The Mena School Board held their March meeting on Tuesday at the Administration Building.
The meeting began with Mr. Ray Beardsley, representing First Security, addressing the board. First Security has served the district as it’s financial advisor for many years & Beardsley expressed their desire to continue that relationship. A motion was made to extend their contract for 3 more years & it was approved.
In the Superintendent’s Report Mr. Benny Weston updated the board on numerous issues affecting the district in the Arkansas Legislative Session. Including current bills being considered by the House Education Committee.
The school choice capacity resolution was passed with no discussion. The financial reports were also approved.
Assistant Superintendent Lee Smith shared revisions to the 2021/2022 school calendar. The main revisions were to move the first day of school to August 16th with the final day being May 27th. The calendar was approved as revised. (be looking for another post including the complete calendar soon)
Personnel was the final & most anticipated item on the agenda. The board accepted the retirement of Pam Gross & Sheila Graves. They also accepted the resignation of bus driver Max Hartwig & approved the transfer of Sam Varner to take over that route.
Building Administrators then presented their recommendations for transfers & new hires on their respective campuses.
Louise Durham Elementary – Jimma Holder
Transfers:
● To Art
○ Sarah Wagner to replace Pat Self at LD and HH
● To Interventionist
○ Patty Oglesby to overcome lost learning
Hires:
○ Shelby Garcia
○ Aileen Sirkis
○ Jaqueline Redfearn
○ Bethany Meaders
○ Abi Tilley
○ Courtney Cates
Holly Harshman Elementary – Tamara Smart
Transfers:
● To Interventionist
○ Amanda Posey to overcome lost learning
● To Third Grade Literacy
○ Donna Golden to maintain standards for class size
● To HH Counselor
○ Tonya Thacker from MHS to replace Vicky Maye
Hires:
● Fourth Grade Math
○ Brianna Peters to replace Sheila Graves
● Fifth Grade Literacy
○ Erika Williams to keep current configuration of Fifth Grade
● Fourth Grade Literacy
○ Liberty Jacot to replace Donna Golden
Mena Middle School-Todd Coogan
Hires:
● Assistant Principal
○ Teresa Warner to replace Todd Coogan
● Sixth Grade Math Teacher
○ Reagan Sikes to replace Robin Ponder
Mena High School – Bridget Buckley
Hires:
● Assistant Principal
○ Amy Montgomery to replace Bridget Buckley
● Lead Counselor (12 month)
○ Shannon Lyle to replace Pam Gross
All recommendations were approved by the board & the meeting was adjourned.