To celebrate the AAEA’s 50th anniversary, we’ve interviewed some of the greatest leaders in Arkansas education over the years. This month’s Legacy Leader is Dr. Richard Abernathy.
Dr. Mike Hernandez reflects on the efforts involved in wrapping up the school year.
In the Spotlight this month is Amy Robson, Federal Programs Coordinator for the Flippin Public School
Stacy DeFoor gives tips on closing out this year while planning for the next.
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
AAEA School Law and Finance Conference, June 3, 2025
Cabot Community Center/Cabot School District
AASEA Conference, June 9-10, 2025
Benton Event Center
ASPMA Custodial Conference, June 12, 2025
Lake Hamilton School District
July
CASBO Classes, July 8-9, 2025
Benton Event Center
CFD Classes, July 24, 2025
Trane Fort Smith
AAEA Summer Conference, July 28-30, 2025
Marriott Hotel & Statehouse Convention Center, Little Rock
September
AAFC Fall Conference, September 17-19, 2025
Hot Springs Convention Center
ASPMA Conference, September 29-October 1, 2025
Hot Springs Convention Center
November
AAEA Fall Conference, November 13, 2025
Benton Event Center
For more information, visit theaaea.org/events.
Stacy DeFoor
2024-2025 AAEA Board of Directors
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,
2025 AAEA Corporate Sponsors
Presidential
American Fidelity Assurance Co.
Bailey Education Group
Curriculum Associates
Educational Benefits
Lifetouch National School Studios
NIET - National Institute for Excellence in Teaching Solution Tree
Prestigious Cognia
Renaissance Learning
Stephens
Distinguished Apptegy
Capturing Kids’ Hearts
Coryell Roofing and Construction
Lexia Learning
The Kirkland Group
Diamond
Amazon Business
Baldwin & Shell
First Security Beardsley
Imagine Learning
OnToCollege
Phoenix Contractors
Platinum
AAMSCO
Architecture Plus
Arkansas Public Safety Solutions
C.R. Crawford Construction
Energy Systems Group
ESS
Hight Jackson Associates PA
HMH | NWEA
Just Right Reader
Legacy Construction Management
Nabholz | Entegrity Energy Partners
Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects
Powers of Arkansas
Progressive Technologies
Pro Service Builders
TRANE
Gold
CDI Contractors
Cromwell Architects Engineers
Cynergy Rehab Group Goalbook
IXL Learning
Kinco Constructors
Middleton Heat and Air
Paragon Architecture
Red Comet
TIPS The Interlocal Purchasing System
White River Services and Solutions
Silver
American Bus Sales
Correll
French Architects, PA
K12 Tutoring
My Benefits Channel
SEAS
SmartData All-In-One
Strategos Group
Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director
YEAR-END CELEBRATIONS: REMEMBER TO CELEBRATE
YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
TOO!
We are in the final stretch of the 2024-2025 school year. Anytime there is a Regular Legislative Session during the school year, it can add some additional weight to the minds of school leaders. This session is no different. Of all the bills we tracked, 146 of those became Acts. We appreciate the 95th General Assembly for taking on difficult education issues and their willingness to listen to educators as they develop policy. We may not always agree with everything, but elected officials listening to all sides before the final decision is made is appreciated. Regardless of how things evolve in education, one constant remains: the indispensable role of school leaders. You are often the quiet engine behind the scenes that ensures that students and staff are thriving. You are the architects of safe, supportive, and inspiring environments.
As we near the end of the school year, leaders must take in all the policy changes and student data to chart a path forward. You will be adapting to new educational standards, new technology, new accountability measures, new governance policies, and a host of other items. All the while, you will respond to the needs of students, staff, and the greater community. Leaders must face these challenges with resilience and foresight. It is time to take all this in and begin to cast a vision for your schools of what the future will look like and motivate them one more time to make the most of the opportunities afforded them. I know that some things have a level of uncertainty, but I am confident that there will be many steady hands guiding schools with compassion and clarity. Our state does not need you to just manage change, but transform it into opportunity.
I know many of your hearts. There is an understanding that community and relationships are what make a school really click. Reflect on all the things you have done this year to create this strong sense of community. What new policies, support systems, and culture did you create that ensured that everyone was seen and valued? What emphasis did you place on academic excellence? What emphasis did you place on the emotional well-being of students and staff? I know you worked tirelessly to support both. Did you leave anything on the table? I am certain that you had a vision going into the 2024-2025 school year that you were going to be a champion for innovation, empower teachers to try new strategies with their HQIMs, and inspire the curiosity of students. Are you eager to see the results of this work? I am!
Your success is measured not by accolades, but by the success of others. A test score does not define your work as a leader, but it is a small piece that tells the story over time. This includes decades of service and countless students and staff. The success and celebration will come when the students become adults and contribute to our great society. I know many of you see your accomplishments in the eyes of a former student who joins your ranks, runs for office, builds your house, takes care of your
ailments, etc. Take pride in the achievements of your students, the growth of your teachers, and the strength of your community. Your legacy is written in every diploma earned, every barrier broken, and every life you touched, a bestowed great education.
It is the pleasure of my lifetime to serve you all. To all my fellow school administrators: Thank you! Thank you for your long hours going to ballgames and board meetings, your steadfast dedication to doing it the right way, and your unwavering belief in the power of education. Your leadership matters more than my bumbling attempt at words can fully express. Not only are you leading schools, but you are shaping our futures. Please do not take this lightly.
As we move forward in completing the school year, know that your work is seen, your efforts are appreciated, and your influence will echo in time. You are the heartbeat of your great school, and thank you for making a difference in the lives of our Arkansas students.
CoSN: Support for Technology Administrators
CoSN is a great resource for school technology administrators. Check this page monthly for links to articles to assist technology leaders as they navigate through digital learning transformations.
President’s Perspective
Stacy DeFoor, AAEA Board President
FINISHING STRONG AND LOOKING AHEAD
As we approach the final stretch of the academic year, we are charged with balancing the dual responsibilities of closing out the spring semester and setting the stage for a successful year ahead. May is a time of celebration—honoring student achievements, recognizing the tireless work of teachers and staff, and reflecting on the progress made throughout the year. It’s also a crucial time for leadership to set a positive tone, ensuring that the last few weeks are purposeful, productive, and anchored in a strong finish.
Now is the perfect moment to prioritize connection. Whether it’s through student celebrations, staff appreciation events, or open communication with families, finishing the year with a strong sense of community reinforces trust and morale. Leaders can model gratitude and resilience by publicly acknowledging efforts, addressing challenges with transparency, and emphasizing the importance of every role in the success of the school. A positive, united close to the year helps everyone carry momentum into the summer.
At the same time, May is ideal for laying the groundwork for summer planning. Begin with reflective conversations: What worked well this year? What can be improved? Use both data and feedback from staff, students, and families to shape your vision. Start early in identifying professional development opportunities, curriculum updates, and strategic initiatives. Whether it’s tackling challenges from our ATLAS assessment data, strengthening school culture, or refining instructional practices, intentional planning now leads to smoother implementation in August.
As we wrap up the school year, take time to recharge and refocus—but don’t lose sight of your leadership impact. Arkansas schools thrive when leaders are present, proactive, and purpose-driven. Let’s finish strong, celebrate well, and step into summer with clarity and intention. Our schools—and our students—deserve nothing less.
If you don’t have it on your calendar, our AAEA summer conference is July 28th-30th. There will be fantastic keynote speakers as well as a variety of breakout sessions to enhance your knowledge and skills. Registration is open!
Asked & Answered
Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Assistant Executive Director
Can our district accept Public School Choice applications through June 1, 2025?
No. In accordance with Arkansas Code § 6-18-1905, the Public School Choice application window for the 2025-2026 school year opened on January 1, 2025, and will close on May 1, 2025. Each school district is required to have a policy outlining the acceptable methods for submitting school choice applications. Applicants must submit their school choice applications to both the nonresident district and the student’s resident district. Applications must be delivered or postmarked no later than May 1, 2025, for students seeking a transfer this spring or fall semester in the nonresident district.
For additional information on School Choice see COM-25-063.
If you have questions for Dr. Neathery, email her at k.neathery@theaaea.org .
Instructional Insights
What’s Working in Arkansas? Q&A on Growing Teacher Leaders
Featuring insights from Stephen Prince
Submitted by the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching
Stephen Prince is a longtime Arkansas educator and NIET Fellow serving as Master Teacher at Cross County High School. With 18 years of experience in both classrooms and administration, Prince is deeply involved in advancing teacher leadership and instructional quality. In this Q&A, he shares how NIET’s partnership helped drive growth and strengthen teaching across districts in the state.
How does teacher leadership contribute to success in Arkansas schools?
Teacher leaders serve as a vital bridge between administrators and classroom teachers to improve instructional practices across systems and build educator capacity. They offer hands-on support, model lessons, and help all teachers reflect on their practice. The key is relationship-building and strength-based coaching, while helping teachers grow without feeling evaluated. Teacher leaders also observe collaboration, which helps them tailor support and improve instruction school-wide.
How has NIET shaped your approach to instructional leadership?
NIET has been instrumental in our growth at Cross County School. Before the partnership, we lacked a clear, evidence-based support system. The TAP System core training strengthened our leadership teams and equipped us to best support teachers, which led to real progress. When I became principal at Cross County High School, we were a D-rated school. Through NIET’s support and our use of their resources, we steadily improved and reached a B-score rating. That growth reflects the power of strong systems and consistent coaching.
What’s one key element NIET offers to Arkansas partners that’s made a difference?
The NIET instructional rubric. It defines what great teaching looks like and serves as a foundation for professional learning. That structure helps bring cohesion and unity to all levels of educators and administrators in a school. Based on my experience as an educator in Arkansas, schools that implement it with fidelity are better positioned to see gains in teacher and student outcomes.
Administrator Spotlight: Amy Robson
Federal Programs Coordinator, Flippin Public School District
Amy Robson, Federal Programs Coordinator for the Flippin School District, is a fourth-generation teacher in her family, but she did not pursue a career in teaching in the beginning. "I started out developing programs for children outside of the school day. I was always drawn to helping those students that needed the most support and later transitioned to mental health services in schools. I worked for a community mental health center and managed wraparound services for our fivecounty area." She met her husband while providing mental health services at Flippin School District, and later decided to become a teacher while expecting their child, endeavoring to be a mom and still have a positive impact on young people in her community. She first taught Middle School Business Education and then moved to Federal Programs, all within the Flippin School District.
Amy finds Federal Programs is "like a giant puzzle with the goal of fitting the pieces together to provide what is best for kids based on relevant data and individual strengths. I love it when people identify needs across the district and challenge me with finding ways to make it a reality." As a non-traditional educator, she believes her background in mental health and community program administration has added to her classroom perspective on how to meet the needs of students. While she misses being in the classroom and getting to work individually with students, she remains passionate about meeting student needs, seeking out time to write extra grants that support subsistence necessities and programs for students that go beyond regular school programming. Amy feels her greatest professional accomplishment has been using grants to develop a Student Support Office that offers services and supports for students identified as experiencing homelessness as well as others in need. These supports include food, clothing, counseling services, medical/dental care and ensuring full participation in school extracurricular activities. In recognition of her work, she recently received a State Leadership Award for Arkansas from the National Association of Federal Education Program Administrators.
Amy says the most challenging part of her job is not having enough hours in the day to accomplish all the goals she sets for herself. "Sometimes compliance is not the most fun. I try to make sure the individuals I work with feel supported and have what they need to do their jobs." She says those considering a career in Federal Programs should know that it is very different from being in the classroom. "If you can stay organized and be willing to adapt to a changing environment, you will be successful. Don’t be scared to write for a challenging grant. You may just surprise yourself."
with Amy Robson ? ! Q&A
What is the best advice you have ever received?
All things work together for good to the children of God. To those called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?
I am a farmer’s daughter; I love raising chickens and running the head shoot on family cow working days. I don’t mind picking up rocks and clearing brush, especially if it ends with a bonfire. Time spent at our family farm with my parents is precious to me. My husband and I are working to instill in our 10-year-old the love of being outside and the value of hard work.
What do you enjoy doing during your time off?
Gardening, baking quiche and cinnamon rolls, reading past my bedtime, walking our German Shephard, kayaking at the river, and spending time with my family.
What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”
I would love to travel to New Zealand where my husband’s family originates to meet family members and explore the islands.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would you be doing?
Full time cow rancher.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I hope to be a successful Federal Programs Coordinator at Flippin School District while having managed to find the perfect work life balance.
What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?
Being a member of AAEA and AAFC has allowed me to collaborate with other administrators across the state and support those new to federal programs while still learning from my peers and mentors. My membership allows me to stay informed with happenings at the state and federal levels. Region 9’s Federal Coordinator group is strong and always supports one another. I serve as the Secretary on the AAFC state board and enjoy working to contribute to our membership.
DR. RICHARD ABERNATHY
Leading up to the 50th anniversary of the AAEA Summer Conference, which will take place on July 28-30, 2025, at the Statehouse Convention Center and Marriott Hotel, we are interviewing some of the greatest Arkansas education leaders over the past several decades. Our third interview features Dr. Richard Abernathy, former AAEA Executive Director and district superintendent.
Dr. Richard Abernathy’s career began as an algebra and geometry teacher and a football and basketball coach in the Alma School District. His first administrative position was as a high school principal in Lavaca before moving to Clarksville as the high school principal. Soon after, the Ozark School District hired Dr. Abernathy as an assistant superintendent and athletic director. His first superintendent role was in the Paris School District, where he served three years. He then moved to the Bryant School District as superintendent for seven years. After his work in these districts, Dr. Abernathy was named AAEA Executive Director.
When asked what role AAEA played in supporting him as an administrator, Dr. Abernathy responded that all administrative roles involve issues, and AAEA helps you to resolve these problems. He added that the AAEA brings people together and allows you to build networks with others who serve in the same role to problem-solve together. Dr. Abernathy found his network of superintendents most helpful when he faced the greatest tragedy in his career, when a student was hit by a car after exiting the school bus. His superintendent friends shared similar experiences and helped him through this time.
The greatest change Dr. Abernathy has seen in his career is the use of technology. The positive aspects being easier scheduling, the opportunity to meet virtually, and the curriculum options technology provides. However, with the positive come the negative impacts, such as the use of social media and the issues this can cause in schools.
When asked how AAEA has impacted his leadership, Dr. Abernathy said AAEA was a central part of his career. His dad, Mr. Bill Abernathy, also a former superintendent, helped to start the AAEA 50 years ago. Dr. Abernathy recalls that each Wednesday, administrators would meet at what is now known as the Wyndham to discuss education policy. He said it was standing room only. The following day, those same superintendents would be at the Capitol talking to education committees about their stance on a bill. As the AAEA Executive Director, he tried to emulate this same pattern, leading the association to serve as the voice for administrators.
Dr. Abernathy emphasized that current leaders need to build their networks. Through his work at the AAEA, he helped to start mentoring programs to provide support for new leaders. Leadership training programs through the AAEA specialize in supporting those in an administrative role so they can voice the problems they are facing. He emphasized that the greatest benefit of the association is bringing people together with a common need in a safe environment.
After his 30+ year career in education, Dr. Abernathy states, “There are no greater people than those who dedicate their lives helping students, helping schools, and building leadership.” His dad, Bill Abernathy, told him shortly before he passed away that he wished he had taken time to do the things he loved before he got to the age where he couldn’t any longer. Reflection on that statement caused Dr. Abernathy to retire more quickly than he had originally planned.
Dr. Abernathy wouldn’t change anything about his education career, but he loves his work with Coryell Roofing as well as traveling with his wife, Paula, and their grandkids. His hobbies include hiking, kayaking, fishing, and getting to see grandkids whenever he wants. Richard and Paula have two children, Tyson Abernathy who is married to Heather, and London Creel who is married to Josh. They have four grandchildren: Saylor, Lakelynn, Fisher, and Ranger.
Click here to watch Dr. Abernathy’s full interview and learn more about this Legacy Leader.
PART 3: THE MILESTONE YEARS
Join Mike Mertens for a historic review of the AAEA from founding to today in this monthly Youtube series. Watch Part 3: The Milestone Years.
Also, be sure to visit the AAEA Photo Archive to view photos of AAEA over the past 5 decades!
REGISTER NOW!
Come help us celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the AAEA Summer Conference! The 2025 AAEA Summer Conference will be held on July 28-30, 2025, 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 learn, network, and celebrate with those who love public education!
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
DR. TODD WHITAKER JACK BERCKEMEYER
Publication Sneak Peek: School Law Review
This segment features content from other AAEA publications. School Law Review is a quarterly publication available to subscribing districts. The following excerpt comes from the March 2025 issue.
RECENT COURT CASES: FIRST & FOURTH AMENDMENTS
Moms for Liberty v. Brevard Pub. Schs., U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit (Oct. 8, 2024)
A non-profit organization and three parents sued the district on grounds of First Amendment retaliation based on the school board’s repeated interruptions, silencing, and even removal of parents from meetings when they attempted to voice their concerns about school policies, curricula, or leadership when addressing the board during its public comment period. In one instance, the board interrupted a parent and prevented her from reading an excerpt from a book available in an elementary school library, ironically deeming the language too “obscene” to be read aloud. The board also silenced other parents for directing comments to specific board members or using innocuous phrases the board considered “abusive,” such as referring to the “liberal left.”
On appeal, the circuit court found that multiple board policies restricting speech at meetings violated the First Amendment rights of parents and community members, stating that the “government has relatively broad power to restrict speech in limited public forums – but that power is not unlimited. Speech restrictions must still be reasonable, viewpoint-neutral, and clear
enough to give speakers notice of what speech is permissible. The Board’s policies for public participation at Board meetings did not live up to those standards.”
L.H. V. Indep. Sch. Dist., U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit (Aug. 2, 2024)
The parents of a student filed suit against the district alleging that their rights under the First Amendment and the 14th Amendment were violated when the district implemented its policy removing material in the school library after receiving a challenge to that material, pending a formal review process.
The lower court dismissed the claim and the circuit court affirmed, finding that the parents’ claims did not identify any conduct in which their child intended to engage that was arguably proscribed by the automaticremoval policy, and the parents failed to satisfy the requirements of pre-enforcement review, as they did not show circumstances that rendered the threatened enforcement sufficiently imminent.
Interested in more from School Law Review? Contact our office at 501-372-1691.
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 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
District Name
Smackover-Norphlet School District
Jacksonville North Pulaski School District
Blytheville School District
Western Yell County School District
England School District
Ashdown School District
Mayflower School District
Mayflower School District
Camden Fairview School District
Berryville School District
Siloam Springs School District
Position
Elementary Principal
High School Principal
Superintendent
Elementary Principal
Superintendent
Elementary Principal
High School Assistant Principal
Elementary Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal
High School Assistant Principal
High School Assistant Principal
Lonoke School District Superintendent
Concord School District Superintendent
South Side Bee Branch School District
Ozark Mountain School District
Malvern School District
Bentonville School District
Barton School District
Heber Springs School District
Jessieville School District
Monticello School District
Highland School District
High School Principal
Superintendent
Elementary Principal
High School Principal
High School Principal
Superintendent
Elementary Principal
Elementary Principal
Middle School Principal
Jonathon Guthrie AWARDS
Dr.
2025 AASSP Principal of the Year
Dr. Jonathon Guthrie, Principal at Bentonville West High School in the Bentonville School District, was recently named the Arkansas Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) Principal of the Year. This award is sponsored by Lifetouch. Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Assistant Executive Director; Dr. Jason Reeves, AASSP Board President; and members of Lifetouch presented Dr. Guthrie with the award at his school on April 4, 2025. Congratulations, Dr. Guthrie!
David McClure
2025 AAMLA
Principal of the Year
David McClure, Principal at Woodland Junior High School in the Fayetteville School District, was recently named the Arkansas Association of Middle Level Administrators (AAMLA) Principal of the Year. This award is sponsored by Lifetouch. Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director; Lenett Thrasher, AAEA Assistant Executive Director; Molly Davis and Jason Brunner, AAMLA Board Members; and Tammy Carmical, Lifetouch, presented Mr. McClure with the award at his school on April 11, 2025. Congratulations, Mr. McClure!
