Heather Barron

Heather Barron, who has spent 14 years as a teacher and instructional facilitator at Jones Elementary School, has been named assistant principal at Smith Elementary. She replaces Tonya Woods, who retired.

“My years in the Springdale School District have been flooded with outstanding mentors who have taught me more than I ever could have imagined,” Barron said. “I am honored that Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins, his leadership team and the Springdale School Board have given me the opportunity to serve the students and families at T.G. Smith Elementary.

“I want to thank Smith principal Kim Simco for her trust in me as her assistant principal. I am dedicated to continuous learning and serving our students at high levels.”

A graduate of the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s in teaching in Early Childhood Education, Barron earned her Ed.S. degree in Educational Leadership through Arkansas State University. She also holds an ESL endorsement from Henderson State University.

For the past 14 years Barron has served at Jones Elementary. She was a classroom teacher for six years before transitioning into an instructional facilitator role. In addition, she has led math professional development at the state, region and district level. 

“Mrs. Barron is one of the most respected members of the Springdale educational team and she is well-suited at this time to move into the role of assistant principal at Smith Elementary,” said Rollins. “I look forward to watching Mrs. Kim Simco, principal, and the outstanding Smith Elementary team as they embrace Mrs. Barron in her new role and to seeing them move forward together in pursuit of educational excellence."