The Mena School Board met for their regular September meeting on Tuesday in the library at Holly Harshman Elementary.
As usual the meeting began with the Superintendent’s Report. Dr. Lee Smith turned the floor over to Amber Labertew, Tamara Smart & Bridget Buckley.
Labertew reported on the positive developments within the Alternative Education Program, highlighting significant student achievements and community engagement. Notably, K-2 students are transitioning back to general education at the fastest rate, and a student from Holly Harshman was recognized as 'student of the week.' High school students demonstrated commendable attendance, with several achieving near or perfect attendance this semester. Additionally, a previously chronically absent student has improved to near-perfect attendance, and another student, despite facing personal challenges, remains committed to graduating this year. The discussion emphasized the importance of fostering community involvement to create more opportunities for student engagement.
Mrs. Smart focused on celebrating teacher achievements and discussing the importance of feedback and recognition at Holly Harshman. A key decision was made to print and share teacher feedback to emphasize their mutual support. The school has officially improved its grade from a C to a B, reflecting significant progress amidst various challenges affecting performance metrics. Additionally, a dedicated block for writing and grammar was established to further enhance student learning outcomes.
Buckley shared the latest academic report. Featuring student growth scores, particularly in middle school math, where the majority of students achieved a score of three or four on the Atlas assessment, indicating the effectiveness of current teaching methods. In addition, 3rd grade showed significant growth in Math with one classroom achieving 80% growth for all students and 68% achievement. To further enhance student engagement and growth, teachers will observe these classrooms to support instructional strategies that work and create networking opportunities for staff. Additionally, concern has been raised regarding kindergarten readiness, with 80% of kindergarteners not meeting expected levels at the beginning of the year. However, data shows that our strategies and instruction are effective in growing students so that they are prepared when they reach first and second grades. District professional learning coaches will continue to support teachers in implementing effective strategies and interventions during designated instructional times across the district specifically in Math and Literacy.
Next the board approved the 2024-2025 financial report and the budget for 2025-2026.
The board also approved a three year contract with Beardsley Finance as the district’s financial advisor.
Superintendent Dr. Lee Smith was approved to represent the district on the board of the DeQueen Mena Education Service Cooperative.
District Maintenance Supervisor Mr. Danny Minton reported on the latest projects. Specifically addressing the installation of sidewalks and ramps, as well as necessary drainage fixes. MInton also highlighted the installation of additional fencing between the gym and the main building at HHE to ensure that children remain contained within the playground area.
Dr. Smith then reminded the board of upcoming training dates scheduled for October 7th & November 4th.
The board next approved the latest financial report. With Dr. Smith reporting a good August with revenue exceeding expenses by $500,000.00.
In Personnel the board accepted the resignation of Amy Dollar, Social Studies Teacher at MMS.
The Board approved the restructuring of the contract for Bus Driver Charity Mabry from Route 4 to Route 13.
Finally the board approved the hiring of
Dale Early Ford as Custodian at Mena High School.
Charmaine Martin as Social Studies Teacher at Mena Middle School.
Karen Parnell as Secondary Special Education Facilitator.