SRLC 2026 Program

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SOUTHERN REGION LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

JULY 19-21, 2026 HOT SPRINGS CONVENTION CENTER HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS

Hosted by:

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Program Contents Conference Notes....................................................................................................................................................... 2 Welcome Letters......................................................................................................................................................... 3 ASBA Board of Directors........................................................................................................................................... 7 Conference Schedule................................................................................................................................................. 8 Sponsors Recognition................................................................................................................................................. 12 Session Descriptions................................................................................................................................................... 13 Exhibitor Booth Assignments and Maps................................................................................................................ 21 Venue Map.................................................................................................................................................................... 25

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Welcome to the 2026 Southern Region Leadership Conference!

“Meeting the Moment: Strategic Leadership for Today’s Schools” On behalf of the Arkansas School Boards Association, we are honored to welcome school board members, superintendents, and district leaders from Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi for three days of learning, collaboration, and connection.

Hot Springs Convention Center Network: Hot Springs Wi-Fi Password: spacity2026

Scan the code or visit bit.ly/srlc26digital to access a digital, ‌full color version of this program!

This year's theme, Meeting the Moment: Strategic Leadership for Today's Schools, reflects the important work of leading public education through both opportunities and challenges. Throughout the conference, you will hear from engaging speakers, participate in practical breakout sessions, and exchange ideas with peers who share your commitment to strong governance and student success.

Whether you are a seasoned leader or new to your role, we hope you leave with fresh perspectives, valuable connections, and practical strategies you can put to work in your district.

Thank you for your dedication to public education and for investing in your growth as a leader. We hope you enjoy your time in Hot Springs and have a rewarding conference experience.

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Conference Notes Verification of Attendance and Training Credit Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi school board members may earn up to 11 hours of training credit for conference attendance. To receive credit, each attendee must have their NAME BADGE scanned at the end of each session. Staff and volunteers will be stationed by the doors to scan your name badge when the session ends.

Need Help?

Just ask one of ASBA’s staff members for assistance. They will be designated with blue “Staff” ribbons.

Name Badges Please always wear your name badge. It gives you access to sessions and special events and will be scanned for attendance verification throughout the conference.

Special Events Registration fees include all breakfasts, beverages, refreshment breaks, and lunch on Monday.

Exhibits Exhibits are located in the Hot Springs Convention Center Plaza and Grand Lobbies. Conference sessions have been planned to allow time for you to visit the exhibit hall, discover the latest products and services, and connect with board members, superintendents, and other school leaders from across the region. Please take the time to visit our exhibitors. Exhibitor booth assignments are listed on Pages 21-22, and the exhibitor floor map is on Page 23.

Electronic Devices Please silence all electronic devices while meetings are in session.

Concurrent Sessions If seating capacity is reached in a concurrent session, participants should choose an alternate session to attend.

Local Attractions Looking for fun things to do while in Hot Springs? Are you curious about the local dining scene?

HotSprings.org has all you need to know to make the most of your Spa City experience.

Scan the code below to check it out!

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Presidents’ Welcome

ASBA Welcome

Dear Southern Region School Board Association Leaders, Greetings!

On behalf of the Arkansas School Boards Association, it is with great excitement and heartfelt hospitality that we invite you to join us for the upcoming Southern Region Leadership Conference in the beautiful state of Arkansas.

There is something truly special about leaders from across the South coming together with a shared purpose—to learn from one another, strengthen our leadership, celebrate our successes, and prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. This conference is more than a meeting; it is an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, build new relationships, exchange innovative ideas, and return home inspired to continue the important work of serving our students, educators, and communities.

As leaders, we understand that our greatest strength comes from collaboration. "We are Better together."

Every state represented brings unique experiences, perspectives, and accomplishments that enrich our collective mission. Whether you are a seasoned board member, an association leader, or attending for the first time, your voice, your ideas, and your experiences will contribute to meaningful conversations that benefit the entire Southern Region.

While you're here, we hope you'll experience the warmth and genuine hospitality for which Arkansas is known. From our welcoming communities to our rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, we are confident you'll find Arkansas to be a place where lasting memories are made and meaningful connections flourish.

Throughout the conference, you can look forward to engaging keynote speakers, informative educational sessions, collaborative discussions, and networking opportunities designed to equip and encourage educational leaders. Together, we will explore innovative practices, celebrate excellence in governance, and reaffirm our shared commitment to providing the very best educational opportunities for every student we serve.

Most importantly, we hope this conference reminds each of us that none of us leads alone. The relationships built through the Southern Region continue to strengthen our associations, our boards, and our schools long after the conference concludes. We are excited to welcome both longtime friends and first-time attendees as we continue this tradition of learning, leadership, and fellowship.

We sincerely hope your association will make plans to join us in Arkansas for what promises to be an inspiring and memorable conference. Your presence will help make this gathering even more meaningful, and we look forward to welcoming you with open arms.

Thank you for your dedication to public education and for the countless hours you invest in serving your schools and communities. We are honored to host this year's Southern Region Leadership Conference and cannot wait to share this experience with each of you.

Safe travels, and we'll see you in Arkansas!

Doris Parham President, Arkansas School Boards Association President, Bearden School District Board of Education 3

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Presidents’ Welcome

LSBA Welcome

On behalf of the Louisiana School Boards Association, it is my honor to welcome each of you — dedicated school board members, educational leaders, and advocates for student success — to this year’s Southern Region Leadership Conference. Your commitment to education and public service continues to shape the future of our schools, communities, and most importantly, our children.

As we gather this year, I’m reminded of our 2026 theme in Louisiana – Leaving a Legacy - as a significant number of our elected school board members are completing their final term of service.

Leaving a legacy is so much more than the number of years these individuals have served. It’s a direct result of the progress in our school districts that’s happened with careful thought and meaningful effort. It’s something that is measured not only by today’s decisions, but by the lasting impact on future generations. Every policy, every conversation, and every act of service contribute to a foundation that empowers students, supports educators, and strengthens our communities.

This conference provides an opportunity to collaborate, learn, and inspire one another as we continue the important work of educational excellence. It’s my hope that the knowledge shared, the partnerships formed, and the vision renewed over these next few days encourage all of us to lead with purpose and leave a legacy defined by integrity, innovation, and opportunity for every student.

Sincerely, Taft Kleinpeter President, Louisiana School Boards Association Member, Ascension Parish School Board

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Presidents’ Welcome

MSBA Welcome

On behalf of the Mississippi School Boards Association (MSBA), the MSBA Board of Directors, and the school boards we proudly represent across our state, welcome to the 2026 Southern Region Leadership Conference.

It is an honor to join our colleagues from Arkansas and Louisiana for this outstanding regional gathering dedicated to strengthening public education through effective governance and leadership.

The partnerships we share across state lines remind us that while our laws, policies, and communities may differ, our commitment remains the same—to provide every student with the opportunity to succeed.

This year's theme, Meeting the Moment: Strategic Leadership for Today's Schools, captures the responsibility entrusted to every school board member and educational leader. Public education continues to evolve in response to changing student needs, workforce expectations, technological advances, fiscal challenges, and increasing public expectations.

Meeting this moment requires leaders who are informed, collaborative, forward-thinking, and committed to governing with integrity and purpose.

Strong governance has never been more important. School boards establish the vision, adopt sound policies, steward public resources, and ensure accountability while empowering superintendents and educators to focus on teaching and learning. One of the greatest strengths of this conference is the opportunity to learn from one another. The innovative ideas, practical strategies, and professional relationships developed during these three days will continue to benefit our schools long after we return home. By sharing experiences and exploring solutions together, we strengthen not only our individual districts but public education throughout our region.

I encourage you to take full advantage of every session, engage with fellow participants, visit our exhibitors, and build new connections with leaders who share your dedication to serving students and communities. Whether you are an experienced board member or attending your first regional conference, I am confident you will leave inspired, better informed, and equipped with new ideas to strengthen your leadership.

Thank you to the Arkansas School Boards Association for hosting this year's conference and for your hospitality. We also extend our appreciation to the Louisiana School Boards Association, our conference sponsors, exhibitors, presenters, volunteers, and everyone whose efforts have made this event possible.

Thank you for your service to public education and for your unwavering commitment to the students, families, and communities we are privileged to serve.

I wish you a rewarding conference and safe travels home.

Sincerely, Sondra Odom President, Mississippi School Boards Association President, Pearl Public School District School Board 5

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Executive Director’s Welcome

Executive Director’s Welcome

On behalf of the Arkansas School Boards Association, it is my pleasure to welcome school board members, education leaders, and guests from Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and across the Southern Region to beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas. We are honored to serve as your host and are grateful that you have joined us for this outstanding opportunity to learn, collaborate, and connect with fellow leaders who share a commitment to public education.

This conference is designed to provide meaningful professional development, practical resources, and thought-provoking discussions that will strengthen your leadership and support the important work you do in your local communities.

Throughout the conference, you will hear from knowledgeable speakers, participate in engaging sessions, and exchange ideas with colleagues who face many of the same opportunities and challenges. We hope you leave with new perspectives, valuable strategies, and lasting connections that will continue to benefit your schools and students.

While you are here, we encourage you to experience all that Hot Springs has to offer. From its historic downtown and iconic bathhouses to its unique shops, local restaurants, and scenic beauty, we hope you find time to enjoy the hospitality and charm that make this city such a special destination.

One of the greatest strengths of the Southern Region Leadership Conference is the opportunity to build relationships. Take time to meet new colleagues, reconnect with friends, share experiences, and learn from one another. The conversations and partnerships formed during this conference often become valuable resources long after the event has ended.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to our conference sponsors, presenters, volunteers, and planning committee. Their dedication, expertise, and generous support have made this conference possible, and we are grateful for their commitment to serving school board leaders throughout our region.

Thank you for being part of the Southern Region Leadership Conference. We hope your time in Hot Springs is both rewarding and enjoyable, and that you return home inspired, informed, and equipped to continue making a positive difference for the students, educators, and communities you serve.

Welcome, and have a wonderful conference!

Shannon Moore Executive Director, Arkansas School Boards Association 6

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ASBA Board of Directors OFFICERS OF THE BOARD

Doris Parham President

Nikki King President-Elect

Travis Warren Vice President

Joe Sheppard Secretary-Treasurer

Jeff Lisenbey Past President

REGIONAL DIRECTORS

Suzanne Spivey Region 1

Jason Jones Region 2

Todd Reed Region 3

Beth Ullrich Region 4

John Gibson Region 5

Keith Baker Region 6

Shane Bell Region 7

Graham Peterson Region 8

Donna Dunlap Region 9

Dino Lenox Region 10

Buddy Puckett Region 11

Elizabeth Walker Region 12

Renee Skinner Region 13

Debra Barnes Region 14

Clint Hull At-Large 7

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Conference Schedule Sunday, July 19 (Early Bird) 2.0 maximum training hours

12:00 – 5:00 Registration, Plaza Lobby 10:30 – 12:30 Exhibitor Set-Up, Plaza Lobby 1:00 – 5:00 Exhibits Open, Plaza Lobby 3:00 – 5:00 Early Bird Sessions (See Page 13 for Session Descriptions) Session A - Signals & Shifts: Leading Through the Trends That Matter Room 208 Presenter: Dr. Denotris Jackson, MSBA Executive Director Session B - Meeting the Moment: Governance in Action Room 209 Presenters: Lucas Harder & Tammie Reitenger 5:00 Adjournment 5:00 – 7:00 Exhibitor Set-Up, Grand Lobby 5:00 – 9:30 Hospitality Event: Dinner at Crystal Ridge Distillery Sponsored by American Fidelity, Centegix, and TIPS

Monday, July 20

6.0 maximum training hours 7:00 – 5:00 Registration, Plaza Lobby 7:00 – 5:00 Exhibits Open, Plaza Lobby & Grand Lobby 7:00 – 8:15 Full Buffet Breakfast, Horner Hall 8:15 – 10:00 Opening Ceremonies & Keynote Speaker, Horner Hall Welcome / Conference Overview: Doris Parham, ASBA President Invocation: Etta Taplin, MSBA Vice President Presentation of Colors: Jacksonville AFJROTC Pledge of Allegiance: Taft Kleinpeter, LSBA President National Anthem: Annslee Young, Sheridan High School Opening Remarks: Shannon Moore, ASBA Executive Director Keynote: Rex Nelson, “From State of Disaster to State of Excellence” 10:00 – 10:30 Refreshment Break, Grand Lobby

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Conference Schedule Monday, July 20 continued 6.0 maximum training hours

10:30 – 11:30 Concurrent Session 1 (See Pages 15-16 for Session Descriptions) Rooms 203 - 204

Rooms 201 - 202 Room 208

Room 207 Room 209 Rooms 102 - 103

Disagreement within the Board: What Data Reveals and How Board Members Can Lead Through It Presenters: Dr. Matthew White & Dr. Rick Gales The Multi-Hat Leader: Navigating the Realities of Modern School Administration Presenter: Dr. Tyler Broyles Governing with Clarity: Strengthening Transparency, Accountability, and DecisionMaking in School Boards Presenters: Mark Willis, Dr. Dennis Coe, & Charlie Rigby More than Maintenance: Financial Leadership for School Facilities Presenter: Jerrod Williams Managing Chaos: Redefining the Role of Today's School Board Member Presenter: George Cotton, Sr. Building and Supporting SRO Units in Today's Environment Presenter: Lt. Jordan Kelley

11:30 – 1:00 Lunch, Horner Hall - NAME TAG REQUIRED 1:00 – 2:00 Concurrent Session 2 (See Pages 17-18 for Session Descriptions) Rooms 203 - 204 Rooms 201 - 202 Room 208 Room 207 Room 209

Opening the Door to Effective Leadership: Keys to Good Governance Presenters: Dr. Janet Pope and LSBA Board of Directors Executive Committee The Power of 10 Presenter: Eric Foister Youth Violence and Conflict Resolution Presenters: Immanuel Israel, Gedaliah Israel, and Facilitator Tramane Walter Strategic Governance in a Reactive World Presenters: Dr. Rochelle Redus, Dr. Gregory Pilewski, & Mike Poore The First Amendment in Today's Schools: Navigating Today's Legal Landscape Presenter: Jay Bequette

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Conference Schedule Monday, July 20 continued

6.0 maximum training hours 2:00 – 2:30 Refreshment Break, Grand Lobby 2:30 – 3:30 Concurrent Session 3 (See Page 19 for Session Descriptions) Rooms 203 - 204 Rethinking How We Use Paraeducators to Support Reading Interventions for K-1 Presenters: Dr. Lisa Fussell and Tangipahoa Parish School District Board Members Rooms 201 - 202 Building Culture, Academic Systems, and Accountability Across the District Presenter: Doug Smith Room 208 Strength in Schools, Success in Children - Transitioning to Neighborhood Schools Presenters: Shane Patrick, Chris Whorton, Heath Nance, Aric Bergthold, Mary Ann Spears, & Jason Carter Room 209 The First Amendment in Today's Schools: Navigating Today's Legal Landscape Presenter: Jay Bequette Rooms 102 - 103 Building and Supporting SRO Units in Today's Environment Presenters: Lt. Jordan Kelley

Tuesday, July 21

3.0 maximum training hours 7:00 – 11:00 Exhibits Open, Plaza Lobby 7:00 – 8:15 Full Buffet Breakfast, Horner Hall 8:15 – 8:30 Performance by Bryant High School Hornet Band 8:30 – 11:00 Closing General Session: The Voices That Matter, Horner Hall The Future Starts Here: Student Voices (Panel) Panel Members: Student Leaders from Arkansas High Schools Leading the Moment: A Superintendent’s Perspective Presenter: Denny Rozenberg, Bearden School District Superintendent Meeting the Moment: Leading Through Hard Decisions with Clarity and Unity Presenter: Dr. Rochelle Redus, North Little Rock Board of Education President 11:00 Closing Comments / Adjournment

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Sponsors Recognition Thank you to our sponsoring partners for your generous support!

Be sure to visit them in the Plaza and Grand Lobbies.

Exhibitor booth assignments are listed on Pages 21-22, and the exhibitor floor map is on Page 23.

Platinum Partners We provide individualized benefits education to help ensure employees only select the benefits they really need and can use. With 60 years working alongside education professionals, we’re committed to your profession and employees’ well-being.

Developed by the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA), our board management software, Simbli, helps boards automate and simplify everyday tasks through software that facilitates paperless meetings, strategic planning, policy management, board evaluations, document management, and communications. Simbli is affordable, super easy to use, incredibly secure, and accessible on any device with an internet connection.

Silver Partners

Bronze Partners

No Limits Photography

Exhibiting Partners 21 CJS Janitorial Services ABM Education Services Baldwin & Shell Clark Contractors Danmark Technologies

Educational Benefits (EBI) HES Facilities Management Modus Studio Nabholz / Entegrity National Association of School Resource Officers

P.I. Roofing SOPA The Kirkland Group TIPS ValuTeachers 12

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Early Bird Session Descriptions Sunday, July 19 - Early Bird Sessions, 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

(Choose one session to attend.)

Session A, Room 208 Signals & Shifts: Leading Through the Trends That Matter What School Boards Must Understand About Education and Society in Transition Presenter: Dr. Denotris Jackson, MSBA Executive Director This interactive session helps school board members identify and respond to major education and societal trends shaping the future of public schools.

From student mental health and declining enrollment to technology integration and workforce alignmen, participants will explore how these trends affect district operations, student success, staffing, facilities, and community expectations.

Session B, Room 209 Meeting the Moment: Governance in Action Facilitators: Lucas Harder, ASBA Policy Service Director and Staff Attorney, & Tammie Reitenger, ASBA Deputy Executive Director / Board Development Director School board leadership is filled with moments that require sound judgment, thoughtful leadership, and a clear understanding of the board's role. In this interactive Early Bird session, participants will work together to navigate realistic governance scenarios involving legal issues, community expectations, superintendent relationships, social media, and board decisionmaking. This tabletop experience encourages discussion, collaboration, and problem-solving as teams rotate through a series of timely scenarios.

Participants will leave with fresh perspectives, actionable strategies, and greater confidence to lead effectively when the next "moment" arrives.

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General Session Descriptions Monday, July 20 - Keynote Session From State of Disaster to State of Excellence 8:30 - 10:00 a.m., Horner Hall Presenter: Rex Nelson Rex Nelson will guide attendees through the history of our region, connecting past events to present-day realities and future opportunities.

His message will highlight the critical role of education and the influence of school board leadership in shaping strong communities—challenging participants to lead their districts toward excellence.

Tuesday, July 21 - Closing General Session The Voices That Matter: Students, Schools, and Boards 8:30 - 11:00 a.m., Horner Hall The Future Starts Here: Student Voices (Panel) Panel Members: Student Leaders from Arkansas High Schools Hear directly from outstanding student leaders representing school districts across Central Arkansas as they share their experiences, aspirations, and perspectives on today's public schools. Through engaging moderated conversation, panelists will discuss what schools are doing well, the challenges students face, and how school boards and educational leaders can continue creating opportunities for student success. This session offers a valuable reminder that every decision made in the boardroom ultimately impacts the students we serve.

Leading the Moment: A Superintendent’s Perspective Presenter: Denny Rozenberg, Bearden School District Superintendent As the leader responsible for turning vision into action, Superintendent Denny Rozenberg shares the realities, opportunities, and responsibilities of leading a public school district in today's educational landscape. Building on the voices of students, this session will challenge attendees to consider how strategic leadership, strong governance, and a shared commitment to students can move schools forward and inspire meaningful change.

Meeting the Moment: Leading Through Hard Decisions with Clarity and Unity Presenter: Dr. Rochelle Redus, North Little Rock Board of Education President In this session, Dr. Redus will share lessons learned through educational leadership and governance, offering practical strategies for navigating difficult decisions while fostering transparency, collaboration, and unity among stakeholders.

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Concurrent Session Descriptions Monday, July 20 - Concurrent Session 1, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Disagreement within the Board: What Data Reveals and How Board Members Can Lead Through It. Presenters: Dr. Matthew White, Assistant Professor, & Dr. Rick Gales, K-12 Leadership Preparation Professor Organization: University of Central Arkansas Rooms 203 - 204 In today’s complex and often polarized educational landscape, school boards are increasingly called to make high-stakes decisions under pressure, making how boards navigate disagreement more important than ever. This session draws on Arkansas data examining school board voting patterns, including split votes, failed motions, and the issues most likely to produce division. Grounded in real-world practice, the session then moves beyond the data to focus on what effective board members can do in the moment. Attendees will leave with practical, actionable strategies to lead through disagreement in ways that strengthen governance, improve decision quality, and keep student success at the center.

The Multi-Hat Leader: Navigating the Realities of Modern School Administration Presenter: Dr. Tyler Broyles, Superintendent, Gentry School District (AR) Rooms 201 - 202 Today's school leaders face a rapidly changing landscape shaped by evolving legal requirements, increased school choice options, heightened public expectations, and ongoing workforce challenges. This session explores practical strategies for leading schools in the modern era, including navigating legal and compliance issues, strengthening communication, managing people effectively, and using marketing and storytelling to showcase what makes your district unique.

Participants will learn how to proactively tell their school's story, build trust with stakeholders, attract and retain students and staff, and position their district for success in an increasingly competitive educational environment.

Governing with Clarity: Strengthening Transparency, Accountability, and Decision-Making in School Boards Presenters: Mark Willis, Assistant Executive Director of GSBA and COO of eBOARDsolutions, Dr. Dennis Coe, Account Executive, & Charlie Rigby, Business Development Manager Organization: Simbli by eBOARDsolutions Room 208 Effective school board governance requires more than well-run meetings—it demands clear processes, transparent communication, and strong alignment to district priorities. In this session, board members will explore practical approaches to improving governance through structured workflows, better access to information, and intentional use of technology. Rather than focusing on tools, this session highlights how boards can reduce risk, improve public trust, and make more informed decisions in today’s complex environment.

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Concurrent Session Descriptions Monday, July 20 - Concurrent Session 1, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

More than Maintenance: Financial Leadership for School Facilities Presenter: Jerrod Williams, ASBA Finance Consultant Room 207 School facilities represent one of a district's largest investments, and school boards play a critical role in ensuring those assets are maintained for current and future generations of students. This session will explore the financial side of facilities management, including long-term maintenance planning, capital improvement strategies, budgeting for repairs and replacements, and making informed decisions that maximize taxpayer investments. Participants will gain practical insights into balancing immediate needs with long-term financial sustainability while fulfilling their governance responsibilities.

Managing Chaos: Redefining The Role of Today's School Board Member Presenter: George Cotton, Sr., School Board Chairman, Delta Preparatory Schools (AR) Room 209 In today's rapidly changing educational environment, school board members are often challenged to manage personal and political preferences as they ponder the greater good of the educational community. As politics and outside interests collide, the role of the school board member is often at odds with the reality and responsibility of the role: School board members are curators of educational advancement and student opportunity. However, in a climate of rapid communication and immediate gratification, the role of the modern school member has become complex, challenging, and at times, chaotic. This interactive learning session is designed to provide school board members with strategies that just might help them manage their roles as educational policy makers.

Building and Supporting SRO Units in Today's Environment.

Presenter: Lt. Jordan Kelley Organization: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Rooms 102 - 103 As schools continue to face evolving safety challenges, strong School Resource Officer (SRO) programs are more important than ever. Join Lt. Jordan Kelley, NASRO Region 6 Director and instructor, as he shares best practices for developing and sustaining high-quality SRO units that protect, educate, and build positive relationships with students, staff, and the community.

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Concurrent Session Descriptions Monday, July 20 - Concurrent Session 2, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Opening the Door to Effective Leadership: Keys to Good Governance Presenters: Dr. Janet Pope, LSBA Executive Director, Taft Kleinpeter, LSBA President, Debra Schum, LSBA President-Elect, Brandon Harrell, LSBA Vice President, Dr. Katherine Lemoine, LSBA Immediate Past President Organization: Louisiana School Boards Association Rooms 203 - 204 The LSBA Board of Directors knew that it was time for our association to rebrand itself and really focus on what “Good Governance” is all about. In leading today’s and tomorrow’s school board members and superintendents, understanding their roles and responsibilities are key in increasing better student outcomes. The LSBA Team and the LSBA Board of Directors did a deep dive into what today’s standards and best practices are for school board members and superintendents. We aligned that work to LSBA’s Mission: Leadership, Service and Support for School Boards. The LSBA developed its’ rebranding standards/best practices into the “Keys to Good Governance.” Attendees will learn what governance is/is not and how it takes the governance leadership team, that is comprised of school board members and the superintendent, to understand the importance of an established framework to keep everyone focused on “THE KEYS.” Participants will also gain an understanding that when there is a clear road map that provides an understanding of how to achieve set goals, it is a WIN-WIN for ALL educational stakeholders!

The Power of 10 Presenter: Eric Foister, Superintendent Organization: West Memphis School District (AR) Rooms 201 - 202 How an underperforming Arkansas school district of 4,300 K-12 students used strategic branding, reduced variability, and robust instructional accountability structures to build teacher collective efficacy—ultimately boosting district-wide proficiency rates by 10% in both Math and ELA on state assessments in just one year. This will give a blueprint as well as feedback on what we would have done differently and provide examples for both board members and education Leaders on best and worst practices.

Youth Violence and Conflict Resolution Presenters: Immanuel Israel, Gedaliah Israel, and Facilitator Tramane Walter Organization: Youth Violence Conflict Resolution Seminar (YVCRS) Room 208 The Youth Violence Conflict Resolution Seminar is a community focused initiative dedicated to helping young people overcome challenges associated with violence and conflict. As schools across the nation continue to face challenges related to student conflict, bullying, gang involvement, and community violence, YVCRS offers a proactive approach focused on prevention, education, and empowerment.

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Concurrent Session Descriptions Monday, July 20 - Concurrent Session 2, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Strategic Governance in a Reactive World Presenters: Dr. Rochelle Redus, Board President, & Dr. Gregory Pilewski, Superintendent, North Little Rock School District; Mike Poore, Former Superintendent of Little Rock School District and current Executive VP of Education Partners Room 207 The current culture and political landscape often creates challenges to school district culture, impacting trust and belief in a school system with challenges that occur daily in school systems. This session will share strategies on how to navigate these challenges and elevate strategic thinking and planning to keep the focus on a school board's priorities.

The First Amendment in Today's Schools: Navigating Today's Legal Landscape Presenter: Jay Bequette, Attorney, Bequette, Billingley & Kees P.A. Room 209 The First Amendment continues to shape some of the most challenging issues facing public schools today. From religious expression and the Ten Commandments litigation in Arkansas and Louisiana to employee speech and other emerging legal disputes, school boards are increasingly called upon to make decisions with significant constitutional implications. This session will examine recent court cases and national trends, explain what they mean for local school districts, and provide practical guidance to help board members and school leaders navigate these complex issues while fulfilling their governance responsibilities.

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Concurrent Session Descriptions Monday, July 20 - Concurrent Session 3, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Rethinking How We Use Paraeducators to Support Reading Interventions for K-1 Presenters: Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lisa Fussell and Board Members Organization: Tangipahoa Parish School District (LA) Rooms 203 - 204 Between August 2025 and December 2025 (4 months), our kindergarten students demonstrated a 28% increase in reading proficiency! School systems will hear how we implemented the ONCE program from the ground up for all kindergarten students in our district, including how we recruited and celebrated our Once instructors to build buy-in.

Building Culture, Academic Systems, and Accountability Across the District Presenter: Doug Smith, Superintendent, Smackover-Norphlet School District (AR) Rooms 201 - 202 In this session, the audience will receive a systematic approach to leadership and building culture district-wide. They will also see actual systems used in our district that are practical and easily used in any district. Those systems will include developing 30-60-90 day plans for each level of your district. We will have an exact blueprint of the expectations, areas for growth, additional goals, documents that demonstrate mastery, and completion of tasks. Every 30 days, we will meet review, revise, and continue to grow as an academic team. Clear roles and responsibilities are defined, expectations are set, and clarity is ensured before we move forward. This plan allows our schools to have a clear road map of how their school year will go and takes stress off building level admin, because it provides clarity to all teams and staff on what the expectations and targets are.

Strength in Schools, Success in Children - Transitioning to Neighborhood Schools Presenters: Shane Patrick, Superintendent, & Board Members Chris Whorton, Heath Nance, Aric Bergthold, Mary Ann Spears, and Jason Carter, Siloam Springs School District (AR) Room 208 This session is focused on collaborative change to meet the needs of a school district. Districts must constantly assess the needs of the district based on the current situation. When change is necessary, it is imperative to do it in a collaborative environment that includes all of your stakeholders. The Siloam Springs School District is undergoing a transition from grade specific schools to a neighborhood school model. Leaders will share the importance of being collaborative with parents, community and staff for a successful change process.

The First Amendment in Today's Schools: Navigating Today's Legal Landscape Presenter: Jay Bequette, Attorney, Bequette, Billingley & Kees P.A. Room 209 The First Amendment continues to shape some of the most challenging issues facing public schools today. From religious expression and the Ten Commandments litigation in Arkansas and Louisiana to employee speech and other emerging legal disputes, school boards are increasingly called upon to make decisions with significant constitutional implications. This session will examine recent court cases and national trends, explain what they mean for local school districts, and provide practical guidance to help board members and school leaders navigate these complex issues while fulfilling their governance responsibilities.

Building and Supporting SRO Units in Today's Environment.

Presenter: Lt. Jordan Kelley Organization: National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) Rooms 102 - 103 As schools continue to face evolving safety challenges, strong School Resource Officer (SRO) programs are more important than ever. Join Lt. Jordan Kelley, NASRO Region 6 Director and instructor, as he shares best practices for developing and sustaining high-quality SRO units that protect, educate, and build positive relationships with students, staff, and the community.

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Danger zone test

Danger zone test

MEETING THE

Moment

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP FOR TODAY’S SCHOOLS

2026 SOUTHERN REGION LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Exhibitor Booth Assignments Platinum and Silver Partners (Located in the Plaza Lobby) Booth P1

Greene Education Services, LLC Windell Greene wgreene@greeneeducation.com

Booth P2

Centegix Ron Self info@centegix.com

Booth P3

Simbli by eBOARDSolutions Amelia Libman alibman@eboardsolutions.com

Booth P4

American Fidelity Kim Wilson lisa.boone@americanfidelity.com

Booth P5

SFE - Southwest Foodservice Excellence Hannah Chochrek hannah.chochrek@sfellc.org

Be sure to capture your conference memories at the SRLC photo booth, sponsored by SFE, Centegix, & Greene Education Services!

Bronze and Exhibiting Partners (Located in the Grand Lobby) Booth G1

Kids First Education Sue Anne Boatman sueanneboatman@kidsfirst.llc

Booth G2

Danmark Technologies Charlotte Daves charlotte@danmarktech.com

Booth G3

21 CJS Janitorial Services Maritza Rosas maritza@21cjs.com

Booth G4

The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) Stacey McPherson stacey.mcpherson@tips-usa.com

Booth G5

Educational Benefits (EBI) Kylie Freyaldenhoven kylie.freyaldenhoven@ebiteam.com

Booth G6

ABM Education Services, LLC Clark Brady clark.brady@abm.com

Booth G7

SOPA, Inc. Teresa Snook tsnook@sopainc.com

Booth G8

The Kirkland Group Stephanie Walker sales2@kirklandgroup.org

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Danger zone test

MEETING THE

Moment

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP FOR TODAY’S SCHOOLS

2026 SOUTHERN REGION LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Exhibitor Booth Assignments Bronze and Exhibiting Partners (Located in the Grand Lobby) Booth G9

Clark Contractors Cecile Cotner ccotner@clarkcontractors.net

Booth G10

National Association of School Resource Officers SRO Lt. Jordan Kelley jwkelley@cherokeek12.org

Booth G11

P.I. Roofing Joel Johnson joel.johnson@piroofing.com

Booth G12

Nabholz | Entegrity Morgan Horton morgan.horton@nabholz.com

Booth G13

HES Facilities Management Susanna Hoskins susanna.hoskins@hes.com

Booth G14

Baldwin & Shell Construction Company Kevin Yarberry kyarberry@baldwinshell.com

Booth G15

ValuTeachers Hayden Beck hayden@vtnmo.com

Booth G16

Modus Studio, PLLC Jamie Gottlieb jamie@modusstudio.com

Booth G17

NoLimits Photography Todd Frazior info@nolimitsphotography.com

Thank you to our refreshment break sponsors, Kids First Education and NoLimits Photography!

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Danger zone test

MEETING THE

Moment

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP FOR TODAY’S SCHOOLS

2026 SOUTHERN REGION LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Exhibitor Booth Maps

Plaza Lobby

Grand Lobby

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On behalf of the Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi School Boards Assocations,

for attending, and thank you for your service to public education! We look forward to seeing you in beautiful Biloxi, Mississippi in July 2027!

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Danger zone test

MEETING THE

Moment

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP FOR TODAY’S SCHOOLS

2026 SOUTHERN REGION LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Venue Map

Hot Springs Convention Center

Southern Region Leadership Conference Meeting Areas

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