📣 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬!
We are now accepting presentation proposals for the 𝟕𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐒𝐁𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟗–𝟏𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔!
This year’s theme, “𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐈𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐦 – 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬,” will bring Arkansas school board members and administrators together for practical, relevant learning focused on stronger governance, leadership, and student outcomes.
We are looking for engaging sessions that share innovative ideas, practical solutions, and strategies that board members can take back to their districts. Presentations should be designed primarily for school board members, and including a board member on the presenting team is encouraged.
📅 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: November 6
🔗 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐚 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥: https://bit.ly/acrfp26
📋 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬: https://aptg.co/SzBsFG
Have a topic or experience worth sharing? Help set the tone for stronger schools at Annual Conference 2026!
We are now accepting presentation proposals for the 𝟕𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐒𝐁𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟗–𝟏𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔!
This year’s theme, “𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐈𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐦 – 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬,” will bring Arkansas school board members and administrators together for practical, relevant learning focused on stronger governance, leadership, and student outcomes.
We are looking for engaging sessions that share innovative ideas, practical solutions, and strategies that board members can take back to their districts. Presentations should be designed primarily for school board members, and including a board member on the presenting team is encouraged.
📅 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: November 6
🔗 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐚 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥: https://bit.ly/acrfp26
📋 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬: https://aptg.co/SzBsFG
Have a topic or experience worth sharing? Help set the tone for stronger schools at Annual Conference 2026!
On this Patriot Day, we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001, the first responders who ran toward danger, and the countless individuals whose courage and service emerged in the days that followed.
May we continue to carry forward the spirit of unity and compassion that brought Americans together during one of our nation’s darkest moments.
We will never forget.
May we continue to carry forward the spirit of unity and compassion that brought Americans together during one of our nation’s darkest moments.
We will never forget.
The September 2026 issue of Report Card, the journal of the Arkansas School Boards Association, is now available!
Inside this issue:
•Jordan an Educator, Advocate – Remembering longtime Arkansas educator and former ASBA Advocacy Director Dan Jordan, whose 37-year career was marked by a commitment to students, relationships, and public education.
• Students Take the Stage – Southern Region Leadership Conference attendees heard from six Arkansas students who shared what they value about their schools, where they see room for improvement, and why school leaders need to listen to student voices.
• Unanimous Board Votes and Healthy Disagreement – A UCA study of more than 27,000 Arkansas school board votes explores how often boards disagree, what issues most often divide them, and how healthy disagreement can strengthen governance.
• Nelson: School Boards Will Save Rural Regions – Rex Nelson traced the shared history and challenges of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi while making the case that strong public schools are essential to the future of rural communities.
• Executive Session with Jason Jones – Get to know Yellville-Summit board member and ASBA Region 2 Director Jason Jones in Report Card’s recurring Q&A feature.
•Five Teacher of the Year Semifinalists – Meet the five educators selected as 2027 Arkansas Teacher of the Year state semifinalists and the other finalists recognized among the state’s outstanding teachers.
This and previous issues of Report Card are available online at arsba.org/page/report-card-magazine.
Thank you for staying connected with ASBA!
Inside this issue:
•Jordan an Educator, Advocate – Remembering longtime Arkansas educator and former ASBA Advocacy Director Dan Jordan, whose 37-year career was marked by a commitment to students, relationships, and public education.
• Students Take the Stage – Southern Region Leadership Conference attendees heard from six Arkansas students who shared what they value about their schools, where they see room for improvement, and why school leaders need to listen to student voices.
• Unanimous Board Votes and Healthy Disagreement – A UCA study of more than 27,000 Arkansas school board votes explores how often boards disagree, what issues most often divide them, and how healthy disagreement can strengthen governance.
• Nelson: School Boards Will Save Rural Regions – Rex Nelson traced the shared history and challenges of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi while making the case that strong public schools are essential to the future of rural communities.
• Executive Session with Jason Jones – Get to know Yellville-Summit board member and ASBA Region 2 Director Jason Jones in Report Card’s recurring Q&A feature.
•Five Teacher of the Year Semifinalists – Meet the five educators selected as 2027 Arkansas Teacher of the Year state semifinalists and the other finalists recognized among the state’s outstanding teachers.
This and previous issues of Report Card are available online at arsba.org/page/report-card-magazine.
Thank you for staying connected with ASBA!
ASBA’s monthly webinar series returns on September 15 with a closer look at Personnel Policy Committees (PPCs). This one-hour webinar will cover the ins and outs of PPCs, including their role, responsibilities, required processes, and common questions that arise when navigating personnel policy matters.
Webinar Details:
Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $55
Training Credit: 1 Hour
Registration:
Register through AR Board Connect at https://bit.ly/arboardconnect by selecting the “Registrations/Publications” tab.
A Zoom registration link will be included in your confirmation email. To receive the meeting link, you must complete the Zoom registration separately (no additional fee required).
We look forward to your participation!
Webinar Details:
Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $55
Training Credit: 1 Hour
Registration:
Register through AR Board Connect at https://bit.ly/arboardconnect by selecting the “Registrations/Publications” tab.
A Zoom registration link will be included in your confirmation email. To receive the meeting link, you must complete the Zoom registration separately (no additional fee required).
We look forward to your participation!
Arkansas juniors and seniors, it’s your turn to step up, speak out, and shine!
The 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘆 & 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 is now open! This year’s theme, “𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻…”, challenges students to look beyond high school and consider who they hope to become as they navigate greater independence, new responsibilities, and an uncertain future.
Students can compete for cash prizes of$𝟭,𝟬𝟬𝟬, $𝟳𝟱𝟬, $𝟱𝟬𝟬 𝗮𝗻𝗱 $𝟮𝟱𝟬, with the top three winners presenting their speeches live at the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟵–𝟭𝟭 in 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸.
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: 4 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2026
𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲: 11th and 12th graders from ASBA member schools
𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘆: 600–750 words + video presentation
𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁: One submission per member high school
We want to hear your voice, your experiences, and your hopes for what comes next.
𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: https://aptg.co/rz4Ml7
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆: bit.ly/sscontest26
Good luck to all of our student speakers! #StudentFocusedLeadership
The 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘆 & 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 is now open! This year’s theme, “𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻…”, challenges students to look beyond high school and consider who they hope to become as they navigate greater independence, new responsibilities, and an uncertain future.
Students can compete for cash prizes of$𝟭,𝟬𝟬𝟬, $𝟳𝟱𝟬, $𝟱𝟬𝟬 𝗮𝗻𝗱 $𝟮𝟱𝟬, with the top three winners presenting their speeches live at the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟵–𝟭𝟭 in 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸.
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: 4 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2026
𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲: 11th and 12th graders from ASBA member schools
𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘆: 600–750 words + video presentation
𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁: One submission per member high school
We want to hear your voice, your experiences, and your hopes for what comes next.
𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: https://aptg.co/rz4Ml7
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆: bit.ly/sscontest26
Good luck to all of our student speakers! #StudentFocusedLeadership
Happy Labor Day! ASBA offices are closed in observance of the holiday. We will return to normal business hours on Tuesday, September 8.
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁. 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻. 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆.
Registration is open for 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔’𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀! Join school board members and district leaders from your area for an evening of networking, timely updates, and conversation about the issues affecting Arkansas public schools.
Each meeting will feature a state legislator from the region, giving attendees an opportunity to ask questions and hear legislative updates and perspectives.
𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 of DESE-approved board training credit will be available.
𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁: $60 per person
Learn more and find your region’s date and location: https://www.arsba.org/article/3113686
Register through AR Board Connect: https://bit.ly/arboardconnect
Registration is open for 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔’𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀! Join school board members and district leaders from your area for an evening of networking, timely updates, and conversation about the issues affecting Arkansas public schools.
Each meeting will feature a state legislator from the region, giving attendees an opportunity to ask questions and hear legislative updates and perspectives.
𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 of DESE-approved board training credit will be available.
𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁: $60 per person
Learn more and find your region’s date and location: https://www.arsba.org/article/3113686
Register through AR Board Connect: https://bit.ly/arboardconnect
We are pleased to welcome another newly appointed director to the ASBA Board! Elizabeth Walker of the Horatio School District represents Region 12.
Elizabeth serves as President of the Horatio School Board and brings a strong commitment to public education, rural communities, and developing opportunities for the next generation. She serves numerous agricultural, conservation, economic development, and community organizations throughout Arkansas.
A full-time farmer and engineer, Elizabeth and her husband, Brian, own and operate Lucky 13 Farm LLC, a diversified 2,500-acre farming operation in southwest Arkansas that they started in 2003 with just 150 acres and 13 head of cattle. She holds a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Arkansas and previously worked as a senior process engineer before returning to the farm full time.
Elizabeth is also the founder and head coach of the Horatio Youth Shooting Sports Team and is passionate about mentorship, leadership development, and ensuring strong rural public schools continue creating opportunities for future generations.
Elizabeth and Brian have two children, Reese and Rhett, and enjoy spending time together in the woods and on the river.
We are grateful to have Elizabeth bring her experience in education, agriculture, and community leadership to the ASBA Board! Please join us in welcoming her. #StudentFocusedLeadership
Elizabeth serves as President of the Horatio School Board and brings a strong commitment to public education, rural communities, and developing opportunities for the next generation. She serves numerous agricultural, conservation, economic development, and community organizations throughout Arkansas.
A full-time farmer and engineer, Elizabeth and her husband, Brian, own and operate Lucky 13 Farm LLC, a diversified 2,500-acre farming operation in southwest Arkansas that they started in 2003 with just 150 acres and 13 head of cattle. She holds a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Arkansas and previously worked as a senior process engineer before returning to the farm full time.
Elizabeth is also the founder and head coach of the Horatio Youth Shooting Sports Team and is passionate about mentorship, leadership development, and ensuring strong rural public schools continue creating opportunities for future generations.
Elizabeth and Brian have two children, Reese and Rhett, and enjoy spending time together in the woods and on the river.
We are grateful to have Elizabeth bring her experience in education, agriculture, and community leadership to the ASBA Board! Please join us in welcoming her. #StudentFocusedLeadership
Does your school board exemplify exceptional leadership, strong governance, and a commitment to student success? It’s time to share their story!
Applications are now open for the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱, recognizing Arkansas school boards whose leadership and dedication are making a difference for their students, schools, and communities.
Up to two boards will be honored—one from a district with enrollment below 1,500 and one from a district with enrollment above 1,500. Award recipients will be recognized at the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟭.
📅 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
Learn more about the award and criteria: https://aptg.co/l0gNbB
Apply: https://bit.ly/asbaboe26
Know a board whose work deserves recognition? Encourage them to apply!
Applications are now open for the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱, recognizing Arkansas school boards whose leadership and dedication are making a difference for their students, schools, and communities.
Up to two boards will be honored—one from a district with enrollment below 1,500 and one from a district with enrollment above 1,500. Award recipients will be recognized at the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗔𝗦𝗕𝗔 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟭.
📅 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
Learn more about the award and criteria: https://aptg.co/l0gNbB
Apply: https://bit.ly/asbaboe26
Know a board whose work deserves recognition? Encourage them to apply!
There’s still time to register for the 2026 ASBA Fall Leadership Institute!
Join us September 2 in Hot Springs for a day of timely updates, practical guidance, and conversations focused on the issues facing Arkansas school boards and districts.
Register by tomorrow, August 25, to take advantage of the discounted early registration rate.
In-person and virtual attendance options are available. We hope to see you there!
View the agenda: https://aptg.co/3mgzlT
Register: https://bit.ly/arboardconnect
#StudentFocusedLeadership
Join us September 2 in Hot Springs for a day of timely updates, practical guidance, and conversations focused on the issues facing Arkansas school boards and districts.
Register by tomorrow, August 25, to take advantage of the discounted early registration rate.
In-person and virtual attendance options are available. We hope to see you there!
View the agenda: https://aptg.co/3mgzlT
Register: https://bit.ly/arboardconnect
#StudentFocusedLeadership
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Dr. Daniel L. Pilkinton Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education! 🏆
Presented annually by ASBA, the Dr. Dan Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant and lasting contribution to public education in Arkansas. Nominees may include school board members, administrators, teachers, school employees, attorneys, legislators, elected officials, or school patrons.
Help us recognize someone whose service and dedication have made a difference for Arkansas public schools!
🔗 Submit a nomination: https://bit.ly/drdan26
📋 View award criteria: https://aptg.co/Gd45Kf
📅 Deadline: October 15, 2026
The recipient will be honored during the ASBA Annual Conference Awards Ceremony on December 10, 2026.
Who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding service to Arkansas public education? Nominate them today! #StudentFocusedLeadership
Presented annually by ASBA, the Dr. Dan Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant and lasting contribution to public education in Arkansas. Nominees may include school board members, administrators, teachers, school employees, attorneys, legislators, elected officials, or school patrons.
Help us recognize someone whose service and dedication have made a difference for Arkansas public schools!
🔗 Submit a nomination: https://bit.ly/drdan26
📋 View award criteria: https://aptg.co/Gd45Kf
📅 Deadline: October 15, 2026
The recipient will be honored during the ASBA Annual Conference Awards Ceremony on December 10, 2026.
Who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding service to Arkansas public education? Nominate them today! #StudentFocusedLeadership
𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙧𝙠𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨! 🍎📚
Jonesboro School District board members brought plenty of energy to New Teacher Orientation by greeting administrators, celebrating new educators, and even showing off a few dance moves along the way!
Board President Dr. Charles Coleman, Vice President Joe Sheppard, and Board Members Justin Parkey, Brock Ferguson, and Ashleigh Givens were all on hand to help welcome the newest members of the Jonesboro team.
We love seeing school board members take part in the celebration! #StudentFocusedLeadership
Jonesboro School District board members brought plenty of energy to New Teacher Orientation by greeting administrators, celebrating new educators, and even showing off a few dance moves along the way!
Board President Dr. Charles Coleman, Vice President Joe Sheppard, and Board Members Justin Parkey, Brock Ferguson, and Ashleigh Givens were all on hand to help welcome the newest members of the Jonesboro team.
We love seeing school board members take part in the celebration! #StudentFocusedLeadership
𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙧𝙠𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨! 🍎📚
Continuing our back-to-school series with Farmington School District!
Board President Travis Warren spent time with Farmington staff during back-to-school inservice, addressing the team and connecting with the educators and employees who serve students each day.
School board leadership is about more than the boardroom. Being present, building relationships, and supporting staff are all part of helping start the school year strong.
Thank you, Travis, for representing school board leadership in action!
#StudentFocusedLeadership
To be featured, send photos or videos to jprothro@arsba.org.
Please join us in welcoming Todd Reed, newly appointed ASBA Region 3 Director!
Todd has served on the Valley View School District Board of Education since 2017, including a term as board president. During his board service, he has helped lead a district serving approximately 2,900 students and 345 employees. He has navigated key initiatives including a superintendent search, board vacancy appointment, policy updates, and the transition to a zoned district.
Professionally, Todd brings more than 30 years of experience in enterprise technology and architecture across a variety of industries. He currently works at City Water and Light of Jonesboro and holds an MBA and two undergraduate degrees from Arkansas State University.
Todd is also active in his community, volunteering with Valley View schools and the Jonesboro Community Health and Education Foundation. When he is not working or serving his community, you might find him teaching scuba diving through JT Dive Shop!
Todd and his wife have been married for 23 years, and their son is a senior at Valley View High School.
We are proud to welcome Todd to the ASBA Board of Directors and look forward to the leadership and perspective he will bring. Please help us give him a warm ASBA welcome! #StudentFocusedLeadership
Todd has served on the Valley View School District Board of Education since 2017, including a term as board president. During his board service, he has helped lead a district serving approximately 2,900 students and 345 employees. He has navigated key initiatives including a superintendent search, board vacancy appointment, policy updates, and the transition to a zoned district.
Professionally, Todd brings more than 30 years of experience in enterprise technology and architecture across a variety of industries. He currently works at City Water and Light of Jonesboro and holds an MBA and two undergraduate degrees from Arkansas State University.
Todd is also active in his community, volunteering with Valley View schools and the Jonesboro Community Health and Education Foundation. When he is not working or serving his community, you might find him teaching scuba diving through JT Dive Shop!
Todd and his wife have been married for 23 years, and their son is a senior at Valley View High School.
We are proud to welcome Todd to the ASBA Board of Directors and look forward to the leadership and perspective he will bring. Please help us give him a warm ASBA welcome! #StudentFocusedLeadership
𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙧𝙠𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨! 🍎📚
Our back-to-school series continues in Alpena School District, where Board President Lynette Cantwell joined district leaders in welcoming students, staff, and families back for a new school year!
School board members play an important role in supporting their schools, and being present at events like these is one of the many ways they stay connected to the communities they serve.
📸 Pictured from left: Superintendent Matt Ferguson, Board President Lynette Cantwell, and Principal Sara Curry.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
Our back-to-school series continues in Alpena School District, where Board President Lynette Cantwell joined district leaders in welcoming students, staff, and families back for a new school year!
School board members play an important role in supporting their schools, and being present at events like these is one of the many ways they stay connected to the communities they serve.
📸 Pictured from left: Superintendent Matt Ferguson, Board President Lynette Cantwell, and Principal Sara Curry.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
The full agenda is now available for the 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐀𝐒𝐁𝐀 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞, taking place on 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐 at the 𝐇𝐨𝐭 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫! 𝘝𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦.
This one-day event brings school board members and administrators together for timely updates and practical guidance on issues affecting Arkansas public education. Hear from state leaders and experts, connect with peers, and gain valuable information to support your work at the local level.
Whether you attend in person or virtually, this is a great opportunity to strengthen your leadership and stay informed. We hope to see you there!
View the agenda: https://aptg.co/3mgzlT
Register: bit.ly/arboardconnect
Learn more at https://www.arsba.org/article/3047781.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
This one-day event brings school board members and administrators together for timely updates and practical guidance on issues affecting Arkansas public education. Hear from state leaders and experts, connect with peers, and gain valuable information to support your work at the local level.
Whether you attend in person or virtually, this is a great opportunity to strengthen your leadership and stay informed. We hope to see you there!
View the agenda: https://aptg.co/3mgzlT
Register: bit.ly/arboardconnect
Learn more at https://www.arsba.org/article/3047781.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙧𝙠𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨! 🍎📚
On August 11, Shirley School District board members Coy Myers, Samantha Shull, and Callie Davidson partnered with Petit Jean Electric and Petit Jean Fiber to welcome students back by opening doors in the car rider line.
Thank you for helping make the first days back a welcoming experience for Shirley students and families!
📸 Pictured from left: Board Member Coy Myers; Board President Samantha Shull; two Petit Jean team members; Board Secretary and Petit Jean employee Callie Davidson; and Superintendent Aaron Wiggins.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
On August 11, Shirley School District board members Coy Myers, Samantha Shull, and Callie Davidson partnered with Petit Jean Electric and Petit Jean Fiber to welcome students back by opening doors in the car rider line.
Thank you for helping make the first days back a welcoming experience for Shirley students and families!
📸 Pictured from left: Board Member Coy Myers; Board President Samantha Shull; two Petit Jean team members; Board Secretary and Petit Jean employee Callie Davidson; and Superintendent Aaron Wiggins.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙧𝙠𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙖𝙨 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨! 🍎📚
Across Arkansas, school board members are showing up and supporting their schools as students and staff begin a new year. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be highlighting board members taking part in back-to-school activities in their districts!
First up: 𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡 𝘽𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙈𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙏𝙤𝙙𝙙 𝘿𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙮’𝙨 “𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙮 𝘿𝙖𝙮 𝙊𝙣𝙚” 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢.
Through this board-approved initiative, all 1,800 Gentry students receive teacher-selected school supplies at no cost to their families. Working alongside community partners, the district helps ensure every student has the supplies they need to walk through the doors ready to learn from day one.
Thank you to Todd and school board members across the Natural State who are showing up for their students, staff, and communities this back-to-school season!
𝘛𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘰𝘳 𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘰𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘵'𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬-𝘵𝘰-𝘴𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘫𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰@𝘢𝘳𝘴𝘣𝘢.𝘰𝘳𝘨.
#StudentFocusedLeadership
Registration is now open for the 2026 ASBA Fall Leadership Institute, taking place on Wednesday, September 2 at the Hot Springs Convention Center! Virtual attendance is also available.
This one-day event, worth 6 boardsmanship training hours, focuses on equipping school board members and administrators with the tools and insights they need to lead effectively. We will cover current issues affecting the work you do in your local districts, encourage you to connect with peers from across the state, and offer training sessions that are both practical and relevant.
Whether you attend in person or virtually, this is a great opportunity to strengthen your leadership and stay informed. We hope to see you there!
Register online at bit.ly/arboardconnect under the “Registrations / Publications” tab. Full agenda coming soon!
Learn more at https://www.arsba.org/article/3047781. #StudentFocusedLeadership
This one-day event, worth 6 boardsmanship training hours, focuses on equipping school board members and administrators with the tools and insights they need to lead effectively. We will cover current issues affecting the work you do in your local districts, encourage you to connect with peers from across the state, and offer training sessions that are both practical and relevant.
Whether you attend in person or virtually, this is a great opportunity to strengthen your leadership and stay informed. We hope to see you there!
Register online at bit.ly/arboardconnect under the “Registrations / Publications” tab. Full agenda coming soon!
Learn more at https://www.arsba.org/article/3047781. #StudentFocusedLeadership
Yesterday’s student panel was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
Thank you to our outstanding student leaders—Madi Duke (Beebe High School), Austin Bernard (Little Rock Parkview High School), Cooper Jones (Lake Hamilton High School), Mallory Thompson (Bryant High School), Annslee Young (Sheridan High School), and Micah Autrey (Morrilton High School)—for sharing their perspectives openly and honestly. We also appreciate ASBA Board Vice President Travis Warren for facilitating this meaningful conversation.
One of the biggest takeaways was that school leaders and board members must be willing to listen to and value student voices. When students are included in the conversation, schools are better equipped to meet their needs and prepare them for success in today’s world.
Stay tuned for more highlights from the 2026 Southern Region Leadership Conference! Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, sponsored, volunteered, and supported this tri-state event! #MeetingtheMoment
Thank you to our outstanding student leaders—Madi Duke (Beebe High School), Austin Bernard (Little Rock Parkview High School), Cooper Jones (Lake Hamilton High School), Mallory Thompson (Bryant High School), Annslee Young (Sheridan High School), and Micah Autrey (Morrilton High School)—for sharing their perspectives openly and honestly. We also appreciate ASBA Board Vice President Travis Warren for facilitating this meaningful conversation.
One of the biggest takeaways was that school leaders and board members must be willing to listen to and value student voices. When students are included in the conversation, schools are better equipped to meet their needs and prepare them for success in today’s world.
Stay tuned for more highlights from the 2026 Southern Region Leadership Conference! Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, sponsored, volunteered, and supported this tri-state event! #MeetingtheMoment
