The Administrator Newsletter - May 2024

WE ARE IN THE FINAL STRETCH

Dr. Mike Hernandez offers advice for a successful conclusion to the year.

ENDING THE SCHOOL YEAR STRONG

Dr. Karla Neathery shares a checklist to help facilitate a smooth end to the school year.

In the Spotlight this month is Stacey Southerland, Career & Technical Education Coordinator at the DeQueen-Mena Education Service Cooperative.

2024 Calendar of Events AAEA Staff

Dr. Mike Hernandez

Executive Director m.hernandez@theaaea.org

Mike Mertens Assistant Executive Director m.mertens@theaaea.org

Lenett Thrasher Director of Learning Services & Operations l.thrasher@theaaea.org

Sharon Chuculate Fiscal Services Coordinator s.chuculate@theaaea.org

Sarah Shamburger Business Manager s.shamburger@theaaea.org

Alyse Mattox Communications & Technology Specialist a.mattox@theaaea.org

Melanie Thrasher Business Analyst m.thrasher@theaaea.org

Lana Webb Administrative Specialist l.webb@theaaea.org

Rachel Blocker Administrative Assistant r.blocker@theaaea.org

May

AAFC Spring Conference, May 1-3, 2024

Hot Springs Convention Center

AAEA/ASBA Joint Conference, May 7, 2024

Wyndham Riverfront, North Little Rock

June

School Law and Finance Conference, June 4, 2024

Clarksville High School

AASEA Conference, June 10-11, 2024

Benton Event Center

July

Certified Facilities Director (CFD) Classes, July 18, 2024

Crowley’s Ridge Education Service Center, Harrisburg

AAEA Summer Conference, July 29-31, 2024

Marriott Hotel & Statehouse Convention Center, Little Rock

September

AAFC Fall Conference, September 18-20, 2024

Hot Springs Convention Center

ArkASPA Fall Conference, September 24, 2024

Benton Event Center

October

ASPMA Conference, September 30-October 2, 2024

Hot Springs Convention Center

AAGEA Conference, October 3, 2024

Benton Event Center

AAEA Fall Conference, October 22, 2024

Benton Event Center

November

AACTEA Conference, November 7, 2024

Benton Event Center

For more information, visit theaaea.org/events.

2023-2024 AAEA Board of Directors

Dr. Karla Neathery AAEA President Superintendent, Sheridan

Dr. Andrea Martin AASA President Superintendent, Greenland

Steven Helmick AAESP President-Elect Principal, Little Rock

Matt Ziegler AASSP Past President Principal, Riverside

Kelsey Bailey AASBO President Chief Financial Officer, Little Rock

Valerie King AAGEA President Director of Gifted Programs, Siloam Springs

Dr. Mike Hernandez AAEA Executive Director

Stacy DeFoor AAEA President-Elect Assistant Superintendent, Benton

Kelvin Gragg AASA President-Elect AssistantPineSuperintendent, Bluff

Carol Skiba AAESP Past President Principal, Cabot

Rebecca Rosburg ArkASPA President Assistant Superintendent for HR/Federal Programs, Hot Springs

Melody Crane AASBO Past President Business Manager/District Treasurer, Hector

Jason Brunner AAMLA President Assistant Principal, Bentonville

Charles Warren AAEA Board Secretary Chief Financial Officer, Fort Smith

Dr. Debbie Bruick-Jones AASA Secretary Superintendent, Bentonville

Amy Marek AASSP President Principal, Hazen

Lisa AACTEAHotsenpiller President Director of Career & Technical Education, Fayetteville

Natalie Gosdin AASEA President Director of Special Education, Searcy

Greg Collins ASPMA President (begin Oct) Maintenance/Facilities Supervisor, Dover

Brian Kirkendoll AAEA Past President Principal, Alma

Shawn Rose AAESP President Principal, Hillcrest

Dr. Jason Reeves AASSP President-Elect Assistant Principal, Alma

Dr. Dana Brown AAFC President Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, Mountain Home

Ellen Phipps AACIA President Curriculum Director, Ouachita

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

2024 AAEA Corporate Sponsors

Presidential

American Fidelity Assurance Co.

Coryell Roofing and Construction, Inc.

Curriculum Associates

Educational Benefits, Inc.

Lifetouch National School Studios, Inc.

NIET - National Institute for Excellence in Teaching

Solution Tree, Inc.

Prestigious

Bailey Education Group

Cognia

Just Right Reader

Performance Services

Renaissance Learning, Inc.

School Responder

Distinguished

Capturing Kids’ Hearts

Energy Systems Group

Lexia Learning

Diamond Apptegy

Arkansas Public Safety Solutions

Baldwin & Shell

Diamond (Continued)

ClassWallet

ClearGov

Edmentum

Education Elements

Energy Systems Group

ESS

First Security Beardsley

Goalbook

Imagine Learning

Middleton, Inc.

OnToCollege

SmartData Dashboard

Stephens, Inc.

Tanium

White River Services and Solutions

Winsor Learning

Platinum

AAMSCO

Architecture Plus, Inc.

C.R. Crawford Construction, LLC

Entegrity Energy Partners, LLC

Hight Jackson Associates

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt / NWEA

Legacy Construction Management

Nabholz Construction Corp.

Platinum (Continued)

Phoenix Contractors

Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects

Powers of Arkansas

Pro Benefits Group, Inc.

Progressive Technologies

TRANE US, Inc.

Gold

CDI Contractors

Cromwell Architects Engineers

Cynergy Rehab Group

IXL Learning

Kinco Constructors, LLC

Pearson Virtual Schools

Red Comet

TIPS - The Interlocal Purchasing System

Silver Adleta

American Bus Sales, Inc.

Correll, Inc.

French Architects, PA

SEAS

Varsity Tutors for Schools

Executive Viewpoint

Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director

WE ARE IN THE FINAL STRETCH

We are charging hard to the end of the 2023-2024 school year. Implementing new policies and procedures has been full of tough challenges with the hope that they will lead to academic improvement. New testing, human resource protocols, compensation packages, and competition for students have kept your heads spinning. I am proud of our state educators' work to help our students learn and thrive. As the school year enters its final month, administrators will be pivotal in guiding students, teachers, and staff through the last leg of their academic journey. With a focus on academic achievement, emotional well-being, and closing protocols, administrators must ensure a smooth and successful conclusion to the year.

Even though testing under the new ATLAS system is quickly ending, the end of the school year is an essential time for academic review, assessment, and reinforcement. There should be limited interruption in the learning process. District leaders and principals should work closely with teachers to ensure that the curriculum continues to be taught and that preparation for next year is completed. What should each student be working on over the summer? What kind of preview can I give the student for information that will be taught next year? Are there any deficiencies in student learning that I can correct? These are all great questions to discuss in your district and building leadership team meetings. This will help you implement strategies for academic support, such as tutoring sessions or study groups, to help struggling students catch up and succeed in the coming 2024-2025 school year.

The final stretch of the school year can give rise to students exhibiting behavior problems due to the lack of teaching and learning. This can be emotionally taxing for students and staff alike. One thing to consider is using this time to prioritize the reinforcement of behavior protocols with students and the expectations for students transitioning to new buildings. Year-end may be a time for working with any mental health staff and counselors to provide emotional support for students to help them express their feelings and concerns about the end of the year. Many may have anxiety when it comes to an extended break. These feelings could be due to a lack of contact with friends, food insecurity, or other homerelated issues. Even some graduating students may have anxiety about the next steps in their lives and need that reassurance and support. I know that staff are often ready to turn the page, but this time and conversation can wisely be used to help the district provide quality summer support. Likewise, acknowledge the hard work and dedication of teachers and staff and offer support and encouragement as they navigate the year's final weeks.

Of course, it is important to celebrate the achievements and milestones of the school year as it draws to a close. Organize end-of-year events such as award ceremonies, talent shows, or class picnics to recognize student accomplishments and foster a sense of community spirit. These celebrations provide closure and create lasting memories for students and staff to cherish. I have seen many celebrations already planned for schools on social media. What an excellent opportunity to engage parents and the community as you celebrate the students and staff.

Many administrative tasks need to be completed, including finalizing student records, any remaining assessments, and preparing for student scheduling. There is also an opportunity for administrators to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past year and begin planning for the future. Conduct debriefing sessions with principals, teachers, and staff to gather feedback and insights on what worked

well and what can be improved. This information will inform strategic planning and goal-setting for the upcoming school year, ensuring continuous growth and improvement. There are several plans that districts are working on to enter into the new AR APP. Even though the application may be nearing completion, it would be good to continue to gather feedback and share plans with the school staff. The final consideration is to ensure that there is effective communication as the school year comes to an end. Keep parents, students, and staff informed about important dates, events, and procedures through newsletters, emails, or school websites. Addressing concerns or questions promptly and transparently fosters trust and collaboration within the school community. There are many moving parts over the summer, such as summer school, feeding programs, activity practices, building cleaning, etc. Communication is critical and must be done clearly and consistently.

You are almost there, and I am proud of all of you for the work you’ve done this year. I know we will see some positive gains in student learning and positive momentum for the future. Keep up the great work as we wind the year down. Always know we are here to support you.

Cultivating Connections: The Heartbeat of Education Character Connection

Submitted by Capturing Kids’ Hearts

In the dynamic world of education, where each day brings new challenges and opportunities, one constant remains: the enduring impact of genuine human connection. Picture a classroom buzzing with energy, where teachers and students are sharing lessons and forging bonds that transcend the boundaries of textbooks and tests.

These authentic relationships, steeped in empathy and a commitment to nurturing a supportive environment, form the bedrock of impactful teaching. It's about more than just imparting knowledge; it's about igniting a spark within each student, fueling a lifelong journey of discovery and growth.

As educators, our mission is expansive. It extends beyond the confines of academic achievements to empowering our students to unlock their full potential and become agents of change in their communities and beyond.

Together, let's create vibrant spaces where every student is not just a passive learner but an active participant in their education journey. Let's cultivate a culture where curiosity is celebrated, and every voice is valued.

These authentic connections are not just fleeting moments; they are seeds of transformation that have the power to shape not only minds but also futures. So, let's water these seeds with intention and care, nurturing environments where students thrive and are inspired to leave their mark on the world.

To learn more about how your team can use the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® Process to cultivate connections on your campus, visit ckh.org.

President’s Perspective

Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Board President

ENDING THE SCHOOL YEAR STRONG

The end of the school year is a whirlwind, but with a good plan, you can ensure a smooth transition and set the stage for a successful year ahead. This checklist will help you wrap up the current year and lay the groundwork for next year.

Wrap Up the School Year

• Finalize student records: Ensure all grades and transcripts are finalized and accurate.

• Solidify building budgets: This can help teachers get the right supplies, digital tools and resources they need.

• Schedule summer maintenance: Coordinate with custodial staff to schedule any necessary cleaning, repairs, or renovations for the summer.

• Communicate with parents: Send a final communication to parents outlining important dates, summer learning resources, and information about the upcoming school year.

Reflect on the Past Year

• Review data and reports: Analyze test scores, attendance data, and program evaluations to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement

• Gather feedback: Conduct surveys with staff, parents, and students to gain insights into the school climate and areas for improvement.

• Reflect on goals: Assess how well the school achieved its goals for the year.

Celebrate accomplishments

• Recognize staff achievements: Publicly acknowledge and celebrate the hard work of your teachers and staff.

• Celebrate student achievements: Organize end-of-year awards ceremonies or celebrations to recognize student success.

Finalize Staff Matters

• Complete evaluations: Finalize all teacher and staff evaluations.

• Plan for staffing changes: If there are staff changes, finalize the hiring process or identify temporary replacements.

• Scheduled professional development: Plan professional development opportunities for the upcoming year based on identified needs

Plan for the Upcoming Year

• Develop strategic plan: Use data and feedback for the previous year to develop a strategic plan for the upcoming year.

• Order supplies: Order necessary supplies and materials for the next school year.

• Review/update policies: Review school policies and procedures and make any necessary updates.

Take Care of Yourself

• Schedule downtime: Plan some time for relaxation and rejuvenation before the next school year begins.

By following an end of the year checklist, you can ensure a smooth end of the current school year and a successful start to the next. Remember, taking care of yourself is also important - schedule some time to relax and recharge before the next year's adventure begins!

The Role of Superintendents in School Safety Efforts Safety & Wellness Segment

Submitted by Barbara Grimm, Founder and President of School Responder, and C.J. Huff, Ed.D.

As the face of a school district, superintendents have a wide range of responsibilities, from managing personnel and finances to overseeing curriculum. However, one of their most important duties is ensuring a safe school environment where teachers can teach, and students can learn. Providing balanced leadership on multiple fronts is an on-going daily challenge for superintendents.

On one hand, district superintendents are expected to support school safety by implementing emergency operations plans that should consider procedures, protocols, systems, infrastructure, and facilities. This alone can be a challenge across each of the four phases of emergency management - prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. This is an unwritten expectation of the community, parents, staff, and students. On the other hand, superintendents are also responsible for promoting a positive school climate. This includes providing support for students, building relationships within the school and community, and offering integrated systems of care across basic, mental health, wellness, and yes, safety needs.

The simple fact is one cannot exist without the other. The emergency management infrastructure “cannot be so intrusive that our students and families feel they interfere disproportionately upon the educational experience.” In essence, creating a culture of care within the school should not be superseded by the “hardening” of facilities and protocols. Students should feel safe in their daily lives knowing there are measures in place should a threat to their safety arise.

Finding the right balance between these two approaches is a delicate but important role superintendents play in local school safety efforts. This is not only crucial to the wellbeing of students and staff, but they are also important because safety is a vital prerequisite for educational success. Learn how superintendents contribute here.

A Better Way to Build: Design-Build Building Block

Submitted by William Black, Business Development Manager, Performance Services

Design-build projects will account for at least 47% of non-residential construction spending by 2026.

Design-build is growing in popularity across the U.S. for public owners as the process produces more efficient, cost-effective results. The design-build process is led by architects and engineers, streamlining the process by providing sole accountability while utilizing a design-to-budget approach to best meet owner objectives.

Click here to read more about why design-build works.

Administrator Spotlight: Stacey Southerland

Career & Technical Education Coordinator, DeQueen-Mena Education Service Co-op

Stacey Southerland, Career & Technical Education Coordinator at the DeQueen-Mena Education Service Cooperative, says she began her college education focused on becoming an educator, but was discouraged after an observation class at SAU. "All of my observations were in the elementary classroom and I knew that wasn’t for me," she says, "so I reverted to something I was familiar with and loved: agriculture." She spent several years working with her husband on their dairy, poultry and swine family farm, but after having her three children, she felt ready to begin her own career and her mind returned to teaching. "I began substituting at Foreman High School and knew that middle and high school was my passion. My Ag degree had a high number of hours in science which qualified me to teach general science and biology. I went through the non-traditional licensure program with the State Department of Education and added enough upper level math hours to have the approval to teach seventh and eighth grade math." While she was interested in career education, she wanted to teach at the district where her children attended, an opportunity that wasn’t available until 2010. She had the opportunity to apply for the family and consumer science position and spent five years in that position until the CTE Coordinator job opened beginning the 2014/2015 school year. She claims, "I am one of the fortunate people who can say, 'I love my job!' All of my experiences provided me with a background that was diverse to understand the needs of multiple pathways in career education while blending in the rigor of core academic skills."

Stacey says there are many things she loves about being a CTE Coordinator. "Promoting all areas of career and technical education and finding innovative opportunities for CTE teachers and students are the areas I am most passionate about," she states. She also enjoys the varied nature of the job. "One day I might be working with teachers, the next day on a student event or a variety of different things. I love the variety!" The most challenging part of her job is to stay ahead of the changes in education and to keep up with what industry needs educators to teach students. "The requirements within our education system can be challenging for teachers," she says. "While education changes within, it is often hard for us to make changes that industry needs. We often work within our own box and it’s difficult to find ways to help students acquire skills they need for life inside a box we can’t reshape."

Stacey says she would highly encourage anyone to have a career in CTE education, but also in education generally. "I have a very rewarding career and was motivated to do my best work in every job I've had," she states. "Of course, the day-to-day can get discouraging, but if you look at the big picture and the impact you make on the lives of others, teaching is a rewarding career. Every career has challenges, I love that education keeps you invested in youth and in our communities. I firmly believe that CTE education gives the opportunity for personal growth as well as professional growth. On top of that CTE education has some of the most passionate people I’ve had the pleasure to work with."

? ! Q&A

with Stacey Southerland

What is the best advice you have ever received?

“It’s OK to wear ugly shoes.” When I first started teaching, I did not know the hours that I would spend on my feet and going non-stop all day. In my job, I might be in a classroom, an Ag mechanic shop or a greenhouse all in one day, good shoes are a must!

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

I’m a cowgirl! I love to attend the National Chuckwagon Races held in Clinton, Ar. We spend the biggest part of Labor Day week horseback riding and watching the chuckwagon races.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

During my time off, I enjoy attending my grandchildren's events. My girls are softball players in the Hughes Springs, Texas area and play select and league ball. My grandsons live closer and they are cowboys. We attend their rodeo events and playdays. My youngest will soon be two. I don’t know what his main interest will be, but we will add him right into the schedule!

I’m a crafter, I enjoy projects on my embroidery and laser machines. I like hands-on projects! Other than that, I enjoy working in my yard and putting around my greenhouse. I am also an avid reader, I usually read a physical book at night and listen to one during drive time.

What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”

I have a couple of things on my bucket list. I have never been on a cruise. When you own a poultry farm, you don’t travel much! I would also like to do the horseback excursion at the Grand Canyon where you ride to the bottom, spend

What are the goals you are still working toward?

I am still adding to my professional portfolio. While my license has Curriculum Admin, I am still working on increasing the areas I am qualified to do. I have made some progress in working toward a District Administrator License. I also have an interest in becoming National Board Certified.

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

I have always been a promoter of professional organizations. Being a member of AAEA has certainly helped expand my leadership skills. Serving on the board of AACTEA has also given me the opportunity to represent CTE in Southwest Arkansas. It can be added work, but because of my involvement with AAEA I’ve served in several areas within the state working on policy in education. I do not think those opportunities would have been available to me, nor would I have the knowledge I needed for input, if I were not a part of the CTE organizations in Arkansas. The people I have met and had the opportunity to work with is another huge bonus to being in professional organizations. We have great folks in Arkansas.

JOIN US FOR THE 49TH ANNUAL AAEA SUMMER CONFERENCE!

The 2024 AAEA Summer Conference, The Future of Education: Adapting to a Changing Landscape, will be held on July 29-31, 2024 at the Statehouse Convention Center and Marriott Hotel in Little Rock, AR. The event 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 network and learn new and innovative ways to support our students!

GUEST SPEAKERS

Alex Kotran oversees strategy, partnerships, fundraising, and external relations for The AI Education Project (aiEDU). Prior to founding The AI Education Project, Alex built the AI Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility function for H5, Inc., a pioneering AI company in the legal services sector. At H5, Alex led strategic partnerships with organizations including the United Nations, NYU School of Law, the OECD, and IEEE to develop judicial education programs and high profile convenings.

Prior to his time in the social impact and non-profit space, Alex managed brand and policy communications for companies including Oracle, Airbnb, Nissan, HP, Adobe, and SAP. He was a lead Field Organizer in Columbus, Ohio, for the 2012 Obama Campaign and served as a Presidential Appointee under HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell, where he managed communications and community outreach for ACA Open Enrollment, two SCOTUS rulings, and the 2015 Ebola outbreak.

Dave Burgess is the New York Times Best-Selling author of Teach Like a PIRATE, co-author of P is for PIRATE, and the president of Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc. which delivers powerful, inspirational, and innovative books, keynotes, and professional development. He specializes in teaching hard-toreach, hard-to-motivate students with techniques that incorporate showmanship and creativity.

His presentations are a unique blend of outrageously energetic performance art and magic, mixed with an inspirational message of how and why to become more passionate in the classroom. All techniques and methods are modeled and fully explained so as to leave no doubt about how to apply the methods in the real-world. Participants will leave with a tool-box full of dynamic presentational ideas that they can immediately use to improve their lessons.

As president of Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc., Dave has disrupted the publishing industry by releasing over 175 ground-breaking titles from innovative educators from across the globe. He is the co-author of P is for PIRATE and the New York Times Best-Selling author of Teach Like a PIRATE, which has sparked an educational revolution all over the world.

Asked & Answered

Mike Mertens, AAEA Assistant Executive Director

I typically receive questions in the early spring regarding the start date of school and when spring break is scheduled for the next school year. Not as simple an answer as in past years since districts now have options in addition to a traditional school calendar.

Regarding the start date of school, ACA 6-10-106(a) states that each school year, the first day of the school year for student attendance in public elementary and secondary schools shall be: On or after the Monday of the week in which August 19 falls; not earlier than August 14; and not later than August 26. For the 2024-2025 school year, the earliest that schools on a traditional school calendar can start is Monday, August 19, unless they get a waiver from the State Board of Education or choose one of the other school calendar options allowed by law.

Regarding spring break for the 2024-2025 school year, ACA 6-10-106(d) states a public school district that provides a week-long holiday for spring break shall schedule the spring break holiday for five (5) consecutive school days beginning on the Monday of the 38th week of the school year. For the coming year, this week falls on March 23-29. Nothing in the law prevents a public school district from providing fewer than five (5) consecutive school days for the spring break holiday in order to comply with the student day requirement.

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

CoSN: Support for Technology Administrators

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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 Lana Webb, Administrative Specialist, at l.webb@theaaea.org or at 501-372-1691.

Job Openings

Alma School District

Stuttgart School District

Stuttgart School District

Helena-West Helena

Western Yell County School District

Fayetteville School District

Lamar School District

West Fork School District

Eureka Springs School District

Alma School District

Blevins School District

Ozark School District

Mena School District

North Little Rock School District

Pocahontas School District

Pocahontas School District

Assistant Principal 3-5

Assistant Principal Park Avenue (PK-4)

Assistant Principal-Secondary High School (9-12)

Elementary Assistant Principal

Elementary Principal, PK-6

McNair Middle School Assistant Principal

Middle School Principal

Superintendent of Schools

High School Principal

Assistant Principal 6-8

High School Principal

Junior High School Principal

Elementary Assistant Principal

Administrative Director of Information Technology

Assistant Principal

Junior High Principal

Job Openings, Continued

District Name Position

Little Rock School District Assistant Principal -WESTERN HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Mount Ida School District Mount Ida High School Principal

Siloam Springs School District Assistant Principal - Intermediate

Earle School District

SECONDARY PRINCIPAL

Gravette School District Superintendent of Schools

West Memphis School District Elementary Assistant Principal

West Memphis School District Bragg Elementary Principal

Magnolia School District Secondary Assistant Principal

Mountain View School District

Hampton School District

MVHS Assistant Principal

High School Principal

Bald Knob School District Assistant Elementary School Principal

Monticello School District Assistant Principal - Monticello High School

El Dorado School District

Green Forest School District

Benton School District

Benton School District

High School Assistant Principal

MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

24/25 SY Howard Perrin Elementary Principal

24/25 SY Benton High School Assistant Principal

Drew Central School District Elementary Principal

Arkadelphia School District Elementary Assistant Principal

Mammoth Springs School District K-12 Principal

Prairie Grove School District

Blytheville School District

Blytheville School District

Springdale School District

Gurdon School District

Hector School District

High School Principal

Blytheville High School Principal

Blytheville Middle School Principal

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal (k-12)

SUPERINTENDENT

Watson Chapel School District Assistant Principal

Christy Norwood Awards

Christy Norwood, Principal of Bernice Young Elementary School in the Springdale School District, was selected by the Arkansas Association of Elementary School Principals (AAESP) as the recipient of the 2024 Award for Service Above and Beyond. This award is sponsored by Lifetouch. Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director, presented Mrs. Norwood with the award in her district on April 5.

View photos and read the press release here!

Travis Barrentine

Travis Barrentine, Principal at Greenbrier High School in the Greenbrier School District, was recently named the Arkansas Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) Principal of the Year. Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director, presented Mr. Barrentine with the award at his school on April 11, 2024.

View photos and read the press release here!

Amanda Turner-Sanders

Amanda Turner-Sanders, Principal at Leadership Magnet School in the Jonesboro School District, was recently named the 2024 Arkansas Association of Elementary School Principals (AAESP) Principal of the Year. This award is sponsored by Curriculum Associates. Mike Mertens, AAEA Assistant Executive Director, and Lenett Thrasher, AAEA Director of Learning Services and Operations, along with Curriculum Associates Arkansas Sales Consultants, Harry Dickens and Alice Shirey, presented Mrs. Turner-Sanders with the award at her school on April 15.

View photos and read the press release here!

Molly Davis

Molly Davis, Principal at Elmwood Middle School in the Rogers School District, was recently named the Arkansas Association of Middle Level Administrators (AAMLA) Principal of the Year. This award is sponsored by Curriculum Associates. Mike Mertens, AAEA Assistant Executive Director, Lenett Thrasher, AAEA Director of Learning Services and Operations, and Jason Brunner, AAMLA President, along with Curriculum Associates Arkansas Sales Consultants, Harry Dickens and Alice Shirey, presented Mrs. Davis with the award at her school on April 16, 2024.

View photos and read the press release here!

Publication Sneak Peek: Our Two Cents

This segment features content from other AAEA publications. Our Two Cents is a monthly publication available to subscribing districts. The following excerpt comes from the April 2024 issue.

Department of Finance & Administration Revenue Report for March 2024

Bolstered by increased sales and use and individual income tax collections, the state’s general gross revenue collections in March increased by $21.3 million, (3.2%) over a year ago, to $688.8 million. March's collections also beat the state's general revenue forecast by $60.1 million (9.6%). Revenues were above the same time a year ago primarily due to higher sales tax and individual income tax collections. State officials remain optimistic concerning the Arkansas economy and revenue forecast with the last quarter of FY2024 remaining.

During the first nine months of FY2024, the state's total general revenue collections have declined by $91.7 million, or 1.5%, from the same period in fiscal 2023, but exceeded the state's latest forecast by $85.4 million, or 1.4%. The state's general revenue collections have slipped because of the state's individual and corporate income tax cuts and slowing general revenue collections in FY2024.

The state’s latest general revenue forecast, released February 1, projects a general revenue surplus of $240.5 million at the end of FY2024.

The Legislature convened in its fiscal session on April 10 to consider the Governor's proposed general revenue budget for FY2025. Governor Sanders has proposed a $109.3 million, or 1.76%, increase to $6.31 billion in the state's general revenue budget for FY2025, with a $65.7 million increase to $97.4 million for the state's Education Freedom Accounts to help students attend private school, parochial school or home school, and a $38.2 million increase to $2.48 billion for the public school fund.

Attorney General Opinion 2024-055

In Attorney General Opinion 2024-055 the AG was asked whether or not the Osceola School District’s decision to release certain records was consistent with the FOIA. The AG opined that the custodian’s decision to release a portion of records that have been provided to the AG was consistent with the FOIA. However, the AG did not opine on whether the custodian has properly classified the superintendent’s written response to the investigative findings as a job-performance record. If the superintendent’s response was not created at the behest of the employer, it should be classified as a personnel record. This opinion includes a detailed discussion on general disclosure rules, personnel records, and classification and disclosure of the investigative report.

Attorney General Opinion 2024-042

In Attorney General Opinion 2024-042 the AG was asked to respond to the following question. Act 237 of 2023 (the LEARNS Act) prohibits school districts from “adopt[ing] a personnel policy or incorporate[ing] terms into a personnel contract that provide more rights to personnel than those provided under state law….” LRSD’s personnel policy provides a hearing for “grievances,” which is defined broadly enough to include non-renewals of employee contracts. Does this policy improperly provide more rights than “those provided under state law”? The AG responded that the LRSD policy is generally consistent with state law, but it also contains some provisions that are inconsistent with state law. The latter provisions would provide more rights than those provided under state law, and therefore, are invalid. The full opinion provides a detailed rationale for the AG's ruling.

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