2024-2025 Calendar of Events AAEA Staff
Dr. Mike Hernandez
Executive Director m.hernandez@theaaea.org
Dr. Karla Neathery
Assistant Executive Director k.neathery@theaaea.org
Lenett Thrasher Assistant Executive Director 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
Mike Mertens Consultant m.mertens@theaaea.org
November
AACTEA Conference, November 7, 2024
Benton Event Center
January
Superintendent Symposium, January 8-9, 2025
Doubletree Little Rock
TEL-AR Conference, January 29-30, 2025 Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, North Little Rock
February
AASBO Conference, February 12-14, 2025
Hot Springs Convention Center
ArkASPA Spring Conference, February 25, 2025 Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, North Little Rock
March
AACIA Conference, March 13, 2025
Benton Event Center
April
CASBO Classes, April 23-24, 2025 Location TBD
CFD Classes, Date TBD Location TBD
May
ASBA/AAEA Joint Conference, May 6, 2025 Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, North Little Rock
AAFC Spring Conference, May 7-9, 2025
Hot Springs Convention Center
June
AASEA Conference, June 8-10, 2025
Benton Event Center
AAEA School Law and Finance Conference, Date TBD Location TBD
July
AAEA Summer Conference, July 28-30, 2025
Marriott Hotel & Statehouse Convention Center, Little Rock
For more information, visit theaaea.org/events.
2024-2025 AAEA Board of Directors
Stacy DeFoor AAEA President Assistant Superintendent, Benton
Kelvin Gragg AASA President AssistantPineSuperintendent, Bluff
Dr. Jeff Wasem AAESP President-Elect Principal, Bentonville
Brandie Williams ArkASPA President Superintendent, Trumann
Kelsey Bailey AASBO Past President Chief Financial Officer, Little Rock
Bryce Bennett AAMLA President Director of Academic Assessment Services, Conway
Dr. Mike Hernandez AAEA Executive Director
Charles Warren AAEA President-Elect Business Manager/District Treasurer, Fort Smith
Dr. Debbie Bruick-Jones AASA President-Elect Superintendent, Bentonville
Shawn Rose AAESP Past President Principal, Hillcrest
Kelli AACTEACypertPresident Career & Technical Administrator, ARESC
Haley Hatch AASEA President Director of Special Services, Lake Hamilton
Greg Collins ASPMA President (until Oct) Maintenance/Facilities Supervisor, Dover
Dr. Jason Reeves AAEA Secretary and AASSP President Assistant Principal, Alma
Dr. Jeremy Owoh AASA Secretary Superintendent, Jacksonville/ North Pulaski
Jason Selig AASSP President-Elect Principal, Lake Hamilton
Christine Harrell AAFC President Federal Programs Coordinator, Searcy
Dr. Marcia Smith AACIA President Deputy Superintendent, Springdale
Randall Bolinger ASPMA President (begin Oct) Maintenance/Facilities Supervisor, Siloam Springs
Brian Kirkendoll AAEA Past President Principal, Alma
Steven Helmick AAESP President Principal, Little Rock
Amy Marek AASSP Past President Principal, Hazen
Justin Robertson AASBO President Chief Financial Officer, Russellville
Valerie King AAGEA President Director of Gifted Programs, Siloam Springs
B.J. TEL-ARBurgessPresident Director of GreenbrierTechnology,
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
ClassWallet
Diamond (Continued)
ClearGov
Edmentum
Education Elements
Energy Systems Group
ESS
First Security Beardsley Goalbook
Imagine Learning
Imagine Learning Sonday System
Middleton, Inc.
OnToCollege
SmartData Dashboard
Stephens, Inc.
Stride Tutoring
Tanium
White River Services and Solutions
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.
Phoenix Contractors
Platinum (Continued)
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
Paragon Architecture
Pearson Virtual Schools
Red Comet
TIPS - The Interlocal Purchasing System
Silver Adleta
American Bus Sales, Inc.
Correll, Inc.
French Architects, PA
My Benefits Channel
SEAS
Strategos Group
Varsity Tutors for Schools
Executive Viewpoint
Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director
DOING IT ALL FOR OUR BABIES!
How many of you are singing the Huey Lewis song in your head right now? Ha! I realize that educators have been through a whirlwind of changes over the past few years and are becoming accustomed to a new assessment system. Challenges are nothing new to us, but it can be overwhelming. You may be asking yourself, “Why do I keep doing this?” The short answer is because the students need you! Administrators play a crucial role in shaping educational outcomes and creating environments that help our students learn. You face the complex task of managing the needs of students, teachers, and parents while navigating new laws and rules, financial constraints, and evolving educational environments. We must keep our heads up and focus on the task at hand. As we move into the holiday season, let's be thankful for the superpowers we have been blessed with.
Ability to Stretch Limited Resources
Administrators must fund infrastructure, technology, curriculum materials, extracurricular programs, and support services, all while maintaining competitive teacher salaries. I am thankful that we can balance between the demands for high-quality education and limited funding from state and federal sources. I am also thankful that we can make difficult decisions about what to prioritize within limited budgets, compromise between various needs and put out a quality educational program for our community.
Skill to Support a Diverse Student Population
We can create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds, abilities, and needs. I am thankful we can accommodate students with disabilities, English language learners, students facing socioeconomic challenges, and those who need mental health support. We strive to comply with legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Meeting these requirements can be challenging, especially with limited resources and time, but I am thankful we make it a priority and create an environment where all students feel valued.
Artful in Recruiting and Retaining Teachers and Staff
We understand that teachers are the cornerstone of any educational institution, and maintaining a strong team requires competitive salaries, professional development, and a supportive work environment. I am thankful that budget constraints and a heavy workload do not deter our efforts to offer attractive conditions to curb turnover rates. I am grateful that we have found a way to fill teaching positions, particularly in high-demand subjects like STEM and special education. And when we can’t find that substitute or bus driver, we roll up our sleeves and do it ourselves. I am thankful for our ability to boost staff morale and build deep relationships with our educators.
A Knack for Navigating Policy Changes and Reforms
Even though our policies are constantly evolving, we are quick to implement new policies, adopt new assessment systems, and comply with various regulations. I am thankful for our careful planning and adjustment to whatever comes our way. Administrators can stay up-to-date with policy changes and deal with pressure to improve test scores and meet certain metrics while supporting social-emotional learning and critical thinking skills.
Masterful in Community Engagement and Communication
We are liaisons between the school and the broader community, including parents, local businesses, and government agencies. I am thankful for our effective communication to keep parents informed, fostering trust, and ensuring community support for school initiatives. All this while each patron has unique concerns, perspectives, and expectations. Administrators can communicate clearly and transparently to build trust.
Steadfast for Physical and Emotional Safety
We have made school safety a paramount concern and have implemented measures that protect students and staff from both physical threats and emotional harm. I am thankful for all our safety protocols, emergency preparedness drills, and enforcement of anti-bullying policies that are in place across Arkansas. We have done this with strong leadership, well-trained staff, and clear policies. I am thankful we fortified the school environment all while creating a welcoming atmosphere that does not feel restrictive or intimidating.
What we do is a multifaceted role that requires a balance of vision, practical management skills, and compassion. The challenges you face every day are complex and interconnected. Your superpowers do not go unnoticed. I am thankful for the strong leadership, strategic decision-making, and commitment to student-centered values we have in this state. I am confident that we will continue to address these challenges and help each other create educational environments that promote learning, growth, and well-being for all our babies. Thank you for all you do! We are here for you.
CoSN: Support for Technology Administrators
President’s Perspective
Stacy DeFoor, AAEA Board President
BECOMING A DATA DETECTIVE
Greetings AAEA Members,
Now that most of you have completed the first nine weeks of school, I hope that you have made plans to become data detectives for your building or district. I’m quite sure you’ve experienced some hurdles as you have navigated the new ATLAS testing platform, screeners, testlets, and interim assessments. One thing that I learned while working within the corporate world and the past 18 years in education is that most new initiatives require work we didn’t expect and have time constraints that are already tight, but they usually provide us with an opportunity to better serve our students once the kinks are worked out. A previous superintendent once said, “Calm captains make for calm seas.” As leaders we must maintain high levels of calmness even when things get tough or don’t go as expected. As you begin to plan data meetings, don’t focus on only one assessment to make decisions. Teachers often have valuable data from daily instruction, anecdotal notes, behavioral observations, etc. for your committees or RTI teams to consider as they determine how to best support your student population. Here are some effective ways educational leaders can use data to serve students:
• Identify Learning Gaps: Analyze student performance data to pinpoint areas where students struggle and tailor interventions accordingly.
• Track Progress: Use formative assessments to monitor student progress over time and adjust instructional strategies as needed.
• Personalize Learning: Leverage data to create individualized learning plans that cater to the unique needs and strengths of each student.
• Evaluate Programs: Assess the effectiveness of educational programs and interventions using outcome data to inform decisions about resource allocation.
• Inform Professional Development: Analyze teacher performance data to identify areas for professional growth and provide targeted training opportunities.
• Support Equity Initiatives: Monitor data related to student demographics to identify and address disparities in achievement and access to resources.
• Facilitate Data-Driven Decision Making: Create a culture that values data-informed practices among educators for continuous improvement.
• Implement Predictive Analytics: Use data analytics to forecast student outcomes and intervene early for those at risk of falling behind.
By leveraging these strategies, we can create a more responsive and effective learning environment for all students. It’s difficult to believe that Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away. I hope that you plan to take advantage of this opportunity to relax, recharge your batteries, and spend time with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving and thank you for what you do each and every day!
Asked & Answered
Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Assistant Executive Director
Question: My district receives Enhanced Student Achievement (ESA) matching funds and had a carry over from the previous year. Can we use the enhanced student achievement fund balance this year?
Yes, you can use the Enhanced Student Achievement (ESA) fund balance this year. 6-20-2305
(ii) A school district that on June 30 of any year has an enhanced student achievement funding balance in excess of fifteen percent (15%) of the school district’s current year enhanced student achievement funding allocation shall reduce its total enhanced student achievement funding balance by at least ten percent (10%) in each year that follows so that by June 30 of each year, the school district has a balance of no more than fifteen percent (15%) of the school district current year enhanced student achievement funding allocation.(b) If a school district fails to comply with the requirements of this subdivision (b)(4)(E) during a school year, the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education may in the following school year withhold from that school district's national school lunch state categorical funding allocation an amount equal to the amount required to be spent by the school district in order to be in compliance with the requirements of this subdivision (b)(4)(E).
If you have questions for Dr. Neathery, email her at k.neathery@theaaea.org .
Understanding Food Insecurity in Schools Safety & Wellness Segment
Submitted by Barbara Grimm, Founder and President of School Responder, and C.J. Huff, Ed.D.
Food insecurity is a growing concern in educational settings, affecting students' ability to learn and thrive. It refers to the lack of consistent access to enough nutritious food, and it can have serious consequences for a child’s physical and mental development. In the classroom, students facing food insecurity may struggle with concentration, lower academic performance, and increased absenteeism. Addressing this issue is crucial to fostering an environment where every student can succeed.
Schools play a critical role in combatting food insecurity. Many have established free or reduced-price lunch programs to ensure students receive at least one balanced meal during the school day. Additionally, initiatives such as school-based food pantries and backpack programs, which send students home with food for the weekend, have become vital resources. These programs not only provide nourishment but also offer a sense of security for students and their families.
Beyond immediate hunger relief, schools can collaborate with local organizations and government agencies to tackle the root causes of food insecurity. This includes connecting families to long-term support, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and community food banks. Educators and staff also play an important role by identifying signs of food insecurity and ensuring students receive the assistance they need to succeed both academically and personally. Learn more about finding food resources here.
Administrator Spotlight: Dr. Marcia Smith
Deputy Superintendent, Springdale School District
"My grandmother sparked both my sister’s and my passion for learning," says Dr. Marcia Smith, Deputy Superintendent for Springdale Public Schools. "Because of my grandmother’s love for learning, my sister and I are both educators. Her wisdom ignited a curiosity within us that fueled a desire to inspire others the way she inspired us." Dr. Smith started her educational career as an instructional reading assistant at Siloam Springs Junior High School while attending college. After completing her degree at John Brown University, she taught math at Southwest Junior High and Springdale High School, serving as department chair and then as an assistant principal. "I was principal at George Junior High School, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Teaching and Learning, and Associate Superintendent before my current position as Deputy Superintendent of Springdale Public Schools," she says. She was also previously an adjunct professor at Northwest Arkansas Community College and is now an adjunct professor at the University of Arkansas.
Dr. Smith says one of the best aspects of her job is "working with a team of dedicated educators passionate about teaching and learning, resulting in students' growth and success." She says she loves seeing expertly executed lessons where all students know what they are learning and are engaged at high levels. The most challenging part of her job is balancing the need to be present and engaged in the schools with the administrative duties and responsibilities that require focused time and attention. "When Dr. Rollins hired me as assistant superintendent, he shared that a critical challenge in leading a large and diverse school district is ensuring that no one feels overlooked, whether student, teacher, or community member. This has become my primary focus - to develop strategies and systems to proactively identify and address the unique needs of all stakeholders so that everyone in the district feels seen, heard, and supported."
Dr. Smith believes anyone considering being a district administrator should know that it is essential to understand that the role is satisfying and incredibly demanding. "It can be a fulfilling career path if you are passionate about education and ready to lead. If this is your goal, make sure you love learning and have a crystal clear focus on student success. These two things go hand in hand and should be the guiding principle in all aspects of school and district administration." She says when it comes to educational progress, the phrase 'the more things change, the more they stay the same' applies, stating "Despite circumstances, outcomes, technologies, and fundamental elements, we always circle back to the foundation of our 'why'—student growth and success."
with Dr. Marcia Smith ? ! Q&A
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I ever received was from my grandmother, who said, “Honesty and integrity should always be your moral compass.” Her wisdom has proven invaluable, reminding me that my character is my most important achievement.
What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?
When I was 13 and living in California, I took calligraphy classes. Calligraphy became a passion of mine, and when I turned fifteen, I worked for a major bank in California doing calligraphy.
What do you enjoy doing during your time
When I want to unwind, there is nothing like relaxing by the pool with my husband, Brent. I also enjoy visiting out-of-state family and seldom miss a ‘Girls Night Out’ with my dear friends. And, as crazy as most find this, I enjoy working out and exercising.
What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”
One thing on my bucket list is to visit Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, a place of deep personal significance to my family. My grandfather was stationed there during WWII with my grandmother and father. They have shared many meaningful experiences, which makes me want to connect to their past and honor their struggles.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would you be doing?
If I weren't in my current role, I would be teaching math. Outside of education, I would work as a fitness instructor. I taught ZUMBA and truly enjoyed it. While I regularly attend Burn Boot Camp with my workout partner, Kendra Clay, leading a class requires more time than I can commit to now.
What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?
The benefits of AAEA membership are numerous, but the biggest is the ability to network with other administrators. The job can be daunting, and this collaborative effort greatly reduces the workload. Connecting with fellow administrators enables us to share ideas, best practices, and resources, fostering a supportive community where we can work together effectively.
Character Connection
Better Together: Team Success Starts Here
Submitted by Capturing Kids’ Hearts
One of the most important things we can do as school leaders is to lower stress in our schools so that teachers and staff feel comfortable, connected, and capable. As we head into the busy holiday season, it’s a great time to recognize success, focus on collaboration, and uplift your team through practical actions.
Start With the Positive: Try starting each meeting by sharing good news with your team! Spend three to five minutes spotlighting staff members, asking questions to show authentic interest, and applauding each response. It’s a simple but effective way to build a sense of community.
Strategize Team Affirmations: Celebrate what is going well on your campus by intentionally planning ways to affirm your team. This could look like grabbing a staff member's favorite snack or drink and giving it to them with personal recognition in front of their class or team. Set aside time weekly to write or deliver genuine, specific affirmations. Everyone needs to feel seen and valued!
Ask for Feedback: Empower your staff by asking for their feedback. Incorporating activities that allow your team to express their thoughts helps you identify what’s working and what should grow. Here is a great question to start the conversation: “In what ways would you like to be empowered or grown over the rest of this school year?”
These ideas can help you fine-tune your leadership and build a more collaborative campus plan. Leadership thrives when we work together and recognize the wins along the way. Let’s finish 2024 by building each other up well!
To learn more about how your team can use the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® Process to build stronger connections, visit ckh.org.
Building Block
Construction Manager At-Risk VS Design-Build
Submitted
by Will
Black, Business Development Manager, Performance Services
Arkansas schools have design and construction procurement options. These delivery methods range from low bid (Design-Bid-Build or Plan/Spec) to best value (Design-Build) or fall somewhere in between (Construction Manager At-Risk).
Evaluate these three important considerations before selecting a method for your next building project:
• Budget Constraints
• Fixed Move-in Schedules
• Owner Risk Tolerance
Click here to learn more.
Publication 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 September 2024 issue.
someone who has great insight into the future of teaching and learning. It was at this conference that I heard such a person. She was a seasoned and wise educator. The 45 or so years of educational experience came through in her talk. I don’t recall everything that was said, but the crux of her session was that sometime soon technology would have the opportunity to truly transform education. Then came those four words that grabbed our attention and made us laugh. She scanned the room, locking eyes with each of us, before boldly proclaiming, "The robots are coming!"
Her antics and words did their job! She created laughter, wonder, and discussion among the
advancement of AI, the current capabilities of AI, and envisioning the near-term possibilities of AI, it doesn’t take a prophet to see the massive positive potential artificial intelligence has for education and, more importantly, the students we serve. The key word above is “potential.” AI’s capabilities are no longer in question; we all recognize them. The real challenge now is transforming that potential into reality. I believe the answer to the question of how we meet that challenge lies in all of us. Realizing the full benefits of AI for our students requires not just planning but urgent, coordinated action from all of us—educators, leaders, and policymakers alike. As Todd Whitaker quipped many years ago in his book, What Great
Teachers Do Differently, it’s people, not programs, that ultimately
Interested in more from Instructional Leader? Contact our office at 501-372-1691.
The AAEA Job Board is a calendar-year subscription that assists districts with the everincreasing challenge of recruiting quality staff. It is a significant resource for educators, both in-state and out-of-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
Academics Plus Charter School Technology Director
Lonoke School District Director of Technology
Gentry School District Primary School Principal
Lake Hamilton School District Superintendent
