KELLY BOORTZ – PRINCIPAL, DON TYSON SCHOOL OF INNOVATIONKelly Boortz has roots in Georgia but quickly grew connected to the Springdale School District. When J.B.Hunt Transport transferred her husband, Kevin, from Macon, Georgia to Northwest Arkansas, Boortz,who is the principal at the Don Tyson School of Innovation, got over the initial shock of moving from theonly... READ MORE >

Dr. Coby Davis literally gave blood to get a job in the Springdale School District. Scheduled to beinterviewed for a teaching job at Sonora Middle School, Davis accidentally cut his arm reaching under his car seat. Fortunately, there was a Dollar General Store handy, so he bought some paper towels to wrap around his arm to stem the blood flow.“Even though the... READ MORE >

Paul Griep’s parents never went to college but his mother wanted him to. It was a high school Spanish teacher who took enough interest in Griep to convince him to pursue higher education. Without her influence, Griep might never have become principal at Springdale Har-Ber High School.“Kids have dreams but don’t know how to get there,” says Griep, in his third year... READ MORE >

Springdale High School principal Jason Jones has no idea where he would be if he had neverknown Kevin Brown. Living in a travel trailer in a junkyard, Jones struggled until he switched high schools before his junior year. Brown became his football coach, mentor and even an employer.“My dad was in the oil business so we moved a lot and I went to a lot of different... READ MORE >

DEREK RATCHFORD SELECTED AS GROSVENOR TEACHER FELLOWSonora Middle School EAST instructor Derek Ratchford is only the second teacher from Arkansasever selected as a Grosvenor Teacher Fellow by the National Geographic Society and LindbladExpeditions. This is the 14 th year of the program.“This is a huge opportunity,” said Ratchford. “I want to be the teacher who... READ MORE >

SHAY HOPPER LOVES CHOICEShay Hopper loves choice. She always has. That’s why she loves the choices the SpringdalePublic School District offers its students. In her role as assistant principal and director of the VirtualAcademy at the Don Tyson School of Innovation, Hopper is instrumental in helping parents make he bestchoice for their students.“In Springdale we... READ MORE >

Chelsea Jennings of Lakeside Junior High has been named Arkansas Secondary School Assistant Principal of the Year by the Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators. In her fifth year as assistant principal at Lakeside Junior High, Jennings taught two years at J.O. Kelly Middle School and six years at Springdale High School before becoming a district TOSA... READ MORE >

DTSOI INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE DEDICATION “The state needs to have a thousand facilities like this one,” said Arkansas Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin at the dedication of the Don Tyson School of Innovation Industrial Maintenance Program. “This is the template for what can be done. I haven’t seen anything like this. It is the nicest, most well-equipped... READ MORE >

Bernice Young Elementary School has been named a 2020 Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School by the United States Department of Education. “I commend you for striving to do what’s right for your students and to personalize instruction to meet your students’ unique needs and strengths,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in a letter to the... READ MORE >

Jennifer Taunton, a gifted and talented teacher at Linda Childers Knapp Elementary School and Jennifer Malugen, a GT instructor at Monitor Elementary, are among the five teachers in Arkansas who have been named Bessie B. Moore Award winners by Economics Arkansas. After a surprise visit by Associate Director of Economics Arkansas Marsha Masters, Taunton said,... READ MORE >

Steven Silvey moved from Oklahoma to Springdale as he was set to begin the third grade. He didn’t know anyone and he was quiet and shy. His teacher, Cindy Paxson, made the transition easier, assuring him the year would go well. Thirty years later there is another Silvey in Paxson’s classroom. It’s Steven’s son Landon. “It’s amazing,” Paxson, in her 32nd year... READ MORE >

Forbes Magazine has ranked Springdale Public Schools number four on its Best-in-America Employers list for Arkansas. Of entities based in Arkansas, only Arc Best in Fort Smith (number two on the list) was ranked ahead of Springdale Public Schools. Entergy, based in New Orleans, and Federal Express, with home office in Memphis, were ranked first and third,... READ MORE >

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Shelly Porter, who just joined the Westwood Elementary staff as Library Media Specialist, is one of only 98 teachers in the U.S. to have participated in the National History Day summer professional development program. Mrs. Porter has explored digitized primary sources from the Library of Congress, engaged in four live webinar programs and discussions with fellow... READ MORE >

#SHIELDUP to keep everybody safe... READ MORE >

Here is the schedule for Students taking classes virtually or blended to pick up Chromebooks at the Don Tyson School of Innovation. READ MORE >

Superintendent Dr. Jared Cleveland has been named Administrator of the Year by the Arkansas Association of School Personnel Administrators! Congratulations! #THEChoice READ MORE >

For the first time in its 54-year history the Springdale Chamber of Commerce will stage its Teacher Appreciation Breakfast virtually. Perry Webb and Bill Rogers of the Chamber visited the district TV studio to rehearse the event which is scheduled for August 14 at 7:30 am. The district media department will live stream the event. READ MORE >

Here is some great news! With One Step: The Arkhan Langenbelik story is an Official Selection of the 2020 Bentonville Film Festival! Amazing stories like his are why Springdale is #THEChoice Click here to watch the documentary: https://youtu.be/1876ILyLVHs READ MORE >

Abbie Russell was presented her Regional Teacher of the Year Award by Governor Asa Hutchinson and Commissioner of Education Johnny Key. #THEChoice READ MORE >

The Springdale School Board will hold its regular meeting at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be available only via live stream. In-person public access to the administration building will not be available. The live stream of the meeting will be available at the following link beginning at 5 p.m.:... READ MORE >

After 38 years as Superintendent of Springdale Public Schools, Dr. Jim Rollins has resigned to accept the position of President of the Northwest Technical Institute. Dr. Rollins’ letter of resignation was accepted by the Springdale School Board Tuesday, June 2. He was announced as President of NWIT Wednesday, June 3. Dr. Rollins joined the Springdale staff in 1980... READ MORE >

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Springdale School Board meeting on May 12, 2020, will be available only via live stream. In-person public access to the administration building will not be available. The live stream of the meeting will be available at the following link beginning at 5 p.m. on the day of the meeting:... READ MORE >

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Springdale School Board meeting on May 12, 2020, will be available only via live stream. In-person public access to the administration building will not be available. The live stream of the meeting will be available at the following link beginning at 5 p.m. on the day of the meeting:... READ MORE >

Marshallese: Kakobaba in melele ko kin Kadriwojlok: Leta ko nan aolep senior rar ilok nan ir ilo Mande eo jen burinjibol ro aer. Graduation Special eo ak Juon Kain Kadriwojlok eo Ejenolok enaj komman ilo 7 awa jota Bolaide, Mae 29 jen Archer Learning Center eo. Graduation Special ko ilo Mae 30 rej an Springdale High School ilo 10 awa jibbon, Har-Ber High School... READ MORE >

Melissa Fink, who has served at Jones Elementary since 2004, has been named Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Curriculum and Instruction. She is replacing Maribel Childress who was named Superintendent of the Gravette School District. “I want to thank Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins, the administrative team and the... READ MORE >

Please take some time to help CTE with this survey. Thank you.https://forms.gle/KC8iPrzKy4N8... READ MORE >

Christy Norwood, who has served as assistant principal at Central Junior High for the past two years, has been named principal at Bernice Young Elementary. Norwood replaces Debbie Flora, who is retiring at the end of the academic year. "I am beyond excited to lead Bernice Young Elementary to continued success,” Norwood said. “I... READ MORE >

Tyson Middle School Music Program Recognized Again Danny Darrough should have been surprised but he wasn’t. When Tyson Middle School received the Merit Award from the National Association of Music Merchants it was a big, big deal. Darrough and Tyson students and faculty have every reason to celebrate. Darrough, though, had every reason to... READ MORE >

Kojela nan 2020 Senior ro: Kin melele ko rekaal nan Alternate Methods of Instruction ilo an naaj aetoklok nan jemlokin yio in jikuul in, Jikuul ko an Springdale ak Springdale Public School ear kommane bebe in nan aolep senior ro im emman ijo rej bed ie ikkijien katak im kireet ko aer ilo jemlokin wiik ko ruwatimjuon kein kajilu bwe en kadriwojlok. Senior ro im... READ MORE >

Atención Seniors 2020: Con la nueva información de que los Métodos Alternos de Instrucción se extenderán hasta el final del año académico, las Escuelas Públicas de Springdale han tomado la decisión de permitir que los estudiantes de último año que estén en buen estado al final de las últimas nueve semanas se gradúen. Los seniors que no están en camino de... READ MORE >

De acuerdo con la proclamación del gobernador Asa Hutchinson, las Escuelas Públicas de Springdale continuarán educando a sus estudiantes con Métodos Alternativos de Instrucción hasta el final del año escolar. La semana pasada se distribuyeron paquetes de AMI que llevan a los estudiantes hasta el 1 de mayo. AMI para el resto del año escolar se encuentra en la etapa... READ MORE >

Nan loore im ekkeijel lok ippen naan in kojela ko jen Governor Asa Hutchinson, Jikuul kein an Springdale enaj wonmaanlok wot ilo Alternate Methods of Instruction ak Wawein ko Roktak ilo Katakin mae jemlokin yio in jikuul in. AMI packet ko ak pepa ko an AMI rar ajeeji ilo wiik eo ej jemlok nan katak ko renaj boklok rijikuul ro nan May 1. AMI ak katak ko jet im renaj... READ MORE >

Central Team Qualifies For All-State Coding Jackson Daniel, Audrey Shellhammer and Connor Simmons were surprised to say the least. The Central Junior High students entered Governor Asa Hutchinson’s All-State Coding Competition hoping they would do well but they were all stunned when they were among the final 17 teams to advance. ... READ MORE >

Here is the new information on food service to students in Spanish and Marshallese. #THEChoice. Para la seguridad de los estudiantes y el personal, a partir del 6 de abril de 2020, las escuelas de Springdale SOLO ofrecerán los almuerzos para llevar. Los lugares de recogida estarán abiertos LUNES, MIÉRCOLES y VIERNES entre las 11: 30-12: 30 pm. Los niños menores de... READ MORE >

Innovative ideas are a staple of Springdale Public Schools. For instance, ninth grade English and Yearbook teacher Colton Lindsey, is using Youtube to create videos to connect with his students at Central Junior High School as an Alternative Method of Instruction. “As a way to keep students motivated during AMI days, I have started a Youtube channel for my... READ MORE >

Presenting projects in front of fellow students is normal for members of Laurie Jennings’ class at Har-Ber High School, but now students may be presenting business plans and marketing strategies will be made virtually through Alternative Methods of Instruction. Jennings teaches Management, Business Law, and Marketing where her classes are collaborative and... READ MORE >

While preparing Alternative Methods of Instruction for his Central Junior High Students, AP Human Geography teacher, Thomas Pittman suggested studying the Spanish Flu Epidemic of 1918/1919 for comparisons to today’s outbreak, COVID-19. A student asked him if he was alive back then. “Yes, but I was only a baby,” Pittman responded. “No, not really.” Pittman has... READ MORE >

Audrey Parkes, a third grade student at Sonora Elementary, plans to advance her medical aspirations this summer at a camp in Dallas. Eventually she wants to travel around the world helping patients who may not have access to doctors. Wait! Parkes is only a third grader? How in the world did she start thinking like a pre-med college student? “When I was younger I... READ MORE >

When Hellstern Middle School seventh grader Silas Wilson performed a trumpet solo on video to enter national competition, he had no idea what the results would be. Silas and everyone who knows him were amazed to discover he is one of 17 National Semfinalists in the Junior Division and he will be performing in Philadelphia in March. “My selection was the Hansen... READ MORE >

Lakeside Junior High counselor Lauren Willis has been named Arkansas School Counselor Association Northwest Arkansas Regional Junior High School Counselor of the Year. Willis has been a counselor at Lakeside since the school opened seven years ago. She is in her eighth year in the district. “I split time at the Archer Center, George Junior High and Hellstern... READ MORE >

In just her second year at the Don Tyson School of Innovation, Tara Elzer has been named Arkansas Scholastic School Counselor Association Northwest Arkansas High School Counselor of the Year! “I was surprised,” Elzer said. “I didn’t know Kelly Boortz (DTSOI principal) had nominated me. When I was named, they showed me the letter Mrs. Boortz wrote on my behalf. I... READ MORE >

Several years ago Lynette Hess’ sister was worried about her son, who had long hair and wore shaggy clothes. She finally summoned enough courage to ask if he was using drugs. His response? “No, mom. I’m a skateboarder. I have to keep my balance.” Hess’ nephew is in his 40’s now but the counselor who helps serve Monitor and Shaw Elementary Schools never forgot his... READ MORE >

Thanks to a grant from the Walton Family Foundation and through partnership with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Springdale Har-Ber High School will have the use of 15 flight simulators and two teacher stations for use by its Aviation Club. In addition, Har-Ber will host the two-week S.H.E. Can STEM Summer Camp staged by the National Air and Space... READ MORE >

Modeling and medicine are Allie Shanks’ passions. The Central Junior High eighth grader is aware of the work ahead in her quest to enter the medical profession. But, even as young as she is, she has already entered the modeling field. “I signed with an agency when I was a seventh grader at Hellstern Middle School,” says Shanks, whose sister Counts has been... READ MORE >

Arkansas is the sixth state Central Junior High ninth grader Thubthamany Millian (Mille) Thongdy has lived in. She wasn’t expecting anything different. However, principal Dr. Todd Loftin and the school culture have changed her life. “When I came to Central I was expecting mean teachers,” says Millie, who was in school in Louisiana as an eighth grader. “Instead,... READ MORE >

When Arkansas Education Commissioner Johnny Key was asked to participate in a panel discussion about developing strategic partnerships with public schools, he asked Springdale Assistant Superintendent Shannon Tisher to join him at the Council of Chief Sate School Officers annual meeting in Atlanta. Key and Tisher shared the panel with North Dakota’s Education... READ MORE >

In his 29th year in the Springdale School District and sixth as assistant principal at Springdale High School, Don Eichenbergerhas been named Arkansas Assistant Principal of the Year by the Arkansas Association of Secondary School Principals. AAEA Executive Director Dr. Richard Abernathy presented the award at the conclusion of what Eichenberger thought was an... READ MORE >

Under normal circumstances Landon Edwards would be graduating from Springdale Har-Ber High School in the spring of 2020. But, circumstances aren’t normal for Edwards. When his father passed away he lost his desire to go to school. He was told about the Archer Learning Center, enrolled there and the spark has returned to his life. Edwards had not had trouble... READ MORE >

Since her father was an engineer, Anna Shaw grew up thinking about a career in engineering. Her pathway changed when her mother, knowing how much Anna loved math, suggested her daughter would be an outstanding math teacher. “I loved math growing up,” says Shaw, a sixth grade math teacher at J.O. Kelly Middle School. “My dad was great at math and always helped me,... READ MORE >

Initially exhausted by the travel but elated by the experience, members of the Don Tyson School of Innovation Root Negative One robotics team are back in their classrooms and already preparing for their next adventure. “We got back Monday evening after 16 hours on a plane and a bus ride from Dallas and Tuesday after school we were meeting about this year’s... READ MORE >

Joel Lookadoo, a first year math and science instructional facilitator at the Don Tyson School of Innovation after serving as a ninth grade algebra instructor for six years at Lakeside Junior High School, has been named Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Lookadoo is the first Springdale teacher to be named state Teacher of the Year since Justin Minkel, who teaches at... READ MORE >

In order to stimulate an enhanced appetite for reading among her students, Sonora Elementary School fifth grade teacher Kari Spurlock created a book club. Imagine the response when the author of the first book selected joined Spurlock’s students and parents by livestreaming from his home in Australia! Needless to say, the book club has become a success. “It... READ MORE >

UA REPORT RANKS SPRINGDALE NO. 1 IN ACADEMIC GROWTH Students in Springdale schools rank No. 1 in the region in grade level advancement over a 12-month period. That means Springdale students make greater academic advances from one year to the next than students attending the other public school districts in Washington and Benton Counties. This news comes from the... READ MORE >

Lisa Cox, a teacher at Childers Knapp Elementary and Carla Tate, the school’s counselor, are very good friends. However, not even their deep friendship could have prepared Lisa for a project Carla launched to benefit Lisa’s son. Ayden Cox, a fifth grader at Shaw Elementary, was born with muscular dystrophy. His father, Chris, has it, too. His sister, Caitlan, a... READ MORE >

Robby Ariola always has enjoyed his work. He served in several positions at Harp’s Food Stores and other places for 28 years and appreciated every day of his previous career. But after “arthritis got me,” he became a fulltime bus driver for Springdale Public Schools. He says, “It’s the best job I’ve had in my life.” Really? Driving a school bus is the best job... READ MORE >

Knox Graham is a busy young man. He is heavily involved in EAST and debate as a ninth grader at Central Junior High. He also plays the trumpet in the school band. He knows he has a lot of work ahead but he already is focused on his future dream. He wants to represent Northwest Arkansas in the United States House of Representatives. “I am very politically minded,”... READ MORE >

Jose Ballesteros got pushed into driving a bus for the Springdale School District. Now he recommends others give it a try. He loves his job because of the people he works with and the students he has the pleasure of transporting. “Five years ago a friend got me started,” says Ballesteros. “He pushed me into driving for Springdale Schools. He left and I am still... READ MORE >

Joel Lookadoo taught ninth grade algebra for six years at Lakeside Junior High. He liked it so much he gave up coaching basketball to devote his entire energy to helping students with math. Now his role has expanded beyond teaching in a single classroom as he begins a new role at the Don Tyson School of Innovation. One of four semi-finalists for Arkansas... READ MORE >

After teaching accounting and other business courses at Springdale High School for over two and a half decades, Kelley Williamson coordinates the Career and Technical Education teams for the entire Springdale Public School District. She will always be a teacher at heart but her classroom has expanded considerably. “CTE is a high priority in our district,” says... READ MORE >

When Mike Fotenopulos graduated from Fort Smith Southside High School, he wanted to go to college but wasn’t ready. Instead he joined the Air Force before returning and earning a degree at the University of Arkansas. His lack of preparation when he finished high school is a driving force in his effort to prepare students for their futures once they are handed... READ MORE >

Cara Sedberry, choir director at George Junior High for the past 15 years, has been named assistant principal at the school. She replaces Betsy Barker who was named district assistant athletic director. “I want to thank Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins, the administrative staff and the school board for the opportunity to build on the great things that are... READ MORE >

An educator for more than a decade in California, Tom Doppe has been named assistant principal at the Don Tyson School of Innovation. He replaces Damon Donnell who has moved into the position of district Coordinator of Student Support Services. “I couldn’t have landed at a better place,” Doppe said. “This is a great opportunity. Many of the things I was working on... READ MORE >

Damon Donnell, who has served as assistant principal at the Don Tyson School of Innovation for the past two years, has been named District Coordinator of Student Support Services. He replaces Danny Brackett, who resigned to take a position in another district. “I am so excited to have the opportunity to serve Springdale students, parents, faculty and community in... READ MORE >

Betsy Barker, assistant principal at George Junior High School for the past five years, has been named Springdale Public School District assistant athletic director. “I’m excited for the opportunity to serve the entire Springdale School District in a position to impact Springdale athletics,” Barker said. “I have a coaching background along with my administrative... READ MORE >

Westwood students interested in robotics and video games had the time of their lives as their school hosted a week long NERDIES™ camp. Twenty two students were recommended by their teachers based on their interest in robotics or video game development and their exemplary behavior in school to attend the NERDIES™ camp. They were able to attend the camp... READ MORE >

Brett Unger, who has been a teacher, coach and instructional facilitator in the Springdale School District during the last 11 years, has been named assistant principal at Sonora Middle School. He replaces Jonathan Buchanan who was named assistant principal at Southwest Junior High. “I am excited to serve the students, staff and parents of Sonora Middle School,”... READ MORE >

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... READ MORE >

Jonathan Buchanan, current Arkansas Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year and an assistant principal at Sonora Middle School the past seven years, has been named assistant principal at Southwest Junior High. He replaces Shane Patrick who accepted an administrative position in the Siloam Springs School District. “I am very honored to become part of the... READ MORE >

Aterra Lowe, who has served as an instructional facilitator the past two years at Helen Tyson Middle School, has been named assistant principal at Springdale Har-Ber High School. She replaces Jacob Hayward who was named principal at Siloam Springs High School. “I am excited and honored to be a part of the Har-Ber High School staff,” Lowe said. “It is a... READ MORE >

Kim Bowerman, who has served as an instructional facilitator, has been named the assistant principal at Sonora Middle School. She replaces Jason House who accepted a principal position in Alaska. “I am very appreciative of the opportunity that Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins, the Administrative Leadership Team and the Springdale School Board have provided me,”... READ MORE >

Megan Rojo, who has served as an instructional specialist for the past five years, has been named Early Childhood Center assistant director. She replaces Brandy Wolfenbarger who was elevated to the director at the school. “Thank you Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins and the administration team for trusting me in this position,” Rojo said. “I am honored to be a... READ MORE >

Aurelian Sennett, who has served as an instructional facilitator at the Don Tyson School of Innovation, has been named assistant principal at the Don Tyson School of Innovation. He replaces Kelly Boortz, who was elevated to principal at the school. “I would like to thank Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins and the school board for this appointment as well as Mrs.... READ MORE >

Brandy Wolfenbarger, the assistant director of the Early Childhood Center for the past five years, has been named Early Childhood Center director. She replaces Darlene Fleeman who is retiring. “I’m really excited and want to thank Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins and the administrative team for this opportunity,” said Wolfenbarger. “When we moved to Northwest... READ MORE >

Jody Johnson, who has served as an instructional facilitator at George Elementary School for the past four years, has been named assistant principal at Bayyari Elementary. She replaces Mary Mullican who was elevated to principal. “I am very excited to be joining the team at Bayyari,” Johnson said. “I am grateful to Dr. (Superintendent Jim) Rollins, the... READ MORE >

Cassie Marquette, who has served in the J.O. Kelly Middle School math department for the past eight years, has been named assistant principal at Monitor Elementary. She replaces Andi Acuff, who was elevated to principal at the school. Marquette taught sixth grade math for three years before serving as math and science instructional facilitator for the past five... READ MORE >

Lucas Foliart and Thomas Hart were recruited from their seventh grade classrooms at Hellstern Middle School to participate in the Duke TIP program. Both took coaching well and surprised themselves and their families with the results. Foliart discovered he made a 30 on the ACT exam. Delighted and surprised he anticipated besting his friend Hart. Instead,... READ MORE >

Andi Acuff, who has been assistant principal for 12 years at Monitor Elementary, has been named principal of the school. She replaces Maribel Childress who was promoted to assistant superintendent for curriculum, grades pre-k-5. "I am so excited to have the opportunity to continue to serve the students, staff and parents at Monitor Elementary School,"... READ MORE >

Literacy has been alive and well at Sonora Elementary School since the building opened but the Sonora Scholar Student Leadership Team wanted to promote literacy at an even higher level. Through a partnership with Lakeside Junior High teacher Kristin Pennington and her students, two Little Libraries were constructed and installed at Sonora Elementary. “I meet... READ MORE >

Ashley Kirby, who has spent the last 12 years at Smith Elementary as a teacher and instructional facilitator, has been named assistant principal at Tyson Elementary. She replaces Kimberly Crumby who has been selected as principal at Westwood Elementary. “I am very excited to be supporting the amazing things that are happening at Tyson Elementary,” Kirby said. “I am... READ MORE >