Administrator Spotlight

Kelsey Bailey

Chief Deputy Finance & Operations Officer, Little Rock School District

Kelsey Bailey, Chief Deputy Finance & Operations Officer for the Little Rock School District, says he discovered his interest in business and accounting in high school after taking an accounting class. "I was fascinated by how tracking revenues and expenses played such a vital role in any organization," he states. He began his career in education with roles in higher education: he served as Project Manager at UAMS, Payroll & Position Control Manager at the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, and Director of Financial Services at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He says, "Once I began working in higher education, I realized that an educational environment was where I wanted to spend my career — combining my passion for finance with a greater purpose of supporting student success." In April 2009, he joined the Little Rock School District as the Chief Financial Officer, transitioning later to his current role.

Kelsey says his favorite thing about his job is being able to help ensure students have the resources they need to succeed in the classroom, in their extracurricular activities, and ultimately in life after graduating. One of the major changes he's seen in education over his career is the increasing number of students coming to school with significant social and emotional challenges. At the same time, there’s been a decline in the number of people choosing to work in public education, making it more difficult to meet student needs. The most challenging part of his job is making major budget reductions. "Since personnel costs make up the largest portion of a school district's budget, these cuts often impact positions and that means some valued team members may lose their jobs. It's a difficult but sometimes necessary responsibility." To those considering the career, he says "it will be demanding at times but it will be very rewarding career, and you will make a difference in the lives of many students, educators, and other team members."

Kelsey believes his greatest professional accomplishment was helping lead the district through the reduction of over $50 million from their budget, a result of the loss of desegregation funding and significant enrollment declines. "Despite these challenges, we managed to navigate the process without falling into fiscal distress, which was a major achievement for the stability of our schools and community." For the future, he says, "My ongoing goal is to drive significant improvements in systems and processes that not only strengthen internal controls but also maximize value for the district. At the same time, I am committed to developing our team’s skills and leadership capacity to ensure we are prepared to meet future challenges and opportunities."

? Q&A ! with Kelsey Bailey

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I ever received came from my dad. He taught me to always work hard and give my best in everything I do whether it's work or play. He said, "People should know you were there!"

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

Other administrators might be surprised to know that I’m an avid hunter. enjoy hunting deer, ducks, rabbits, squirrels, doves, turkeys, and hogs. And honestly, I’d much rather be in shorts, a t-shirt, and Crocs than all dressed up!

What is the most daring thing you’ve done?

The most daring thing I’ve done was ziplining at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. It was an unforgettable experience soaring 130 feet above the ground, right over lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes!

What’s something that amazes you?

What amazes me most is the power of God and how personally He has guided and blessed me throughout my life. Looking back, I see so many moments where His presence gave me strength and direction, and I’m truly grateful.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

In my time off, I enjoy a variety of activities like hunting, fishing, traveling, grilling and cooking, tennis, playing pool, and coaching/watching my kids in sports. But most of all, I cherish spending quality time with family and friends.

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

One of the things on my bucket list is to travel to all seven continents. I love experiencing new cultures and landscapes, and I think it would be an incredible way to see the diversity of the world firsthand.

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

When people look back at my life, I want to be remembered as a loving father, husband, brother, uncle, friend, and colleague. Someone who cared deeply and genuinely helped others. To me, those personal connections and acts of kindness matter far more than any other accomplishments.

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

The biggest benefit of AAEA membership is the opportunity to network with educational, financial, and operational leaders from across the state. The organization also provides outstanding professional development through its conferences, as well as valuable support and resources to help us grow in our roles.