The Administrator Newsletter - June 2023

Dr. Hernandez welcomes the summer break and new superintendents.

Executive Viewpoint Page 3

THANKS

Brian Kirkendoll expresses gratitude for his time serving as AAEA President.

President’s Perspective Page 4

ADMINISTRATOR SPOTLIGHT: W.T.

“DUSTY” DUNCAN

In the Spotlight this month is Dusty Duncan, Assistant Superintendent at Marion School District.

AAEA Staff

2023 Calendar of Events

June

AAEA School Law Conference, June 6, 2023

m.hernandez@theaaea.org

Mike

m.mertens@theaaea.org

l.thrasher@theaaea.org

s.chuculate@theaaea.org

s.shamburger@theaaea.org

m.smith@theaaea.org

a.mattox@theaaea.org

Jacksonville School District

AASEA Summer Conference, June 12-13, 2023

Benton Event Center

July

CASBO Certification Classes, July 6-7, 2023

Benton Event Center

CFD Certification Classes, July 20, 2023

Powers of Arkansas, North Little Rock

AAEA Summer Conference, July 24-26, 2023

Marriott Hotel and Statehouse Convention Center, Little Rock

September

AAFC Fall Conference, September 20-22, 2023

Hot Springs Convention Center

ArkASPA HR Bootcamp, September 26, 2023

Wyndham Riverfront, North Little Rock

October

ASPMA Conference, October 2-4, 2023

Hot Springs Convention Center

AAEA Fall Conference, October 10, 2023

Benton Event Center

CASBO Certification Classes, October 24-25, 2023

Four Points by Sheraton, Little Rock

November

AACTEA Conference, November 9, 2023

Delta Marriott, Little Rock

For more information, visit theaaea.org/events or see Page 9.

Dr. Mike Hernandez Executive Director

Mertens Assistant Executive Director

Lenett Thrasher Director of Learning Services & Operations

Sharon Chuculate Fiscal Services Coordinator

Sarah Shamburger Business Manager

Marty Smith Member Relations Manager

Alyse Mattox Communications & Technology Specialist

Melanie Thrasher Business Analyst m.thrasher@theaaea.org

2022-2023 AAEA Board of Directors

Brian Kirkendoll

AAEA President Principal, Alma

Skipper Ward

AASA President Superintendent, Magnolia

Shawn Rose

AAESP President-Elect Principal, Hillcrest

Scott Smith

AASSP Past President Principal, Western Yell County

Melody Crane

AASBO President Business Manager/District Treasurer, Hector

MonicaAAGEASpringfield President Gifted and Talented Specialist, Ozark Unlimited Resource ESC

Dr. Karla Neathery AAEA President-Elect Superintendent, Sheridan

Dr. Andrea Martin AASA President-Elect Superintendent, Greenland

Mark Lewis AAESP Past President Principal, Conway

Dr. Karen Lasker ArkASPA President Director of Personnel, Conway

Kevin Luck AASBO Past President Business Manager, Vilonia

J.D. AAMLAKeelingPresident Principal, Dardanelle

Jarod Morrison Tel-AR President Director of Maintenance/ Technology, Farmington

Stacy DeFoor AAEA Board Secretary Assistant Superintendent, Benton

Kelvin Gragg AASA Secretary AssistantPineSuperintendent, Bluff

Matt Ziegler

AASSP President Principal, Riverside

Lisa AACTEAHotsenpiller President Career & Technical Administrator/Supervisor, Fayetteville

Carla Curtis AASEA President Director of Special Services, Fayetteville

Aliza Jones ASPMA President (until Oct) Facilities Consortium Coordinator, Lavaca

Dr. Mike Hernandez AAEA Executive Director

Dr. Stephanie Nehus AAEA Past President Superintendent, Hot Springs

Carol Skiba

AAESP President Principal, Cabot

Dr. Karla Tarkington AASSP President-Elect Principal, Beebe

Julie Adams AAFC President Federal Programs Coordinator, DeWitt

Dr. Steven Weber AACIA President Assistant Superintendent, Fayetteville

Craig Dupuy ASPMA President (begin Oct) Superintendent, Cleveland County

2022-2023 AAEA Corporate Sponsors

Prestigious American Fidelity Assurance Co.

Cognia

Coryell Roofing and Construction, Inc.

Curriculum Associates

Educational Benefits, Inc.

GoSchoolBox

Lifetouch National School Studios, Inc.

NIET - National Institute for Excellence in Teaching

Performance Services

Pro Benefits Group, Inc.

Renaissance Learning, Inc.

Solution Tree, Inc.

Distinguished Apptegy

Capturing Kids’ Hearts

Lexia Learning

Pearson Virtual Schools

Diamond Arkansas Public Safety Solutions Baldwin & Shell ClassWallet

Diamond (Continued)

Defined Learning

Edmentum

Education Elements Energy Systems Group

ESS

First Security Beardsley

Imagine Learning

Middleton, Inc.

OnToCollege

Rave Mobile Safety SmartData Dashboard

Stephens, Inc.

Tanium

White River Services and Solutions

Winsor Learning

Platinum AAMSCO

Architecture Plus, Inc.

C.R. Crawford Construction, LLC

Cromwell Architects Engineers

DotCom Therapy, Inc.

Entegrity Energy Partners, LLC

Legacy Construction Management

Nabholz Construction Corp.

Platinum (Continued)

Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA)

Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects

Progressive Technologies

TRANE US, Inc.

Gold

CDI Contractors

Cynergy Rehab Group

Goalbook

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

IXL Learning

Kinco Constructors, LLC

Phoenix Contractors, LLC

Red Comet

TIPS - The Interlocal Purchasing System

Zaner-Bloser

Silver American Bus Sales, Inc.

Correll, Inc.

French Architects, PA

Hight-Jackson Associates, PA SEAS

Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director

SUMMERTIME!

Another school year has ended, and it felt like a normal year for the most part. I know there are many questions we are facing regarding new legislation, but I feel good about the summer and your ability to get some rest and begin planning for a great year in 2023-2024. We have new standards that seem to be more clear and easier to understand. We will have a new assessment system that should more accurately reflect what students are learning based on our standards. We have been given an opportunity to pay our teachers more and possibly attract more into the education profession. We have the leaders and talent to make this a success. Students will succeed academically because you and your staff will accept these new challenges and rise to the occasion. It will take tremendous work, but we are capable.

Recently, I had the opportunity to spend the day visiting with new superintendents and veteran superintendents as we learned from each other. Given all the recent changes, I asked for this meeting because I was worried about new superintendents coming into the role on July 1. After the first few minutes of hearing from them about strengths and needed support, I was inspired by the next generation of leaders entering this leadership role. My worry was quickly replaced with confidence. We each have our strengths and weaknesses. When we add our strengths to a network of shared expertise, the collective knowledge will lead to greater academic achievement and sound district operations. The same can be said for every position in the district. That is why networking and opportunities to learn together are so important. We cannot do this job effectively in isolation. I reflected on my time as a new superintendent and as a principal. I was privileged to follow administrators who left a great foundation to build on. I also realized the support that I had from my network of coworkers and mentors. In every position I have held, I would have five or so people to call for advice. I had so many because I did not want to contact one multiple times a day or week. I liked to spread my questions around so people didn't think I was totally inept. I still have people I call. I have new friends in other states who do the same job for other associations. I also call Dr. Abernathy and Dr. Kimbrell occasionally to ask questions. One of the best supports is in the office right next to me. His name is Mr. Mertens, and he is an encyclopedia of knowledge about the association and other areas of Arkansas school administration. The bottom line is this - we all need support and coaching to be successful. Be sure to continue building your network.

The next big things on the policy front horizon are rulemaking and the adequacy study. The rules groups for Act 237 have begun to meet for Career Readiness, Educator Workforce, and Parental Empowerment. There is a temporary delay in future meetings due to some legal challenges made to the emergency clause timeline. However, this work will have to continue, and we are excited about several AAEA members serving on the rules committees. In addition to the LEARNS Act, rules for other new education laws will need to be written. The adequacy study will begin in January 2024, but potential changes to the funding formula will be discussed in the September, October, and November Joint Education meetings. The plan is to hear from the Education Commission of the States (ECS) and Tennessee on various formulas from other states. ECS has a website that provides reports and comparisons for school funding formulas. You can also find information about the Tennessee formula on their website. It is exciting for some and terrifying for others when there are discussions of funding formula change. In almost every iteration, there tend to be winners and losers, or at least some that win more. Based on my conversations with school leaders, some things would be worth studying and changing. We will have to stay engaged over the next several months and, at some point, decide whether to advocate for change based on ideas from other states or maintain what we have. Your voice will be important in this discussion.

I hope you have a great month of June and get to take some time off. Thank you for your service to the students and families of Arkansas. Public education is a wonderful asset to our state, and we must continue to perform our duties with the utmost integrity, transparency, and focus on results. We are here to support you in these efforts.

President’s Perspective

Brian Kirkendoll, AAEA Board President

THANKS

As my term as President of the Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators (AAEA) comes to an end, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the members of AAEA for giving me the opportunity to serve you. It has been an incredible honor to work with such a dedicated and passionate group of administrators. The support and collaboration I have received from many of you have been truly amazing.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Dr. Karla Neathery who will be assuming the role of AAEA President in July. I have no doubt that she will excel in this position and continue to foster the growth and success of our organization. Dr. Neathery's wealth of knowledge, experience, and dedication to education make her the perfect person to work alongside Dr. Hernandez and the AAEA staff.

Throughout this year, I have had the privilege of networking with school administrators from across Arkansas. The connections I have made and the insights I have gained through these interactions have been invaluable. The collective wisdom and expertise within our association are truly remarkable, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from so many leaders.

I want to express my sincere appreciation for the trust and support you have placed in me during my time as AAEA President. Thank you once again for allowing me to be a part of this incredible journey.

Benefits Corner

Mental Health Month

Submitted by Emily Cole, Marketing Coordinator, Educational Benefits

With summer around the corner and your environment soon changing, we’re focusing on ways you can control your personal space. Having a comforting and tidy personal or work space can promote feelings of serenity, increase productivity, and lessen anxiety. Here are 2 steps you can take to cultivate your space:

1. Practice Tidiness: Keeping your living space clean is shown to promote calmness and a sense of control over your day-to-day life. Your home environment doesn’t need to be spotless, but clutter can be harmful to your mental state, contributing to depression, trouble focusing, confusion, and stress. Not only can clutter be distracting, but it has been shown to actually make it harder for your brain to think clearly. Neatness also provides predictability, which can cut down on brain fatigue and anxiety. Less time looking for lost items or getting distracted is always a good thing.

2. Make Your Bedroom Sleep-Friendly: Poor sleep can trigger or worsen mental health challenges, while getting quality rest can protect your mental health. How can you

make your bedroom more conducive to getting a good night’s sleep?

• Keep it cool - the ideal sleeping temperature is 60-67°F. Keep a fan around for warm nights, and blankets nearby for cold nights.

• Lessen excess noise. You can use a noise machine or white noise app to drown out annoying sounds, or use ear plugs.

• Make your space dark - Try to limit the amount of light in your space, including electronics which create blue light that can disrupt circadian rhythms. Use blinds or blackout curtains to keep outside light out.

• Prep! If starting the day is overwhelming, lay out your clothes and pack your lunch the night before so you can grab them quickly when the morning comes.

Our mental wellness is important, and many factors come into play when it comes to our mental health. Take some time to look around and make note of your surroundings and look within to see how they might be affecting you. Be on the lookout next month for additional tips and tricks to promote a productive and calming space.

Awards

Ahna Davis

AASSP Principal of the Year

Ahna Davis, Principal at Cabot Freshman Academy in the Cabot School District, was recently named the 2023 Arkansas Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) Principal of the Year. This award is given each year to an Arkansas secondary level principal who has succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students and has been recognized as exhibiting exceptional leadership skills in the school community.

Novella Humphrey

AAFC Howard Wallace Federal Coordinator of the Year

Novella Humphrey, Director of Federal Programs/ Curriculum of Southside School District, was recently named the 2023 Arkansas Association of Federal Coordinators (AAFC) Howard Wallace Federal Coordinator of the Year. This award is given each year in honor of Mr. Howard Wallace, long time school educator, Arkansas Department of Education staff member, and mentor to many. award recognizes an Arkansas educator for outstanding service to public schools and for “making a difference.”

Monroe Pointer

ASPMA School Plant Manager of the Year

Monroe Pointer, Director of Facilities with Jonesboro Public Schools, was recently named the 2023 Arkansas School Plant Management Association (ASPMA) School Plant Manager of the Year. This award is given each year to an Arkansas school plant manager who has succeeded in contributing to a positive and motivating learning and teaching environment and has been recognized as exhibiting exceptional leadership skills in the school community and at the state level.

Over the Top

How a Proper Roofing Ventilation System Saves Money

Submitted by Deveny Coryell, Editor, Coryell Roofing & Construction

A proper roofing ventilation system reduces wear and tear on your HVAC system and increases the lifespan of a roofing system. The heated air that accumulates in the uppermost regions of your roof is often accompanied by moisture. Without a way of escape, this heated, moisture rich air taxes your cooling system and damages your roofing system.

ROOF VENTILATION SYSTEMS AND THE HVAC SYSTEM

A proper ventilation system helps remove the heat that accumulates under a roofing system. Without an adequate ventilation system, the heated air has no way to escape, and it seeps back into a building. This unnecessary incursion of heated air causes an HVAC system to work overtime to cool the building, which leads to excessive wear and tear and higher than necessary repair or replacement costs.

ROOF VENTILATION SYSTEMS AND THE INTEGRITY OF A ROOFING SYSTEM

The hot air that accumulates at the top of a building and along its sides often contains moisture. When this moisture builds up, it condenses and leads to mold growth.

Undetected mold growth damages the structural elements of a roof by breaking down wood fiber in decking and joists. This promotes wood rot and compromises the structural integrity of a roofing system. Mold can even erode the asphalt on shingles. Here are just a few signs of an inadequate or improperly functioning ventilation system:

• Peeling paint or bubbling ceiling

• Mold and mildew in attic areas

• Rust on metal components like nails or fasteners

• Decking that sags or feels spongy

• Cracked shingles or premature loss of granules

• Higher than expected cooling bills

Proper air flow matters. Roofing specialists, like those on the Coryell Roofing and Construction team, are trained to evaluate a roof’s ventilation system to ensure it is adequate and that it is functioning properly. Schedule a free inspection today. It could save you money and make your summer a whole lot more comfortable!

Keeping Your Benefits When Leaving Your Job Compliance Connection

Submitted by Ginger Huff, Arkansas State Manager, American Fidelity Assurance Co.

Leaving your employer can be a stressful and confusing time. When it comes to your benefits, some insurance plans have portability or conversion options, which allow you to keep the policy regardless of where you work or if you retire. In some cases, you may continue your coverage for a period of time under Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).

You may be able to keep some Individual Policies such as Accident Insurance, Cancer Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, and Life Insurance. Typically, your Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (HCFSA) or Dependent Care Account (DCA) ends on your last day of work. Depending on your plan, you may have a runoff period that allows you to submit eligible expenses after your last day. However, these expenses usually need to be incurred during your time on the job. Learn more about what to do with your HCFSA when your job changes.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are individually owned and do not terminate when you change

employers. If you leave your employer, you can take your account with you. Also, as long as you continue to meet the HSA requirements, you can contribute and withdraw your HSA savings wherever you go. It’s important to talk to your employer about account management fees -they might cover them for you while you’re employed.

If you have multiple employer-sponsored retirement accounts from previous employers, you may be able to roll your funds over into your current employer’s plan, or keep them where they are. Rolling the funds over could help ease tracking of your investments. Keeping them where they are may allow you to maintain specific investments, but may also limit future access or incur fees. There could also be different pre- or post-tax benefits to each plan that should be considered too. The options available to you may vary depending on each retirement plan’s rules. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your financial or tax advisor to see what’s best for you.

Read the full article here.

Administrator Spotlight: W.T. “Dusty” Duncan

Assistant Superintendent, Marion School District

W. T. “Dusty” Duncan, Assistant Superintendent at Marion School District, says that he loved science and sports as a kid, and so has always wanted to teach and coach. He believes his career in education to be a calling. ”Much like a minister is called to his profession,” he says, ”I belong in this arena and have received much fulfillment doing this work.”

Dusty started his teaching career in 1982 at West Junior High in West Memphis, teaching Jr. High Science and coaching 7 grade basketball, which he says ”was probably the most fun job I ever had.” In 1993 he transferred to Marion High School

to start the Principles of Technology Program, and also taught physics, biology and coached football and basketball. ”In Marion, I have served as a teacher/coach, building administrator, athletics director, facilities director and currently as the Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services,” he states.

Dusty says his favorite thing about his job is completing a project, however it’s also the most challenging part. He says the biggest change he’s seen in the field of education over his career is that ”we are more business-like. Processes are more data driven and outcome based. It’s not OK to say ‘this is how we’ve always done it.’” He says for those considering the career: ”If you think this is what you are supposed to do, do it! If you are supposed to teach you will not find fulfillment anywhere else.” Of his own career, he says, “I am proud of my 41 years in education. And I am proud every time an adult that I do not recognize stops me and introduces me to their spouse or children as Mr./Coach Duncan, because that student knew at least one person cared about them.”

with Dusty Duncan ? ! Q&A

What is the best advice you have ever received?

1. The best advice I ever received was that I needed to receive Jesus as presented in the gospel message. 2. My dad once told me, hurry up and marry that girl before she changes her mind. 3. I heard John Wooden say “Significance can only be achieved by contributing to the success of others.” I took their advice and believe all three men were very wise.

Tell me about any awards or recognition you have received.

I have a Master Certification from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. I have been allowed to teach for the NIAAA, the Arkansas Athletic Administrators Association and the National Federation of State High School Association. I have completed CFD and CASBO Certifications and served on both boards. I teach classes for both ASPMA and AASBO. I also served on the AAEA Board as ASPMA President and was awarded the ASPMA Blue Ribbon Award. I am a proud member of the OAKRIVET Family, having been duly selected by the students of the Marion, Herbert Carter Global Community Magnet.

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

Pre-Jesus – I was kicked out of school. Not suspended, booted out. It’s just by the grace of God that I was allowed to graduate.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

Spending time with grandkids, woodworking, blacksmithing and anything outdoors.

What are the goals you are still working toward?

I want to be more like Jesus. I want to be a work in progress, putting forth my very best always. I want to help others succeed. And I want my grandchildren to know how important these things are.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Wherever my grandchildren are! I also want to be working (a little) in some area of service.

When people look back at your life, how do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as caring about other folks. The guy they called when they needed help.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?

Networking, no question! All these smart people, doing cool things and willing to share it all.

This year’s School Law and Finance Conference will take place on June 6 at Jacksonville High School. The conference will include a 2023 Legislative Session review, breakout sessions, and an update on AR LEARNS.

This conference is designed for district teams who want to learn more about quality instruction for ALL learners and behavior management strategies and tools that can be utilized on the first day of school. Come join us as we learn together!

School Business Officials! Plant Managers!

The Arkansas Association of School Business Officials (AASBO) has scheduled six sessions of certification classes for July 6-7, 2023, at the Benton Event Center in Benton. Attend to learn valuable information and receive updates in public school finance as well as meeting and networking with other school business officials throughout the state.

The Arkansas School Plant Management Association (ASPMA) has scheduled three Certified Facilities Director classes for July 20, 2023, at the Powers of Arkansas, located at 5440 Northshore Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72118. Classes will only be held in person (live-streaming not available).

All Administrators!

The 2023 AAEA Summer Conference: Building Arkansas's Future Workforce, will feature keynote speakers, over one hundred breakout sessions from inspiring educational leaders, an exhibit hall, and hospitality events. Join administrators from across the state to learn, network, and celebrate what we do to prepare students for the future!

Director of the Inclusive Schools Network that hosts the Annual Inclusive Schools Week with participation from 240 countries from around the world. Frances has been a teacher, state department of education chief consultant, director of a national research project for OCEP and OCR, author of the First Annual Report to Congress re: IDEA under contract with OSEP, Director of Special Education and Director of General Education and Accreditation for the largest regional education center in Texas. Under her leadership, Stetson & Associates, Inc. has served educators in schools and state departments of education in 36 states and five foreign countries.

Mark C. Perna is the founder and CEO of TFS Results, a fullservice strategic consulting firm at the forefront of the national paradigm shift in education and workforce development. Mark, a graduate of John Carroll University, has many years of experience addressing industry leaders on the topic of expanding their reach in an increasingly global

Dr. Frances Stetson

Asked & Answered

Mike Mertens, AAEA Assistant Executive Director

The question was, "I have an assistant principal who was participating in the BAI program. She will now be a first-year principal. Do we need to send her to BAI training again?" The answer is "no," she is not required to go through the first year of the BA program again.

A first-year administrator with no prior experience as an administrator is required to receive mentoring/induction support for his or her first three years of employment. The Beginning Administrator Induction (BAI) and first year of mentoring support are provided in partnership with the DESE and the AAEA. Upon hiring new administrators, school districts must register the following:

• First-year administrators (excluding superintendents):

◦ Principal

◦ Assistant Principal

◦ Curriculum Administrator

◦ Special Education Administrator

• Administrators from out-of-state with previous experience; and administrators returning to the profession

Regarding the second and third years of the program, beginning administrators in years 2-3 do not need to register for the induction program. These individuals will continue to be supported through DESE, AAEA, the education service cooperatives, and their school districts, but their training requirements have been met.

Read Commissioner's Memo LIC-23-012 for more details.

CORRECTION: Last month's Asked and Answered reported that Acts of the 2023 Legislative Session without an emergency clause would become law on July 30. A recent AG opinion, 2023-031, stated that the 90-day window after the sine die adjournment date of May 1 starts on May 2 (the first full day after final adjournment) and would conclude on Sunday, July 30, 2023. But since Sunday is not a day on which referenda petitions can be filed, the deadline extends to the next business day: Monday, July 31, 2023. Thus, acts without an emergency clause or a specified effective date become effective on August 1, 2023.

If you have questions for Mike, email him at m.mertens@theaaea.org .

CoSN: Support for Technology Administrators

CoSN

AAEA On a Role!

Lenett Thrasher

Director of Learning Services and Operations

Learn more about AAEA Staff and the roles they serve!

Lenett Thrasher serves as the Director of Learning Services and Operations for the AAEA and she says she loves every minute of it! “My favorite roles in education have been the ones in which I was able to serve as support for administrators. Their jobs are so tough and getting to help them when they have a need is extremely rewarding to me,” she says. “I have the privilege of working with the AAEA board and the AACIA, AAESP, AAMLA, and AASEA groups as well as the beginning administrators and advisors across the state. Additionally, I work with our corporate sponsors and representatives from the venues where we host conferences to secure contracts.“

This is Lenett’s third year in this position at the AAEA. Before entering this role she served as Assistant State Superintendent with the AR Department of Education for two years, Teacher Center Coordinator with the Arch Ford ESC for seven and a half years, and teacher, instructional supervisor, assistant principal, and principal with the Greenbrier School District for nineteen years.

Lenett has been married to her husband, Steve, for 34 years. She says their lives are centered around family, church, and working on their little farm. “My favorite hobby is cooking for our twins, Hayden and Hunter, and their wives, Elaina and Melanie. We are expecting our first grandbaby this December and are over the moon with excitement! I love leading Bible studies for ladies at our church, serving in the praise band, and enjoy gardening, landscaping, and working outside. My goal is to always leave everything better than I found it. Serving others brings me great joy.”

The AAEA Job Board can now be found at

arjobsined.schoolspring.com

The AAEA Job Board is a calendar-year subscription that assists districts with the ever-increasing challenge of recruiting quality staff. It is a significant resource for educators, both in-state and outof-state, seeking employment in Arkansas schools.

Over 165 school districts are participating in the program, which has been extremely helpful to schools and educators over the years. The site is used year-round and is accessed extensively during the second semester. It is not unusual to see over 400 jobs posted on the Job Board at one time. With an account, school districts may post unlimited job vacancies throughout the year.

To subscribe (by district) or to post job openings, contact Marty Smith, Member Relations Manager, at m.smith@theaaea.org or at 501-372-1691.

Openings

District Name

Position

Watson Chapel School District GT Coordinator and AP Coordinator

Watson Chapel School District Assistant Superintendent

Watson Chapel School District Secondary Principal

Watson Chapel School District Dean of Students

Lafayette County School District Secondary Assistant Principal 7-12

Gentry Public School District Primary School Principal

Greene County Tech School District High School Assistant Principal

Little Rock School District Assistant Principal – Baseline Elementary

Jackson County School District Middle School Principal

Pulaski County Special School District Elementary Assistant Principal

Little Rock School District Security IT Manager

North Little Rock School District

North Little Rock School District

Coordinator of Federal, State, and Strategic Programs

Coordinator of Science, Environmental Literacy, Outdoor Education and Advanced Programs

Warren School District Middle School Assistant Principal

Openings (continued)

District Name Position

Lake Hamilton School District 21st Century Community Learning Site Coordinator

Gravette Public Schools 21st Century Program Director

Marion School District Assistant Athletic Director

Marion School District District ESOL Coordinator

Mayflower School District Gifted and Talented (GT) Director/Teacher

Pulaski County Special School District Director of Talented and Gifted Programs

Northwest AR Ed Serv Coop K-12 Gifted and Talented Specialist

Little Rock School District Assistant Director of Maintenance and Operations

Bryant Public Schools Assistant Principal – Elementary

Junction City School District Special Education LEA Supervisor

Pulaski County Special School District Secondary Assistant Principal

Hot Springs School District Communications and Public Relations Coordinator

Pocahontas School District Technology Director

Arkansas Arts Academy K-6 Principal

Batesville School District Elementary Principal

Crossett School District Elementary Assistant Principal

Beebe School District Junior High School Assistant Principal

Hope School District High School Principal

Conway School District Chief Legal Officer

Russellville School District RHS Assistant Principal

Russellville School District RMS Principal

Fort Smith Public Schools Supervisor of Curriculum and Professional Development

Arkansas Arts Academy High School Principal

Bentonville School District Junior High School Principal – Fulbright Junior High School

Bentonville School District Elementary Principal – Mary Mae Elementary School

Bentonville School District Elementary Principal – Elm Tree Elementary School

Earle School District Secondary Principal

Mayflower School District Technology Director

Fayette School District McNair Middle School Principal

Dumas School District Secondary High School Principal

Fayetteville School District Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning

Helena-West Helena School District Secondary Assistant Principal

Fayetteville School District Owl Creek Elementary Principal

Pulaski County Special School District Coordinator of Special Education

Sneak Peek: Instructional Leader

This segment features content from other AAEA publications. Instructional Leader is a quarterly publication available to subscribing districts. The following excerpt comes from the March 2023 issue.

SETTING THE TONE AND CARRYING THE LOAD LEADERSHIP HAS NEVER BEEN MORE CRITICAL TO OUR STUDENT'S SUCCESS

Today more than ever, the leadership in our schools is critical to our student’s success. As professional educators, we opted for the challenge and privilege of working with students in the most important and rewarding profession. I say this because education is the pathway for all other professions and occupations, and we impact students at such an influential time in their lives.

When you search for the definition of leadership, you find “the action of leading a group of people or an organization” or “the state or position of being a leader.” You can also get a sense of leadership by reviewing its synonyms, which include directing, overseeing, coaching, supervision, and shepherding, to name a few. As I studied these, the one that caught my eye was shepherding. Of course, the term shepherding originates from the overseer and protector of sheep. Shepherding can also fit many other situations; the Bible contains many of these in its stories. As a person thinks about the responsibilities of overseeing and protecting those under their care, it can be somewhat overwhelming. So, how do we meet the responsibility of overseeing and protecting others through our leadership? I would argue that awareness and being intentional are two critical components.

The leaders in public education wear many hats, and they all play a big part in the success of a given school. Leadership roles include teachers, coaches, and building-level and district-level administration. As stated above, the components of awareness and being intentional are essential but can often get lost in the challenges of the day. Considering the importance of these two leadership traits, we must protect ourselves from not utilizing them as we serve others. With this in mind, we must realize awareness must come before intentionality to have a successful outcome. Awareness traits are not limited to but include self-awareness, how others respond to you, your physical surroundings, and the perception of your classroom, school, or district. A leader with a heightened awareness understands the

tone in their classroom, school, and district. It is often said that you can feel the culture when you walk into the building, which is 100 percent true. The leadership sets the tone for their particular environment, whether or not the leader is aware of it. The critical aspect of this is our influence on our students and co-workers.

As a leader reflects on their awareness, they must consider the impact they have already had or will have on others. We all feel accomplished when a former student or co-worker tells us we made a positive difference in their lives. Their message may contain comments about our content knowledge, pedagogy, or other skills related to our particular job. However, they most always have comments about how we made them feel. You will hear words like; you always believed in me, you knew what to say to encourage me, or I knew you cared about me. This list can go on and on. Then there is the other side of the impact we can have on others, which is a negative one. On this side, those negatively impacted by us often do not share this with us. They just move on and carry the weight of the negative experiences. Our awareness of this must cause us to reflect on how we treat others, particularly those we

Contributor: Gary Williams, Superintendent, White Hall School District

have committed to protecting. When we positively impact the ones we lead, we will hear authentic feedback from them. If we hear little to nothing, we may need to consider why.

The question one should ask then is what all should we be aware of to be the best leader we can be so those under our leadership benefit. As stated above, selfawareness, how others respond to you, your physical surroundings, and the perception of your classroom, school, or district must be on the list. But other areas to be aware of must also be considered by us. One of these is the strength of your relationship with the other person or group. Another piece to be highly aware of is how your body language can impact an individual during an interaction. We must also consider the words we use and how and when we use them. Understanding the personal side of what we do in providing valued leadership is also essential. For example, if we interact with someone regarding the day's business and move directly into the interaction, the person or group will not see us as warm and caring. In these interactions, you will receive little to no feedback from the person or group you are interacting with, but they will leave that conversation less appreciated and respected.

On the other hand, we can enter conversations, even the difficult ones, with interest in the person or group and show we sincerely care. In most cases, engaging in a personal way, in the beginning, will build trust and grow the relationship, providing a sense of belonging. Moreover, when we connect with those under our leadership, they become more productive and value where they attend school or work.

Awareness is vital to successful leadership, but it alone is not enough. Once we develop a high understanding, we must use that knowledge to become better leaders. One does this by becoming intentional with their words

and actions. Unfortunately, so often, what we do and say is random. When we interact with others in such a way, the outcomes may not be what we desire.

When we use strategies to achieve the desired result, we significantly increase the likelihood. These strategies are not secret and are available through various resources. As educators, we must study the process of positive human interaction, which is essential for good leadership. We have heard the cliche about students not caring about what you know until they know you care. Students and adults desire their leaders to care about them as individuals, which is what we do as leaders: care about those we serve. However, this is where being intentional allows those impactful relationships to flourish. Without deliberate, strategic actions and words, our care for others is often not realized by them. The intent is the secret sauce that makes the culture we desire to have possible.

As we look back at the title of this article, it is essential to remember that leaders will, by default, set the tone for their environment, whether it is the classroom, school, or district as a whole. This is simply accomplished by the role they have. On the other hand, a leader can “Set the tone and carry the load” by keeping a keen awareness of the areas mentioned earlier and using proven relationship strategies in an intentional process to be indeed the protectors to those