Awards

Joel Dean

2025 TEL-AR Technology Director of the Year

Joel Dean, Technology Coordinator for the Conway Public School District, was recently named the 2025 Technology Education Leaders of Arkansas (TEL-AR) Technology Director of the Year. This award is sponsored by American Fidelity. Mike Mertens, AAEA Assistant Executive Director; B.J. Burgess, TEL-AR President; and Kim Wilson, American Fidelity, presented Mr. Dean with the award at his school district on December 10, 2024.

Crystal Carranco

2025 AAESP Assistant Principal of the Year

Crystal Carranco, Assistant Principal at Stagecoach Elementary School in the Cabot School District, was recently named the 2025 Arkansas Association of Elementary School Principals (AAESP) Assistant Principal of the Year. This award is sponsored by Curriculum Associates. Lenett Thrasher, AAEA Assistant Executive Director; Dr. Tony Thurman, Superintendent, Cabot School District; Mr. Michael Byrd, Deputy Superintendent, Cabot School District; Carol Skiba, Principal, Stagecoach Elementary; and Alice Shirey, Curriculum Associates, presented Mrs. Carranco with the award at her school on December 12, 2024.