The Mena School Board met for its regular March meeting on Tuesday in the district administration building. The Meeting was the first for new board members Calvin Cummings and Brian Hensley.
The meeting began with Superintendent Dr. Lee Smith recognizing Mena Middle School Counselor Leilani Rose and a pair of students from the Project Prevent Team. The group presented a slide show focused on the Project Prevent initiative, highlighting its purpose to prevent tobacco use among students. Mrs. Rose and team members discussed various activities and events organized to promote healthy choices.
Dr. Smith then turned the floor over to Assistant Superintendent Bridget Buckley, who updated the board on the recent ATLAS assessments. Highlighting significant improvements over state averages.
In new business, Dr. Smith introduced the Mena City Center Plan to the board. Smith pointed out its potential benefits, such as a stronger tax base, housing, and enrollment stability.
Next, the board considered a proposal for new photography services for school pictures. The board approved a bid by Lela Nordyke Photography.
The board then voted to establish the Mena Public Schools Hall of Honor. This will be a recognition program for graduates, teachers, and athletes who have excelled while at the Mena Public Schools and beyond.
District Maintenance Supervisor Danny Minton then updated the board on projects around the district. Minton reported wind damage had occurred over the weekend at Holly Harshman Elementary. He will be following up with the fence company and contacting the roofing company regarding leaks. The district is also awaiting word from the insurance company on repairs to damage caused by the February ice storm.
Next on the agenda was a report on the recent audit. Dr. Smith stated that the district received a good report with no findings or irregularities.
The board quickly approved the most recent financial reports. Dr. Smith stated that the month of February saw expenses outpacing revenue and that he expected the same in March, but that the district remains on course and on budget for the year.
The board then went into executive session to discuss personnel.
Upon returning from executive session, the board accepted the retirement of Mena Middle School Teacher Tommy Johnson. They also approved the resignation of:
Jordan Trinidad-6th Grade Literacy & Social Studies Teacher
Amy Martin-7th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Holly Cummings-LDE Paraprofessional
Alana Mrugala-Mental Health Specialist
The board also renewed certified contracts for 2026-2027.
Finally, there was a re-organization of the school board, with the following nominations being accepted and approved.
Ty Plunkett - President
Reed Mendoza - Vice President
Calvin Cummings - Secretary
Calvin Cummings was also appointed to the Facilities Committee, and Brian Hensley was appointed to the PPC Committee.
At the conclusion of the meeting, board member Kyle Cannon resigned from the board.