free hearing screenings on-site. Christian Ritenour delivered an energizing session titled “Burnout to Bliss,” offering practical strategies for managing stress and fostering personal resilience. Dr. James Cooper presented on spinal health and offered complimentary spinal screenings, giving staff valuable insight into musculoskeletal wellness. Participants also enjoyed an engaging Desk Detox Pilates demonstration by Noey Green, which highlighted simple, accessible ways to incorporate movement into the workday. Dr. Karen Achtermann shared the benefits of cupping and acupuncture and generously offered free mini-sessions to attendees. Hammer & Stain provided a choice of a Pebble Art experience or the Splash Tent, giving participants a calming sensory break in the midst of a busy day. We concluded with our keynote speaker, Allyson Lewis, whose presentation, “Neuroplasticity: The (Really Cool) Brain Science of Innovation, Creativity, and Happiness,” captivated attendees with practical strategies for personal and professional growth.
Overall, Wellness Day showcased ASMSA’s strong community partnerships and delivered a meaningful, energizing experience that reinforced our focus on employee well-being and campus vitality.
Student Government Association
December 2025 Quarterly Report
Grace Ann Conn, President of Student Government Association
ASMSA’s Student Government Association has been working towards curating impactful events and building on the SGA balance to help the next SGA’s executive board.
By the Numbers
● 13 Approved Club Fund Requests
● 16 Clubs participated in Dolphinstock
● 81 Dominos Slice the Price cards were sold
● SGA profiled $810 dollars during the Dominos Slice the Price fundraiser
Clubsgiving
Previously known as Fall Fest, on Friday November 14th Clubsgiving was held in the student center courtyard. Students purchased food, played games, and sang karaoke. Students could purchase tickets for one dollar each and use the tickets to buy food or get a credit to enter the ultimate frisbee competition or sing karaoke.
Dominos Slice the Price
Over the course of October 21st to November 5th, SGA reached out to the student body, parents, and faculty to raise money for future SGA events. Overall, 81 cards were sold and $810 dollars were raised.
Grateful Grams
On Wednesday, November 19th, students gathered in the cafeteria after study hours to make “Grateful Grams” for their peers, faculty, and family back at home. During the event, a festive movie was playing and students enjoyed cookies, snacks, and drinks. The event was so successful that more cards had to be printed within 10 minutes of commencement and no refreshments were left by the end of it.
Spirit Week
December 8th-12th SGA will hold the second spirit week of the semester, allowing students to find some fun in the stressful week right before finals. Some of the spirit days are Ugly Sweater Day and Holiday Havoc Day.
