April 30, 2025
To the Members of ASMSA’s Community of Learning:
At ASMSA, we talk a lot about helping students grow not just academically, but personally. Yes, our mission is about equipping students to lead lives of intellectual and professional accomplishment. But just as important is helping them learn how to navigate challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and keep moving forward when things don’t go according to plan.
That’s where this idea I came across recently the “Never Broke a Bone” Theory really struck a chord. It’s not a scientific theory, but it makes a point that’s worth thinking about. If someone’s never broken a bone, they’ve never had to deal with the pain, the healing, or the slow path back to full strength. And if a student has never struggled in the classroom or hit a wall with a research project or a demanding course, they may not be fully ready for the tougher moments that are bound to come later
At ASMSA, we believe it’s better to face those challenges now while students are surrounded by a support system that includes caring teachers, student life professionals, academic advisors, and peers. Our courses are rigorous by design. Students push themselves in research, art, music, and more. Sometimes they stumble. And that’s not just okay it’s part of the process. Because learning how to struggle, recover, and adapt is just as important as any content we teach. The benefit of the residential experience and ASMSA’s overall student success framework is that these young people are given both the space to experience challenges and a springboard to grow from those learning moments.
We’re getting ready to welcome a new class of students while celebrating the graduating Class of 2025. Both groups remind us of why our mission matters. ASMSA isn’t just preparing students for college. We’re preparing them for life with the confidence and resilience that come from facing challenges head-on.
Thanks for your continued support of ASMSA and the extraordinary students who call this place home.
Sincerely,
Corey Alderdice Executive Director
Office of the Executive Director
May 2025 Quarterly Report
Corey Alderdice, ASMSA
Director
By the Numbers
• A record 87 ASMSA students and employees will participate in this year’s Global Learning Program. Since the initiative began in summer 2013, 668 members of ASMSA’s community of learning have benefited from the experience.
• ASMSA will eliminate the annual Concurrent Assessment of $500 beginning in Fall 2025. This move is made possible through the ACCESS Act as well as the new “ACCESS to Acceleration Scholarship” approved by the General Assembly. The maximum any ASMSA students to attend ASMSA will be $350.
• ASMSA’s 31st Commencement Ceremony honoring the Class of 2025 will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Oaklawn Event Center in Hot Springs
ASMSA to Launch Online Academy
Arkansas students and parents seeking choices for high-quality educational opportunities will have an exciting new option this fall through the ASMSA Online Academy. The ASMSA Online Academy is a full-time online program and will provide a robust curriculum focused around Advanced Placement (AP) courses that emphasizes the humanities, critical thinking and STEM topics while meeting state graduation requirements.
Students enrolled in the ASMSA Online Academy will complete a thoughtfully curated sequence of AP courses over two years, generally as high school juniors and seniors although younger students who demonstrate academic readiness may apply. Students who complete the program are positioned to earn the AP Capstone Diploma and be positioned for AP Scholar designation
The annual tuition for the ASMSA Online Academy is $5,000, pending final authorization by the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees in May. Families may use the state’s Educational Freedom Accounts (EFA), which were established through the Arkansas LEARNS Act, to cover tuition, ensuring there are no net costs for enrollment in the program. This approach ensures families have access to top-tier coursework while still preserving additional EFA funds to cover technology, enrichment programs or other approved needs.
Applications for the program are now open, and the priority application deadline is June 1. The program is open to all students in Arkansas, but they must have completed foundational math courses including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry before enrolling in the ASMSA Online Academy. Students will also need access to a reliable computer or laptop with a stable internet connection.
The ASMSA Online Academy builds upon the strong foundation of the institution’s residential program in Hot Springs, which serves as the early college campus of the University of Arkansas System that specializes in the education of academically and artistically motivated students of all backgrounds throughout the state. While the residential program will remain a cornerstone of the school’s identity, the ASMSA Online Academy will expand access to students across the state
who may not have access to advanced coursework in their local schools or be ready to live away from home.
Since 1999, ASMSA has been a driving force behind distance learning for students across the state’s 75 counties. The ASMSA Online Academy will use that experience to offer a blend of asynchronous learning with live sessions that encourage real-time engagement. Students also will benefit from personalized academic coaching, one-on-one college advising, and access to mental health resources. Structured mentoring sessions and community-building activities will help foster connections among students and with their instructors.
Additional information about the ASMSA Online Academy is available online at asmsa.org/onlineacademy.
95th Arkansas General Assembly
Members of the Arkansas General Assembly are scheduled to reconvene in Little Rock on May 5th to formally adjourn for the session. A variety of legislation with impacts on K-12 education, higher education, and ASMSA specifically were passed over the last several months. A listing of legislation of interest to education and ASMSA is attached to this report. Specific legislation of significance includes the following Acts.
Act 340/341 – ACCESS: The majority of ASMSA’s concerns related to the cost of concurrent credit programs were addressed through amendments to the bill prior to it moving through the legislative process. The bill does restrict schools from passing along any cost related to concurrent credit; however, an expanded “ACCESS to Acceleration” Scholarship replaces the existing Concurrent Challenge Scholarship. The new award provides additional funding support; however, it draws those funds from students’ future Academic Challenge Award.
The other notable addition in ACCESS is the expansion of the Governor’s Scholarship. The Governor’s Scholarship provides an additional $5,000 per year beyond the Academic Challenge Scholarship for a total of $35,000 across four years. While the award is currently given to one student in any county where a student is not eligible for the Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship, the expansion makes the scholarship available to any student who earns the new state Diploma of Distinction. Students earn eligibility by completing an associate degree, earning AP Capstone Diploma, or achieving AP Scholar with Distinction status.
ASMSA is currently finalizing plans for students to have access to all coursework on campus to earn an associate degree. While this path is achievable fairly easily for students who enter as sophomores, it does present some issues for students who enroll in the Art and Music PODs as well as those who are only on campus for four semesters. The goal is not to detract from novel ASMSA coursework that does not confirm to existing college courses. ASMSA hopes to begin a conversation with ADE about recognizing the ASMSA diploma, which includes a minimum of 30 college credit hours as a means of earning the Diploma of Distinction.
Act 648 – Tuition for ASMSA Online Programs: Minor revisions to ASMSA’s enabling legislation were approved that allow ASMSA to charge a tuition for online coursework. General
Counsel’s office determined this provision was necessary for both the Online Academy as well as ASMSA’s participation in the Course Choice program.
Act 779 – State Facilities Insurance: The State has begun explorations of bringing all state, higher education, and K-12 education facilities under a self-administered insurance program. In FY25, ASMSA’s annual cost for facilities insurance increased from approximately $25,000 per year to more than $170,000. The move is intended to help abate significant future rate increases while also ensuring that all state facilities have appropriate levels of coverage in the event of catastrophic events.
Act 730 – Course Choice Program: The Course Choice components of the LEARNS Act of 2023 have been delayed until the 2026-27 school year. The bill provides further clarification on how much both vendors and districts can charge for online learning. It removed “C”-graded schools from the requirement to allow students to complete core coursework online at the district’s expense; however, the program did expand options to include students in 6th through 8th grades. ASMSA believes there is potential in this new audience, especially for offering accelerated math coursework to gifted students through the Talent Identification Program (ASMSA-TIP).
Act 805 – Definitions of Bullying: The new law further clarifies the definitions of bullying. While ASMSA has not seen an increase in bullying, we have found that students and parents alike are often quick to classify any kind of negative interaction as bullying. The law highlights that bullying is an intention, directed, and ongoing pattern of behavior.
ASMSA was unable to pursue legislation during the session for a per-pupil funding model. The Department of Education opened a conversation about the potential for ongoing facilities funding support, though was unable to offer said funding in light of other legislative priorities. Director Alderdice met with both Secretary Jacob Oliva and ADHE Commissioner Ken Warden during an informal campus visit in April about the school’s continuing needs on both fronts.
Facilities
and Campus Master Planning
ASMSA is scheduled to provide formal notice to the City of Hot Springs on May 5, 2025, that the exit from the former St. Joseph Hospital complex is now complete. The delay from the original January 1, 2025, timeline resulted from the City’s need to vacate a shop building on campus that had been transferred to the school. From there, the school was able to transfer remaining materials from the Woodshop and Maintenance Office to the structure. The transfer starts the clock on the 30-month demolition timeline established in the 2010 non-binding City Board of Directors resolution.
Architectural and engineering design work on the new Maintenance Shop has reached the 90% completion stage. Campus officials and planning team met with Architecture Plus last month to finalize the designs and needs for the project. The project will go to bid in the coming weeks, and construction is slated to begin this summer. The goal is to have facility ready by August 2026.
Feasibility discussions continue for the Fitness Center project. While funding is available to move forward with this facility, the lack of new capital funding from ADE raises the question of delaying the project into the future in favor of continuing to hold funds for one of the campus Arts facilities that will be placed in the footprint of the former hospital complex. Two nominal campus projects will be completed this summer. The two interior stairwells of the Academic Building will receive new flooring, paint, and lighting. A small 33-space parking lot will be constructed on a parcel owned by ASMSA along Little Pine Street. The satellite lot will serve long-term needs for campus but will also address parking spaces that will be lost both during and after the construction of the Maintenance Shop.
Conversations continue regarding the 2033 Facilities Plan with a desire to complete the document over the summer.
FY26 Budget Planning
ASMSA has submitted a draft budget for the 2025-26 Fiscal Year to the University of Arkansas System for Board of Trustees consideration at their May meeting. Stephen Malec, ASMSA’s new Director of Finance, completed a fresh analysis of current and longitudinal expenses as part of the budgeting process this year.
Earlier forecasts from the state Depart of Finance and Administration (DFA), estimated around a 1.5% increase in Educational Excellence Trust Funds, which are derived from Sales and Use Tax collections. The March 2025 General Revenue Report saw a sharp decline in this year’s collections based on winter weather and general economic concerns. With uncertainty surrounding federal economic policies and consumer confidence, ASMSA has opted for a flat budget for FY26 assuming funding at the same level as FY25.
As such, ASMSA will opt to provide employees with a one-time bonus payment this spring in lieu of merit adjustments for FY26. This is only the second time since 2012 that the school has pursued a one-time bonus over COLA or merit adjustments, which is extraordinary compared to other institutions of higher education in the state. Funding increases in FY25 will primarily be directed to fixed-cost increases such as utilities and contract services (MEP maintenance, food service, insurance, security, etc.).
Quiz Bowl Team Wins 7A State Championship
ASMSA’s Quiz Bowl Team captured the Class 7A state title in the Arkansas Governor’s Quiz Bowl Championships. ASMSA outscored Bryant High School by 340-245 in the championship round of the state tournament on Saturday, April 26. This was ASMSA’s first appearance in the championship match since 2013 and first victory since 2012. A specific provision in AAA policies compels ASMSA to compete in the 7A classification and is the only school for which this rule stands.
ASMSA qualified for the title game by going undefeated in the early rounds of the Class 7A state tournament that were held at Little Rock Central High School on April 12. The team had qualified for the state tournament by winning the Class 7A West Regional Tournament in March. That finish allowed ASMSA to enter the tournament as the No. 3 seed, giving it a first-round bye.
Juniors Ridgely Bond and Jacob Lewis were named to the All-State Tournament Team. Bond was also named the tournament MVP. They also qualified for the All-Star Tournament to be held on May 3 based on their performance in the regional tournament. The team is coached by Caleb Grisham, a mathematics Instructor of Excellence at the school. The tournament is sponsored by the Arkansas Governor's Quiz Bowl Association.
ASMSA
Wins State Science Fair Title; 6 Students to Compete at ISEF
The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts won the school trophy and two students were recognized among the best projects in the state at the Arkansas State Science and Engineering Fair.
Junior Miranda Lee of Conway won second place in the Best in State Individual Awards, and junior Anna Le of Fort Smith placed third in the Best in State Individual Awards. Their placement in the state competition qualified them to compete at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, which will be held May 10-16 in Columbus, Ohio.
They will join four other ASMSA students seniors Kolten Shook of North Little Rock, senior Lukas Bowler of Hot Springs, senior Carmella Lewis of Alma, and senior Christine Dunning of Clarksville who earned the opportunity to compete at ISEF at the West Central Regional Science Fair held at ASMSA in February. ISEF is the world’s largest pre-college STEM competition. Students from around the world are expected to compete for awards, prizes and scholarships.
The school trophy winner is determined by the number of points each school accumulates based on their place award winners divided by the total number of projects entered in the state science fair. The Arkansas State Science and Engineering Fair was held April 4-5 at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.
8 Students Earn Recognition at Arts Across Arkansas Contest
Eight Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts students earned recognition in the Arts Across Arkansas 2025 competition, including students sweeping all three places in one category. A total of 23 ASMSA students were finalists in the competition this year.
ASMSA students took first-, second-, and third-places in the Music Composition category. Students also placed in the Literary Arts, Film and Visual Arts categories. The event included exhibitions and performances by the more than 40 students selected as finalists, including 23 ASMSA students. Awards were announced on March 29 during a ceremony at Westwood School for Performing Arts in North Little Rock.
Students who earned recognition were: Music Composition - Faith Wesley, a junior from Hot Springs, first place, “Paraclete” Bryce Jackson, a junior from Salem, second place, “Paris 1944” Matthew Carter, a junior from Hot Springs, third place, “Goku”; Literary Arts - Halie Cook, a junior from Pine Bluff, first place, “Dollar Store Collar” Saylor Ross, a senior from Crossett, third place, “Homecoming Queen”; Film - Makenna Kutzschebauch, a junior from Benton, second place, “Dead Women Walking” Jamie Hernandez, a senior from Decatur, third place,
“Spring”; and Visual Arts - Coley Rogers, a junior from Cherokee Village, second place, “Self Portrait”.
Arts Across Arkansas is a program that aims to encourage, enhance and expand students’ original thoughts, processes, personal experiences and artistic abilities, according to the program’s website. It is sponsored by the Arkansas Arts Council, an agency of the Division of Arkansas Heritage. The competition features competition in six categories: Visual Arts, Dance Choreography, Film, Music Composition, Literary Arts and Photography. ASMSA students were selected as finalists in the Visual Arts, Film, Music Composition, Literary Arts and Photography.
Allen Selected for Prestigious Summer Research Program
Senior Maya Allen has been selected to participate in the prestigious The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program. Each year, about 40 undergraduate and high school students from across the United States are chosen to participate in the 10-week summer program where they conduct genetics and genomics research. Studying with an experienced scientific mentor, participants will develop an independent project, implement their plan, analyze data, and report results. They will present their findings to researchers, other students and parents at the end of the summer. Allen will participate in the program at the laboratory’s site in Bar Harbor, Maine. The program will run from May 31 through August 8.
Allen is the first ASMSA student to be selected to participate in the program. Dr. Patrycja Krakowiak, chair of ASMSA’s Science Department and a Life Sciences Instructor of Excellence, wrote a recommendation for Allen as part of the application process. She has written many letters for students and ASMSA alumni in the past and said Allen’s selection “was an overwhelming surprise” since it is rare for high school students to be selected for the program.
Allen won’t be the only one with an ASMSA connection at the summer program, however. Krakowiak said Sydney Hammond, a member of the Class of 2023 and for whom Krakowiak also wrote a recommendation, was also selected to participate in this year’s summer program.
Biggs Selected as Jack Kent Cooke Scholar
Senior Damian Biggs has been selected as a Jack Kent Cooke Scholar by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. By being one of 70 high school seniors nationwide selected as a scholar, Biggs will receive the Cooke College Scholarship. The scholarship provides last-dollar funding up to $55,000 per year after all institutional aid to pursue a bachelor’s degree at any accredited undergraduate institution. The goal of the scholarship is to help students who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability, leadership, and persistence avoid student debt, according to the foundation’s website.
Commencement
ASMSA’s Commencement ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Oaklawn Event Center in Hot Springs. Due to the size of the venue, tickets are required and the ceremony is not open to the general public. A livestream will be available on ASMSA’s social channels.
Senior Hailey Judkins has been selected to represent the Class of 2025 with remarks at the ceremony. SGA President Karilynn Arellano will also give remarks.
Giuseppi (Seppy) Basili, Executive Director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation will deliver the Commencement Address to our graduates The JKCF has been a tremendous partner for ASMSA over the past decade. We were one of the three original schools awarded a Selective Public High Schools grant in 2015, which led to the development of the HELIX initiative. Their support also made the renovation of Selig Hall possible. With this year’s ceremony honoring the first cohort of students to complete the HELIX Prep experience, the time was fitting to also show our appreciation to the JKCF.
95th Arkansas General Assembly
Legislation of Interest to ASMSA and Education
Last Updated April 25, 2025
Gov. Sanders’ Priority Education Legislation
Act 341 TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS ACCESS ACT; AND TO AMEND VARIOUS Act 340 PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE AS THEY RELATE TO EDUCATION IN THE STATE OF ARKANSAS.
Act 122 TO CREATE THE BELL TO BELL, NO CELL ACT; AND TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICIES WITH REGARD TO STUDENT USE OF PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
ASMSA Legislation
Act 648 TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING THE ARKANSAS SCHOOL FOR MATHEMATICS, SCIENCES, AND THE ARTS; AND TO AMEND THE LAW RELATED TO THE TUITION AND FEES PAID BY STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE ONLINE PROGRAMS.
University of Arkansas System Appropriation Bill
Act 193 AN ACT FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS - SYSTEM AND VARIOUS DIVISIONS APPROPRIATION FOR THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR
Act 258 AN ACT FOR THE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT APPROPRIATION
Included here is appropriation capacity for the following ASMSA projects: Downtown Arts Center ($1 15M); Wellness Center ($1M); and STEM Research Lab upgrades ($350,000)
Act 79 AN ACT FOR THE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION REAPPROPRIATION
Per-Pupil Funding Bills
Act 909 TO AMEND PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING AMOUNTS UNDER THE PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING ACT OF 2003
Included here as a point of reference for the EFA and Course Choice funding amounts
Most Notable Bills of Interest to ASMSA
Act 724 TO AMEND THE UNIVERSAL ACT ASSESSMENT PROGRAM ACT; AND TO AMEND THE TYPES OF ASSESSMENTS PUBLIC SCHOOLS MAY PROVIDE TO STUDENTS. (original bill title amended)
Act 779 TO CREATE A MORE SUSTAINABLE SYSTEM OF PROPERTY INSURANCE FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS, STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, AND STATE-OWNED PROPERTY; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY
Act 955 CONCERNING SAFETY AND PRIVACY IN CERTAIN ENTITIES; AND CONCERNING THE DESIGNATION OF MULTI-OCCUPANCY RESTROOMS, CHANGING ROOMS, AND SLEEPING QUARTERS IN CERTAIN ENTITIES BASED ON AN INDIVIDUAL'S SEX
Act 730 TO AMEND PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE REGARDING THE COURSE CHOICE PROGRAM
Act 920 TO AMEND PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE CONCERNING THE ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S EDUCATIONAL FREEDOM ACCOUNT PROGRAM; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY
Act 565 TO CREATE THE TEACHER AND STUDENT PROTECTION ACT OF 2025.
Act 353 TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF A STUDENT UNDER THE ARKANSAS CONCURRENT CHALLENGE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM.
Act 805 TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "BULLYING"; AND TO CREATE A PROCESS WHEREBY A PUBLIC SCHOOL MAY CONDUCT MULTIPLE, SIMULTANEOUS INVESTIGATIONS INTO THE SAME ALLEGATION OF BULLYING UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES
Act 560 TO CREATE A MORE SUSTAINABLE SYSTEM OF PROPERTY INSURANCE FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS, INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, AND STATE-OWNED PROPERTY; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY
Act 943 TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING PROHIBITED CONTRACTS BY STATE AGENCIES; AND TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF PUBLIC FUNDS BY STATE AGENCIES TO PURCHASE PROMOTIONAL ITEMS MADE IN CHINA.
Act 937 TO AMEND VARIOUS LAWS CONCERNING ACTIONS RELATED TO CERTAIN FOREIGN ENTITIES
Senate Bills of Educational Interest
Act 123 TO PROVIDE A PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENT WITH ONE BREAKFAST AT NO COST EACH SCHOOL DAY UPON HIS OR HER REQUEST WITHOUT CONSIDERATION OF THE PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENT'S ELIGIBILITY FOR A FEDERALLY FUNDED FREE OR REDUCED-PRICE MEAL
Act 120 TO AMEND THE INFORMATION THAT A SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL PROVIDE ELECTRONICALLY WITH RESPECT TO ITS SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
Act 563 TO AMEND THE DATES BY WHICH CERTAIN REQUESTS TO TRANSFER PUBLIC SCHOOLS OR PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS SHALL BE SUBMITTED.
Act 400 TO CREATE THE RELIGIOUS RIGHTS AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS ACT OF 2025
Act 644 TO ALLOW A RESIDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PERMIT A PRIVATE SCHOOL STUDENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITY AT THE RESIDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS.
Act 721 TO PROHIBIT ANTISEMITISM IN PUBLIC ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS; AND TO PROHIBIT ANTISEMITISM IN STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Act 472 TO CREATE THE ROBOTICS COMPETITION GRANT PROGRAM FOR ELIGIBLE ROBOTICS TEAMS IN PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SCHOOLS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ENCOURAGING STUDY IN THE FIELDS OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS
Act 401 TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING A SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS; AND TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE CERTIFICATION OF AN OATH FOR A SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR.
Act 402 TO AMEND VARIOUS LAWS RELATED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
Act 573 REGARDING THE DISPLAY OF THE NATIONAL MOTTO AND THE TEN COMMANDMENTS
Act 669 TO PROVIDE CIVIL IMMUNITY FOR CONFISCATION OF ALTERNATIVE NICOTINE PRODUCTS, VAPOR PRODUCTS, E-LIQUID PRODUCTS, TOBACCO PRODUCTS, AND CIGARETTE PAPERS FROM A MINOR AT A SCHOOL
SB451 TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND THE DEPARTMENT OF (Act TBD?) EDUCATION TO ESTABLISH REGIONAL BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CRISIS RESPONSE TEAMS; TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE EDUCATION OF CERTAIN STUDENTS; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY
Act 646 TO REQUIRE AN ADULT APPROVED TO OVERSEE THE ADMINISTRATION OF A STATEWIDE STUDENT ASSESSMENT TO CERTAIN STUDENTS IN A VIRTUAL SETTING TO MEET CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS
Act 726 TO REQUIRE THE SECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO FILL A VACANCY ON A SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Act 747 TO PROHIBIT DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION OFFICES, OFFICERS, POLICIES, OR PRACTICES IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Act 731 TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS STUDENT DUE PROCESS AND PROTECTION ACT
SB634 TO CREATE THE DIVISION OF INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE DIVISION OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION
House Bills of Educational Interest
Act 134 TO REVISE THE INSTRUCTION PROVIDED ON THE FAILURE OF COMMUNIST AND AUTOCRATIC SYSTEMS AND TO REINFORCE IN REQUIRED INSTRUCTION THE RESILIENCY OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL REPUBLIC SYSTEM ADOPTED BY THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Act 229 CONCERNING THE ADMINISTRATION OF INSTRUCTION ON FIREARM SAFETY IN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND OPEN-ENROLLMENT PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS.
Act 17 TO ALLOW THE ISSUANCE OF A DIGITIZED IDENTIFICATION CARD; TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE FEE FOR ISSUANCE OF A DIGITIZED DRIVER'S LICENSE OR DIGITIZED IDENTIFICATION CARD; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY
HB1162 TO ESTABLISH GOOD FRIDAY AS AN OFFICIAL STATE HOLIDAY.
Act 245 TO CLARIFY THE TYPES OF EPINEPHRINE FOR USE IN ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THIS STATE
HB1192 TO PROHIBIT THE POSSESSION OF TOBACCO, TOBACCO PRODUCTS, AND E-CIGARETTES AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS; AND TO REQUIRE THE PARENT OF A STUDENT WHO IS FOUND USING, POSSESSING, OR SMOKING TOBACCO, TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR E-CIGARETTES TO PAY A FINE
Act 53 TO ALLOW A PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEE TO BE RELEASED FROM HIS OR HER CONTRACT BY A CERTAIN DATE UPON HIS OR HER WRITTEN REQUEST; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY
Act 249 TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING SPECIAL ALLOWANCES TO ENCOURAGE EARLY RETIREMENT AND MANAGE EARLY RETIREMENT WINDOW INCENTIVES FOR EMPLOYEES OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Act 352 TO REQUIRE SCHOOLS TO SUPPORT, ESTABLISH, AND IMPLEMENT A CARDIAC EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN THAT INTEGRATES NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ELEMENTS.
Act 303 TO ALLOW THE GOVERNING BODY OF AN OPEN-ENROLLMENT PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL TO SUBMIT AN APPLICANT FOR CONSIDERATION FOR THE ARKANSAS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Act 801 TO REQUIRE SCHOOLS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN INFORMATION ON TYPE 1 AND TYPE 2 DIABETES WHEN OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION IS PROVIDED.
Act 474 TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO ESTABLISH A NEW ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS; AND TO REMOVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS FROM SCHOOL RATINGS FOR CERTAIN SCHOOL YEARS
Act 354 TO REQUIRE STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO
PROVIDE CAREER COUNSELING AND OTHER RESOURCES TO CERTAIN STUDENTS
Act 475 TO AMEND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATING IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES FOR CERTAIN STUDENTS WHO TRANSFER SCHOOLS; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.
Act 800 TO AMEND PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE TO CREATE A MORE EFFICIENT SYSTEM FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF INNOVATION IN ARKANSAS
Act 355 TO REQUIRE A PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL TO GRANT ACCESS TO ITS FACILITIES TO MILITARY RECRUITERS; AND TO REQUIRE CERTAIN STATE-SUPPORTED POSTSECONDARY INSTITUTIONS TO GRANT ACCESS TO ITS FACILITIES TO MILITARY RECRUITERS
Act 566 TO ESTABLISH THE STRENGTHENING ARKANSAS EDUCATION ACT; AND TO PROVIDE A CORE CURRICULUM AT STATE-SUPPORTED INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Act 478 TO REQUIRE INFORMATION CONCERNING HOW THE BELIEFS OF THE FOUNDING FATHERS INFLUENCED THE FOUNDING OF THE UNITED STATES TO BE EMBEDDED INTO EXISTING SOCIAL STUDIES STANDARDS
HB1710 TO PROHIBIT A SCHOOL FROM USING OR REFERENCING A PUBLIC SCHOOL RATING IN ANY ADVERTISING, PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL, OR COMMUNICATION DIRECTED TO THE PUBLIC.
Act 952 TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS CHILDREN AND TEENS’ ONLINE PRIVACY PROTECTION ACT
Act 906 TO REQUIRE REPORTING ON THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS RECEIVING ACCOMMODATIONS FOR A DISABILITY AT INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Act 878 TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF THE INCOME TAX DEDUCTION ALLOWED FOR A TEACHER'S CLASSROOM INVESTMENT
Act 683 TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE OFFENSE OF SEXUALLY GROOMING A CHILD; AND TO INCLUDE BRIBING OR ATTEMPTING TO BRIBE A CHILD IN THE OFFENSE OF SEXUALLY GROOMING A CHILD.
Act 804 TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE USE OF POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL SUPPORTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS
Act 796 TO AMEND PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE CONCERNING THE ARKANSAS SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND AND THE ARKANSAS SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.
Act 918 TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT; TO CREATE AN EXCEPTION TO ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR A STUDENT
WHO TAKES A GED TEST; AND TO AMEND THE SCORE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE GED TEST
HB1825 TO ALLOW A PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL TO REQUIRE AN ENROLLED STUDENT TO EARN ONE UNIT OF CREDIT IN A COMPUTER SCIENCE OR COMPUTER SCIENCE-RELATED CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION COURSE IN ORDER TO GRADUATE
Act 714 TO AMEND THE SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR FOOD, FOOD INGREDIENTS, AND PREPARED FOOD SOLD IN A PUBLIC, COMMON, HIGH SCHOOL, OR COLLEGE CAFETERIA OR DINING FACILITY
Act 908 TO CREATE ELI'S LAW; AND TO REQUIRE EACH PUBLIC SCHOOL TO INSTALL AN AUDIO RECORDING DEVICE IN EACH LOCKER ROOM AND DRESSING ROOM ON THE PUBLIC SCHOOL CAMPUS
Act 839 TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS STUDENT-ATHLETE PUBLICITY RIGHTS ACT; AND TO AMEND THE LAW RELATED TO ATHLETIC PROGRAM FUNDING
Act 807 TO AMEND PROVISIONS OF THE ARKANSAS CODE CONCERNING THE CREATION OF DISTRICT STRATEGIC PLANS AND THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE DIVISION OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION
Act 848 TO REQUIRE PUBLIC ENTITIES TO CREATE A POLICY CONCERNING THE AUTHORIZED USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Office
of Academic Affairs
May 2025 Quarterly Report
Stuart Flynn, Dean of Academic Affairs
As our faculty and academic support staff prepare students for final exams from May 13th-15th, we also look forward to next Fall and the 2025-26 entering class of new Sophomores and Juniors. Since the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith concurrent course drop-date on Friday, April 12th, when we removed underperforming students from concurrent rosters, Academic Support Staff have intensified academic interventions with students who need additional support through teacher and peer tutoring, task prioritization, study strategies, and test-taking strategies. Academic interventions also include parental contact to ensure strategic collaboration between parents, students, and Staff. Even as we complete interventions, we are also preparing for Fall Semester Course Registration, and Academic Support Staff will begin meeting with returning students the week of April 28th. It is always our goal to complete course registrations for returning students before they go home for summer so that when they return in August there are minimal schedule adjustments. In late May, our Academic Support Staff will shift their focus to incoming students. Student Success Coordinators will begin contacting new Sophomores and Juniors on June 2nd to arrange Zoom meetings or phone conferences to welcome them and discuss Fall Semester course registration.
By the Numbers
• Nine students were on the roster for the 2025-26 State Champion ASMSA Quiz Bowl team.
• Ten Juniors were recognized in the 2025-26 National Merit Scholarship Program.
• Eight student musicians, writers, and artists were recognized in the 2025 Arts Across Arkansas competition.
• Six students (four Seniors and two Juniors) will compete at the International Science and Engineering Fair in May.
Upcoming Events and Performances
On Friday, May 3rd, ASMSA will host the 2025 Arts & Humanities Symposium. Sessions will meet in the Academic Building and the Creativity & Innovation Complex (CIC). Academic Dead Day is Monday, May 12th, and we will conduct the 2025 academic awards ceremony the same day in the CIC at 4:00pm. ASMSA’s annual late-night breakfast for students will take place at 10:00pm on Monday, May 12th, and we will administer final exams from May 13th-15th. Final grades are due on Friday, May 16th, and ASMSA’s 2025 commencement ceremony is at 2:00pm on Saturday, May 17th.
May performances (all performances in the CIC): Music Capstone Recital (perfomance students), April 28th , 7:00pm; Music Capstone Recital (composition students), April 29th , 7:00pm; Film Capstone Screening, April 30th, 7:00pm; String Ensemble Concert, May 1st, 7:00pm; Choir Concert, May 4th, 3:00pm; Wind Ensemble Concert, May 6th, 7:00pm; Jazz Ensemble concert, May 9th, 7:00pm.
Online Academy Faculty Prep
On March 3rd, ASMSA officially announced the launch of our AP Online Academy, which will begin offering classes in August 2025. Our first cycle of courses will include AP English Language, AP US History, AP Precalculus, AP Computer Science, AP Foreign Language, and AP Seminar. Current faculty will teach in the Online Academy, in addition to their residential courses, and since March they have been preparing by building curricula, submitting courses for approval, and further refining the two-year sequence of courses. The ASMSA Admissions Department is reviewing interested students and families for the first-year pilot program. We hope to identify 8-12 students for the first Online Academy cohort. In addition to working with ASMSA faculty, Online Academy students will receive assistance and guidance from our academic support staff and our college counseling staff.
New Student Summer Orientation Sessions
On June 28th, ASMSA will host incoming Sophomores and Juniors for all-day orientation activities. From July 6th-18th, we will host some incoming Juniors for our Math Assessment Program (MAP) and CARC (College Algebra Readiness Camp). MAP/CARC is designed to assess Math experience and ability to ensure appropriate Math placement for new students, to accelerate learning, and to cover potential learning gaps. MAP/CARC is also a good opportunity for new Juniors to begin developing relationships with their peers before the Fall Semester begins. In addition to MAP/CARC, we will host all incoming Sophomores for Summer Splash from July 13th-18th. Sophomore Summer Splash will include academic sessions with ASMSA faculty and activities with our Academic Support Staff and Residential Life team.
Office of Student Life
May
2025 Quarterly Report
Rheo Morris, Ph.D., Dean of Students
The ASMSA office of Student Life has wrapped up prom under the theme Midnight Masquerade. We have also wrapped up SGA elections and are preparing for closing and graduation.
By the Numbers
● 112 students who have participated in mental health services since the beginning of the school year.
● Hosted 182 students for prom plus 17 Japanese student visitors.
● 5 outstanding rising Juniors have been chosen to take on the role of Admissions Delegates, a role that is usually reserved for rising seniors.
Student Leader Selection
Student Leaders have been selected for the 2025-2026 school year. Six rising seniors were selected for the Community Leader position with 12 in the Student Center and two in Selig Hall. There are 13 Peer Mentors, 10 Student Ambassadors and Admissions has chosen 26 students with 5 being rising juniors.
Mental Health Hub
The Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Master’s Social Worker have conducted 149 individual counseling sessions and 3 group therapy sessions and 2 crisis interventions for the month of February. They have conducted 135 individual therapy sessions, 3 group sessions, and crisis interventions in March. Overall, for the school year, they have conducted 1129 individual counseling sessions, 16 crisis interventions, and 12 group sessions. The number of students who have accessed mental health services this school year remained the same but there was an increase of individual therapy sessions. Conversely, there was a decrease in the number of crisis interventions.
Prom
ASMSA held its prom on April 26, in the Community and Innovation complex under the theme “Midnight Masquerade”. The prom court was named according to hall and classification with the winners voted on by the student body. The Prom ticket included a full buffet meal including appetizers and dessert and professional photos that will be shared with parents. Prom was followed by “after prom” until 2 am. There were video games, snacks, music, and a movie.
Programming
Responsible decision-making addressed social media etiquette and ethics. This topic explored using good judgement and polite behavior when posting on social media. It also discussed Cyberbullying, what it was, examples, and how to combat cyberbullying. It encouraged the students to examine their personal social action before posting and social media and remembering that they were responsible for their actions.
In March the staff placed some focus on celebrating women who we felt have contributed to Arkansas or the United States in some meaningful way. They also highlighted Arkansan and Hot Springs women such as Helen Selig who contributed to the Hot Springs community and ASMSA. There were bulletin boards that acknowledged the contributions of women in healthcare, politics, art, and STEM.
Staffing Changes
We have begun interviews to fill our vacant spots within the department. We have interviewed and are in the process of hiring a Residential Experience Coordinator who will begin in August. There are other interviews scheduled to fill another upcoming opening and an anticipated opening.
Staci Stich, our Licensed Professional, will retire at the end of this academic year. Staci was instrumental in creating our Mental Health hub as ASMSA’s first mental health counselor. Her hard work has been integral in reducing the stigma around mental health conversations in our youth. Besides affinity groups for our students (such as anxiety and depression), she does mobile assessments and is always available and visible to students. She has become so entrenched in our culture and community, that a student that has been referred to counseling is now referring to it as being “Stiched”.
Admissions and Outreach
May 2025 Quarterly Report
Jason Hudnell, Director of
Admissions
As the end of the academic year is approaching, we have reached the end of this year’s recruiting cycle. On Friday, April 25th 115 invitations were extended to bright and talented Arkansas students from all four corners of the state. This incoming cohort includes for the first time students being accepted into the new Music POD. This is an exciting launch as we continue to grow our Arts programs to stand alongside our already robust STEM programs of study.
By the Numbers
• 115 invitations sent to ASMSA candidates
• 141 candidates participated in 2025 Interview Days.
• 172 students participated in ASMA Outreach events this past quarter.
Admissions
The admissions process for the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts continues to reflect our commitment to identifying and nurturing the state’s most promising young minds. This year, more than 260 students began the journey to join ASMSA’s vibrant community of learning. Each application represented a unique story of talent, ambition, and academic potential.
Through a careful and comprehensive evaluation process, our admissions team reviewed academic records, essays, recommendations, and testing data to identify students who most align with the values and vision of our institution. After the initial review phase, 141 applicants were selected to participate in on-campus interviews as semi-finalists. These interviews offer a more personal opportunity to assess the intellectual curiosity, character, and community-minded spirit we seek in future students.
Following these thoughtful conversations and deliberations, ASMSA extended 115 invitations for admission to students from every corner of Arkansas. Each one of these students brings a distinct set of talents and perspectives that will enrich our campus and contribute to the legacy of excellence we strive to uphold.
We are especially proud to announce that this year marks a record in terms of sophomore admissions. Forty-six sophomores have been invited to join ASMSA this fall. This milestone reflects both increased awareness of early-entry options and confidence among families in the value of a longer residential experience at ASMSA. These sophomores, hailing from communities large and small across the state, are eager to begin their academic journey in an environment that challenges and supports them in equal measure.
As we look ahead, we are also thrilled to announce the launch of ASMSA’s new Music POD (Program of Distinction), which will officially begin in Fall 2025. This exciting initiative will allow musically talented students to pursue rigorous academic coursework while advancing their artistic talents in a uniquely supportive environment. The Music POD represents another
important step in ASMSA’s mission to expand opportunities for gifted students in a range of disciplines.
We remain energized by the talent of the incoming class and are deeply grateful for the continued support of ASMSA faculty, staff, administrations as well as the Board of Visitors as we seek to provide transformative educational experiences for Arkansas’s most gifted students.
Outreach
Field Trips to ASMSA
March 19th - 70 students from 4 districts, 6 TIP participants = 76 total Field Trips to Community
April 1st - 96 students from 6 districts (Guy Fenter)
Since March 1, Outreach partnered with faculty in Computer Science to host a field trip on campus with 76 students (4 districts + ASMSA-TIP). Outreach also partnered with Guy Fenter Co-Op to host a Field Trip in the Community for 96 students (6 districts).
In March, Outreach began recruiting in earnest for Summer@ASMSA 2025, and to date has over 180 applicants for 120 available seats. 5 visitors from Hanamaki Kita High School visited in early March and participated in campus activities as well as activities across the state, including touring Isbell Farms (England, AR) and Wegner Crystal Mine.
Campus Operations
May 2025 Quarterly Report
Phil Grace, Director, IT and Campus Operations
Campus Operations was focused this quarter on facility repairs, campus spring cleanup, finalizing the handoff of the hospital complex, and meeting the daily needs of ASMSA In addition, IT has been finalizing our enhancements for campus cybersecurity in response to the recent Baker Tilly audit.
By the Numbers
• 64 doors in 5 buildings were moved to our new Genea access control system.
• 3 new Zoom bars have been installed in conference rooms for the Zoom Rooms conferencing and scheduling system.
• IT has resolved 111 support tickets this quarter, and the maintenance and janitorial team received 155 emailed requests. This does not include in-person requests, special projects, or IT room setup for events.
• This quarter, ASMSA used approximately 202 terabytes of internet data and 513 terabytes of total network data.
Hospital Handoff
The city of Hot Springs finalized vacating maintenance building #2 on 4/23/25 by removing an antique firetruck. The woodshop area of the old hospital will be vacated between 4/28/255/2/25, and equipment will be moved to maintenance building # 2 for storage. The expected handoff date of the hospital to the City of Hot Springs is 5/5/25.
Maintenance and Facilities
Extreme cold temperatures at the end of winter caused an equipment failure with the Selig Hall chiller, resulting in full chiller replacement this quarter. The new chiller was installed with the addition of a glycol system, which should prevent a freezing failure in the future. Several strong storms in April revealed roof leaks in the Student Center and maintenance building #1. The repairs to the student center roof will require a boom lift, and we are awaiting quotes from local contractors for the repair. We anticipate repair of the Student Center roof will be completed in the upcoming quarter. With the arrival of spring, maintenance has been busy with grounds keeping around campus, including weeding flowerbeds, planting flowers, and mulching. Exterior lighting has also been upgraded in several areas around campus to improve security and enhance the nighttime visual aesthetic of campus.
Door Security and Access Control
This quarter, the IT department transitioned all campus doors with card access to a new vendor for control software. The new Genea system brings us into the 21st century for the management of our doors. New enhancements center around auditing changes to access levels, full integration with Microsoft Entra directory, and automation of the onboarding and offboarding for employees and students. We can now assign digital cards to mobile phones as an additional method for badging into managed doors, and this is currently in the testing phase. All of this was accomplished without purchasing new door controllers or hardware. Some older badge readers will be upgraded in upcoming quarters to provide further compatibility with mobile credentials.
Baker Tilly Audit
The IT department has nearly finished addressing the list of recommendations from the last cybersecurity audit. Some of the larger, more impactful items include an incident response plan, a vulnerability scanning system, and a change of vendors for our door access system. All recommendations will be addressed and documented before the summer 2025 review by Baker Tilly.
Human Resources
May 2025 Quarterly Report
Brandi Brazil, Director of Human Resources & Campus Culture
The ASMSA Office of Human Resources continues to advance recruitment efforts, host employee engagement events, and plan upcoming activities. Next steps include organizing professional development opportunities for Back-to-School Week. The office has also successfully completed the 2024 calendar year employee performance reviews.
By the Numbers
● Five academic positions recruited for FY25.
● Nine non-academic positions recruited for FY25.
● Two director-level positions recruited for FY25.
● System wide compliance training assignments are complete.
Recruitment
We have made significant progress in recruitment efforts since the last report. Director of Finance, Stephen Malec, was hired with a start date of March 1, 2025. Stephen joins us from within the UA System and brings a wealth of experience to the role. Purchasing/Travel Coordinator, Joey Masias, was hired with a start date of April 1, 2025. Joey also comes to us with prior experience within the UA System. Accounts Payable Specialist, Cody Tucker, is currently in the onboarding process, with an anticipated start date of May 12, 2025. We have received verbal acceptance for our Residential Experience Coordinator position. The start date is currently being finalized. Two exceptional candidates will be visiting campus this week for second-round interviews for the Japanese Language Instructor role. We anticipate extending an offer to one of them next week. Lastly, there is an opening for a Maintenance Worker. Recruitment efforts for this position are currently underway. We are pleased with the quality of candidates attracted to ASMSA and remain focused on identifying talented individuals to strengthen our campus community.
Campus Culture & Employee Engagement
We continue to prioritize fostering a positive and inclusive campus culture for both employees and students. We have relaunched our employee birthday celebrations with a fresh, new approach. In partnership with Terry Bryant from Dolphin Bay Café, we are now combining student and employee birthday recognitions into one monthly event. Dolphin Bay Café is generously providing free lunches to all students and employees with birthdays in April and May, along with personalized cupcakes to celebrate each individual. Planning is underway for our annual End of Year Play Day, scheduled for Thursday, May 22nd. This event promises a fun-filled day featuring food, trivia, the traditional Baggo tournament, music, ice cream, snocones, our General Assembly meeting, and more. It serves as a wonderful opportunity for community building and celebration as we close out the academic year. We are excited about these initiatives and remain committed to creating opportunities that strengthen employee engagement and campus spirit.
Performance Reviews
This spring, we completed 86 employee evaluations across all departments. Employees received an impressive average rating of 3.96 on a 5-point scale, reflecting strong overall performance and dedication to ASMSA’s mission. We are encouraged by the high level of professionalism, growth, and commitment demonstrated by our team. The evaluation results not only highlight individual and departmental strengths but also provide a strong foundation for continued professional development initiatives. The consistently positive performance outcomes reinforce ASMSA's reputation as a leading institution within the UA System attracting, retaining, and cultivating top-tier talent who are deeply invested in the success of our students and the school’s future.
Professional Development
The UA System implemented a system-wide compliance training program for all campuses. Compliance training modules were assigned to employees and have been completed. Courses assigned were Accommodating People with Disabilities, Child Abuse: Mandated Reporting, Title IX & Cleary Act, Active Shooter; Run, Hide, Fight, Discrimination and Harassment, Data Security and Privacy, and FERPA. The required training will be assigned to new hires and will renew for all employees based on requirements as needed.
Student Government Association
May 2025 Quarterly Report
Karilynn Arellano, SGA President
SGA had a competitive, busy, and productive past couple of months! To commence, SGA elections for e-board and senior representatives were held in the last three weeks of April. Then, school morale was lifted through Culture Fest, Dolphin Stock, and a special senior trip to Magic Springs. As this year comes to a close SGA is very proud of all its amazing accomplishments, and we look forward to seeing everything accomplished next year!
By the numbers
● This month SGA held E-Board elections. There were a total of 12 candidates who ran for E-Board.
● Senior Representative elections also took place with 9 candidates who ran.
● There were a total of 117 voters for round 1 elections, 104 for round 2 elections, and 52 for senior representative elections.
● SGA currently has $513 in its club fund.
E-Board and Senior Representative Elections
SGA Executive Board elections were a blast! First, there were round 1 elections: Round 1 voting opened on April 8th and results came out on April 12th as Grace Ann Conn was elected President, Nakoa Beattie Vice President, and Lisandro Ramos as Treasurer. The following week, Round 2 of e-board elections were held. Nathan Grady was named Parliamentarian, Kaiyan Yu as Secretary, and Miranda Lee as Publicist. Lastly, there were senior representative elections, and candidates gave speeches on April 22nd.
Culture Fest
Culture Fest was held Sunday, April 27th from 3:00-5:00 pm. This exciting event featured a variety of cultural clubs showcasing their heritage through food, crafts, games, and interactive activities. It was a great opportunity to explore and celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our ASMSA community.
Dolphin Stock
On May 3rd Student Interest and Wellness Committee will hold DolphinStock in the front courtyard. DolphinStock is a full day of fun where students can enjoy themselves and distress. There will be various activities including face painting, bracelet-making stations, club activities, tie-dye shirts, an open mic, and more! SGA looks forward to a full day of amazing activities for our students' well-being.
Senior Trip
On May 10th E-board will hold a senior trip! SGA has decided to take our seniors for a
a full day of fun at Magic Springs! There will be a total of 70 seniors attending. To attend Magic Springs SGA will be charging $30 to cover the cost of the tickets. Things like dinner however will be covered as SGA will be purchasing pizza with many different toppings for that day. Transportation is free and we will be making two trips with the school vans to take everyone to and back from Magic Springs. E-Board looks forward to seeing how fun the senior trip will be.