Bearcat Wrap-up Podcast

Happy Friday!

As we close out the week before Thanksgiving Break, I want to pause and express my appreciation for the people who give our district its strength. Throughout this semester, we have talked about purpose, preparation, day-to-day improvement, shared confidence, and the steady work that leads to real progress. Every one of those themes only matters because of the people who show up each day to carry them forward.

I am thankful for our staff, who continue to support students through the challenges and opportunities of this year. You have kept your focus on learning, you have pushed through the busy fall semester, and you have shown the perseverance that we value as a district. Your work is visible in classrooms, hallways, buses, offices, fields, and stages. You help prepare our students for their future, and you help our community remain confident in our mission.

I am thankful for our students, who rise to expectations, overcome setbacks, and remind us why our vision matters. From early literacy to career pathways, they are demonstrating growth that comes from daily effort. Their progress is the clearest evidence that our shared purpose is moving forward.

I am thankful for our community, which continues to support our schools through volunteerism, events, and partnerships. The strength of Mena Public Schools has always been found in the bond between school and community, and this semester has proven once again that we do not work alone.

As we enter Thanksgiving Week, I want to encourage everyone to make time for rest, family, and reflection. When we return, we will continue our work with renewed energy, strengthened by what we have already accomplished this semester.

From Thanksgiving lunches to the Book Character Parade, the Career Expo, and a memorable performance of The Hobbit, it was a strong week of commitment at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a safe and restful Thanksgiving Break!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Thank you for your hard work this week and for your continued dedication to our mission. We have kept a steady focus on our district performance targets in attendance, discipline, and academic growth, and it is encouraging to see progress in all three areas. Each building has maintained strong attendance as we enter November, discipline referrals remain below last year’s levels, and teachers continue to work with precision and purpose toward improved student outcomes. Your consistency and care are the foundation for our students’ success, and I want to thank you for that commitment.

This week, we reviewed the ATLAS Interim Assessment results for English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science. These midyear assessments help us gauge alignment to standards, adjust pacing, and ensure that all students are progressing toward mastery. The data provides both affirmation of what is working and direction for where our attention is needed next. We will use Monday’s professional development day to study these results more closely, identify priority needs in each building, and plan the next phase of instruction. It should be a productive and purposeful day of preparation for the weeks ahead. Now, we will discuss our results.

District Results

Districtwide, Mena Public Schools continues to perform above the state average across tested subjects. Although only about 45 percent of standards have been taught so far, our students are already showing deep understanding of key concepts and growing confidence in their learning.

Compared with state averages, Mena students are outperforming peers statewide in every tested subject, particularly in Science and English Language Arts.

These outcomes confirm that our focus on aligned instruction, data-informed teaching, and consistent pacing is working. Students are not only meeting expectations, but they are also learning how to reason, apply knowledge, and communicate their thinking.

Comparing This Year to Last Year

When compared with Fall 2024, districtwide results show meaningful improvement in every tested area.

Bright Spots

These gains represent meaningful movement for our students. Approximately 120 more students reached proficiency in English Language Arts, about 85 more students did so in Mathematics, and around 60 additional students met or exceeded expectations in Science. This upward shift shows clear evidence that our instructional efforts are helping more learners reach the next level.

ELA: Level 1 dropped by seven points, and Level 4 (advanced) rose from 4 percent to 6 percent. This shows that Science of Reading strategies and shared writing efforts are producing consistent gains across grade levels.

Math: Students continue to progress through the performance levels, especially in multi-step reasoning and real-world problem-solving. Foundational numeracy in elementary grades is translating into success in middle school and high school coursework.

Science: Advanced performance (Level 4) grew from 7 percent to 10 percent, a significant increase in students demonstrating deep conceptual understanding. Despite fewer students testing last year, the upward pattern remains strong.

Areas of Emphasis

Our next area of focus will be helping every student move to the next level of achievement, especially supporting those at Level 2 (basic understanding) in reaching Level 3 (proficient understanding). Growth at every level matters, and progress begins when students see themselves as capable learners who can influence their own outcomes.

Teachers will continue to use item-level reports in PLCs to identify which standards and skills need reinforcement. However, our emphasis extends beyond instruction. It is about motivation, mindset, and momentum.

Research from John Hattie’s Visible Learning identifies the strategies with the highest impact on student growth:

* Timely, specific feedback (effect size 0.70): Students improve fastest when they understand what they did well and what their next step should be.

* Goal setting and success criteria (0.68): Students who can articulate their learning targets are more likely to persist and self-correct.

* Teacher–student relationships (0.52): Belonging and trust create a climate where students take academic risks.

* Collective efficacy (1.57): When teachers and students share the belief that effort leads to achievement, classrooms become engines of upward movement.

Motivation grows when learning feels visible and success feels personal. Teachers can foster this by:

* Displaying growth trackers or classroom progress visuals that celebrate upward movement.

* Encouraging student-led reflections where learners describe what they have mastered and what they aim to master next.

* Using “next level” language in conversation and feedback to emphasize that growth, not perfection, defines success.

* Providing choice and voice in assignments and projects so students can connect learning to their interests and strengths.

Every student can advance when instruction is intentional, feedback is actionable, and success feels attainable. When we make progress visible and personal, we cultivate perseverance and pride in learning.

Connecting to Our Mission

These strategies align with who we are as a district. Our students are prepared when they understand their goals and how to reach them. Our staff is supported when collaboration and feedback guide instructional decisions. Our community is confident when it sees students growing not only in scores, but also in determination, self-belief, and purpose.

By focusing on moving every student up, we reinforce our mission to help each learner develop the skills, confidence, and character to contribute meaningfully to their future and to our community.

Pacing and Progress

At this point in the school year, approximately 45 percent of annual standards have been taught across core subjects. This slower fall pacing is usual, but it allows time for building foundational understanding before spring acceleration. As we enter the second semester, pacing will increase across all grades to cover the remaining standards in time for state testing.

ELA: Reading and writing units will continue to spiral, allowing students to apply previously learned comprehension and grammar skills to increasingly complex texts.

Math: The spring semester introduces heavier integration of algebraic reasoning and geometry applications. Students will shift from skill acquisition to mastery through practice, modeling, and problem-solving.

Science: Instruction transitions from concept exploration to application. Students will engage more frequently in labs, modeling tasks, and cross-domain investigations that align with DOK 3 and DOK 4 expectations.

This pacing model ensures that students not only reach content coverage but also develop a deeper, more durable understanding. It balances the need for mastery with readiness for the ATLAS and state summative assessments in April.

Looking Ahead

The ATLAS interim data provides a clear midyear checkpoint to celebrate progress and plan our next steps. Every subject area and every building shows growth from last year, which means our work is unified and effective. As spring instruction accelerates, we will maintain our commitment to purposeful pacing, responsive teaching, and shared accountability for learning outcomes.

Mena Public Schools is performing with purpose because of the dedication of our educators and the perseverance of our students. Together, we are ensuring that every student continues to grow in confidence and capability.

Closing Celebrations

We enjoyed a strong community sendoff for our Bearcat football team as they headed to Hamburg for the first round of the 4A State Playoffs. Thank you to everyone who stepped outside, lined the walkways, and gathered in the stadium lot to show support. The team takes the field tonight, and we look forward to another great game.

Our high school Theatre and Art Departments have been preparing for this weekend’s production of The Hobbit, working together to bring Middle-earth to life. While the art students craft sets and props, the actors have been putting in long hours to learn lines, refine scenes, and develop their characters. Their teamwork, creativity, and commitment to the story are evident in every part of the production, and we hope families will join us to support their work.

Journalism and broadcast students attended a sports media workshop at Ouachita Baptist University, gaining insight from professionals across collegiate and national platforms. These opportunities help students see future pathways and deepen skills they are developing in class.

We also appreciate the many volunteers from our community who supported our schools this week, including those who contributed donations to FCCLA for students served by regional foster-care partners. Acts of service like these strengthen the partnership between our schools and the families we serve and remind our students that they are supported by an entire community that cares about their success.

Our choir students represented Mena well at the Junior High and Senior High All-Region clinics, performing with discipline and pride. Their hard work reflects the commitment we see in all of our fine arts programs.

Basketball season is underway, and our teams have already posted several early wins. We encourage everyone to come out and support our athletes as they continue their seasons.

It was a good week of growth at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a safe and restful weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

As we move deeper into the fall semester, I want to thank everyone for the steady, day-by-day effort that defines Mena Public Schools. Whether you are teaching, driving, feeding, cleaning, supporting, or leading, the work you do matters. It matters to the children who look forward to seeing you each day, to the families who trust us, and to the community that counts on us to help shape its future.

This has been a week of reflection and recognition, and there is much to celebrate. Our district’s progress is evident in both the data and the daily examples of professionalism I see across our campuses. We have also received more state accountability results, and they tell a story of progress, perseverance, and opportunity for continued growth.

District Report Card Results – A “B” for Mena

This week, the Arkansas Department of Education released the 2024–2025 District Report Cards, and I am pleased to share that Mena Public Schools earned a “B” rating. Only thirty-six percent of districts statewide reached that level, which reflects the strong, sustained effort of our teachers, support staff, and leaders in every building.

This system was created through Act 474 of 2025, legislation passed in the most recent General Assembly that now requires all public school districts and education service cooperatives to receive an A–F letter grade based on student achievement, growth, graduation and readiness, and equity. The change aligns with the LEARNS Act and provides a more complete picture of each district’s performance.

Mena’s results reflect steady, measurable improvement. In Achievement, our students scored above the state average in all tested areas—35 percent in English Language Arts, 43 percent in Math, and 44 percent in Science. In Growth, which measures individual student progress, 65 percent of students met math targets and 49 percent met science targets, both above the state average. Our Success-Ready Graduate indicator, combining graduation and postsecondary readiness, reached 56 percent, slightly above the state’s 55 percent average.

To remind you, our two elementary schools, Louise Durham and Holly Harshman, each earned B ratings, while Mena Middle and Mena High School earned C ratings—placing our district in the upper range across Arkansas. There were no D’s or F’s anywhere in our system.

While we celebrate these results, we also recognize where our work continues. Our achievement rates, though higher than state averages, still mean that fewer than half of students are performing at or above grade-level expectations. That is the challenge before us—to turn strong growth into mastery. Growth shows that our instruction is moving students forward; achievement shows how many have reached the goal. The connection between the two is the purposeful, daily instruction that sharpens focus, builds confidence, and leads every student to success.

Letter grades and full data for every district and school in Arkansas are publicly available at https://myschoolinfo.arkansas.gov.

The site provides detailed information on student demographics, academic performance, growth trends, graduation rates, and readiness indicators. I encourage staff and community members to explore it and join us in celebrating how far we have come, and in understanding where our continued attention can make the greatest impact.

This “B” is both a mark of achievement and an invitation to keep improving. It confirms that our foundation is strong and our direction is right, but also that our purpose is unfinished. With steady focus, collaboration, and determination, we will continue to move from good to great.

Opportunities and Engagement

November brings several exciting opportunities that align with our mission to prepare students for success through purpose-driven learning.

Arkansas Applied Campaign (AAC)The Arkansas Applied Campaign continues through December, supporting high-school seniors as they complete college, career, and military applications. This statewide initiative especially helps first-generation, low-income, and rural students take their next steps beyond graduation. Teachers and counselors play an essential role by encouraging participation in #WhyApply Day, FAFSA Frenzy, and College Signing Day events. You can learn more in this link.

#ARinNOV8STEM Outdoor STEM Exploration ChallengeIn recognition of National STEM Day (November 8), the Arkansas Department of Education and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission invite classrooms to take part in the #ARinNOV8STEM Social Media Challenge. Teachers can post photos of students exploring nature and applying STEM principles in outdoor learning. Submissions are due by 3 PM on November 12, and selected classes may receive a visit from the Game and Fish Commission’s Cave Simulation experience. To participate, click here.

Presidential AI ChallengeThe Presidential AI Challenge, part of the national AI.gov initiative, recognizes innovative school-based AI projects that promote problem-solving, creativity, and responsible technology use. Here in Mena, our computer-science students are participating in another no-code hackathon through the end of this month, continuing the innovation and teamwork that began with our district’s NYX No-Code event last spring.

Our Opportunity to Grow Together

In addition to celebrating our achievements, we also have opportunities to strengthen them. The Casey’s Cash for Classrooms Grant is now open, offering $3,000 to $50,000 for projects that enhance facilities, provide classroom materials, expand professional development, or increase community engagement. Applications are due November 14, 2025, with awards announced next spring.

Teachers or community partners who have project ideas aligned with these priorities are encouraged to reach out for support in preparing an application. Opportunities like this allow us to take what we already do well and extend it even further.

Closing Celebrations and Staffing Notes

Our Food Service Department is also working on a thoughtful plan to assist students who may be impacted by the ongoing government shutdown. The team is exploring ways to make leftover food available to students in need, while ensuring that all practices remain fully compliant with federal food service regulations. Their proactive approach reflects the care and compassion that define our district. More information about this initiative will be shared soon.

Congratulations to our elementary spelling bee winners from Louise Durham Elementary and Holly Harshman Elementary. These students demonstrated focus, preparation, and poise throughout their competitions, earning the opportunity to represent their schools at the next level. We are proud of their hard work and look forward to cheering them on as they continue to represent Mena with confidence and excellence.

This week has been filled with several other accomplishments and pride. Our Cross Country teams represented Mena well at the 4A State Meet in Hot Springs, competing with determination and finishing the season strong. At Louise Durham Elementary, preschool students in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program continue to build a love for reading, with many already surpassing 100 books this year—an early start that reflects our district-wide commitment to literacy and the #menareads movement. Meanwhile, both Mena High School and Mena Middle School FCCLA chapters attended the Leadership in Action “Hands that Serve – Hearts that Lead” event at Acorn High School, where students learned about leadership, service, and community impact. The Middle School FCCLA earned special recognition by winning the Community Service Award for donating the largest amount of toiletries to families in need. On the field, our 7th Grade Bearcat Football Team finished their season with a decisive 22–0 victory over Mansfield, and tonight we celebrate our senior cheer and football athletes and band members as Mena Football hosts Dardanelle at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium for Senior Night. Congratulations to all of our students and coaches who continue to represent Mena with excellence, sportsmanship, and pride.

Finally, I want to share an important reminder about our substitute shortage. We continue to face a high number of unfilled daily vacancies, which means teachers and staff are covering classes and missing planning periods to keep instruction running smoothly. Our substitute service has new people in the pipeline, but most are still completing their onboarding. Until those additional substitutes are ready, please be mindful when scheduling leave, and let your administration know in order to plan ahead so we can minimize strain on others. I appreciate the teamwork and professionalism you continue to show in supporting one another and maintaining stability for our students.

It was a good week of improvement at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a safe and restful weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Halloween Friday!

Thank you for the continued effort and energy you bring to your work each day. The fall semester is moving quickly, and with just over a month until the holiday break, your commitment continues to move our district toward its performance targets—steady academic growth, attendance at or above 93.5 percent, and consistent improvement in school climate and behavior. Each week brings new signs of progress, and that progress is the result of your focus, consistency, and care.

This week’s Wrap-up connects several important themes. We will look at new insights into how sleep and rest influence both learning and leadership, explore rising trends in teen anxiety and what the latest research reveals about the balance between rest and resilience, and highlight opportunities from the Arkansas Historical Association that recognize excellence in teaching and student engagement. Finally, as Halloween brings joy and creativity to our elementary schools, we are reminded that wellness and celebration are both vital parts of a healthy learning culture.

Eye-opening Data About Eye-closing (Sleep)

This week’s theme grew from a Zoom presentation I attended by Dr. Eric Saunders, who now serves with the Arkansas Activities Association and previously worked for the Arkansas Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as Assistant Secretary. Dr. Saunders shared compelling research on the connection between sleep, performance, and mental health—not only for students but also for educators. His presentation was a reminder that some of the most powerful interventions for well-being and achievement are also the simplest.

The data on sleep are eye-opening. Studies show that students who get fewer than seven hours of sleep a night are twice as likely to experience poor grades, difficulty focusing, and increased behavioral issues. For adults, the effects are equally strong: educators who regularly sleep fewer than six hours a night report higher levels of stress, reduced patience, and diminished ability to concentrate on complex tasks.

Sleep is not simply rest; it is recovery. During deep sleep, the brain consolidates new learning, processes emotion, and restores energy to the systems that help us think, problem-solve, and show empathy. For students, this means that the lessons we teach today are strengthened not only through review and practice but also through a good night’s sleep. For teachers, it means that our best ideas and most compassionate moments are often born from the hours we spend recharging.

Recent studies also show a concerning rise in teen anxiety and disrupted sleep. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 11 percent of U.S. children ages 3–17 have a diagnosed anxiety disorder, and nearly one-third of teens report symptoms of severe anxiety. Research continues to confirm that poor sleep and excessive nighttime screen use are central contributors.

In The Anxious Generation, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt describes what he calls a “rewiring of childhood.” He explains that today’s young people face overprotection in the real world and underprotection in the virtual world, a combination that has left many students restless, overstimulated, and under-rested. He writes,

“People do not get depressed when they face threats collectively; they get depressed when they feel isolated, lonely, or useless.”

This insight connects directly to what we see in classrooms. Many students live in a state of near-constant digital stimulation yet experience fewer opportunities for connection, reflection, and rest. The same environment that floods their attention often robs them of sleep.

As educators, we can model balance. Well-rested teachers project calm, patience, and optimism. Well-rested students are more alert, more resilient, and more capable of learning. Our mission calls for prepared students, staff who are supported, and a confident community. Preparedness and confidence both depend on renewal.

When we close our eyes, our bodies and minds recover. When we open our eyes to what the data show, we recognize that the path to higher achievement includes rest as much as rigor.

The Sleep-Anxiety Connection

The following summary highlights recent research connecting the quality of sleep with rising levels of anxiety among children and adolescents. These findings help us better understand how rest, screen habits, and emotional health influence classroom performance and overall well-being. The goal is to encourage both educators and families to view healthy sleep not as a luxury, but as an essential factor in learning, behavior, and personal growth.

KEY FINDINGS

* 1 in 3 teens report experiencing symptoms of anxiety each year, and 1 in 10 children (ages 3–17) have a diagnosed anxiety disorder. (CDC, 2024)

* Adolescents who sleep less than 7 hours per night are twice as likely to show signs of poor academic performance and emotional dysregulation. (National Sleep Foundation, 2024)

* Increased nighttime screen use correlates directly with shorter sleep duration and higher anxiety levels. (Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2024)

KEY TAKEAWAY

Healthy sleep strengthens focus, mood, and learning. Encouraging balanced routines, both for students and for ourselves, builds a calmer, more confident school community.

Opportunities in Arkansas History Education

The Arkansas Historical Association is inviting submissions for two exciting opportunities that celebrate excellence in teaching and learning Arkansas history.

* James H. Atkinson Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Arkansas History – Recognizes outstanding elementary or secondary educators who teach a course in Arkansas history. The winner will receive a certificate and a $1,000 prize, with the ceremony scheduled for April 10, 2026, in Monticello.Deadline: January 15, 2026

* Student/Teacher Scholarship Grant – Supports teachers and students attending the 85th Annual Arkansas Historical Association Conference, “Arkansas at Work: Histories of Labor, Land, and Learning,” held April 9–11, 2026, in Monticello. Three $300 scholarships will be awarded to assist with lodging, meals, and registration.Deadline: February 15, 2026

More information and entry forms are available at arkansashistoricalassociation.org or by contacting [email protected].

Closing Celebrations

This has been an active and uplifting week across Mena Public Schools. Our elementary students enjoyed a week of excitement and creativity as classrooms celebrated Halloween with parties, costumes, and activities that brought joy to students and teachers alike. These moments remind us that learning and laughter often work hand in hand. It was also Red Ribbon Week, and I want to extend sincere appreciation to our school counselors for organizing such meaningful events and to the local businesses and organizations who provided support and sponsorships. Their partnership helps reinforce our shared message of making safe, healthy choices and staying drug-free.

Our student organizations and academic programs continue to shine in meaningful ways. The Mena FFA Chapter is representing our community proudly at the 98th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, where their experiences have been both educational and inspiring. Mena High School juniors and seniors attended the College Fair at UA Rich Mountain, meeting representatives from colleges and universities across Arkansas and exploring future pathways. Fourth-grade GT students visited the Mena Municipal Airport to connect their Civil Air Patrol lessons to real-world aviation and career learning. These experiences reflect the dedication of our teachers and the strong partnerships that help extend classroom learning into the community.

Our athletic programs also had a strong week of competition. The Ladycat Volleyball Team completed an outstanding season, advancing to the state tournament quarterfinals and earning a conference championship along the way. The Mena Cross Country Team competed in the Tom Stuthard Top 25 Meet in Acorn, where we had two top ten finishers. Our 7th-grade and Junior High Bearcats both earned victories over Clinton last night. Bearcat Football closes out the week tonight, on Halloween, at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium against Clinton, and we look forward to seeing a strong community turnout in support of our team.

It was a good week of discovery at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a safe and restful weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Thank you for the consistency and professionalism you continue to demonstrate each week. There were no major events on the calendar. Still, the steady rhythm of teaching, learning, and leading has continued uninterrupted, and that is often where the most significant progress takes place. Every attendance reminder, every reteaching moment, and every calm response to a student’s frustration contributes to the stability our students depend on. Together, we are proving that slow, deliberate effort produces lasting results.

Our district continues to stay focused on the same three performance targets that define our mission: academic growth, attendance at or above 93.5 percent, and continued improvement in student behavior and school climate. These goals provide the framework for how we measure our collective progress and guide the adjustments we make each week. As we close this first full quarter of the school year, it is clear that steady commitment from our staff is building lasting improvement across every school.

The Science of Steady

The Science of Steady reminds us that growth is rarely dramatic or immediate. Like any long-term experiment, our work requires patience, precise observation, and a willingness to refine rather than reinvent. Teachers are scientists in this sense—testing ideas, adjusting variables, and collecting evidence in the form of student understanding. The power of this method lies not in speed but in fidelity. When we hold steady through the process, the results compound. A class that reads daily, a grade level that collaborates weekly, or a school that analyzes data consistently will always outperform one that moves in spurts of intensity.

Across the district, our work this semester shows the effectiveness of this approach. Attendance has held near our target despite the season’s illnesses. Behavior incidents remain manageable, with most students responding positively to our plans and expectations. Instructional pacing and formative checks are helping identify needs before they become gaps. These are not small achievements; they are signs of a system learning to self-correct through steady leadership at every level.

Steadiness is also about balance, holding firm to what works while remaining open to what can improve. Our students and staff continue to show that progress is made not through sudden leaps, but through intentional, day-to-day practice. That is the science behind lasting success, and it is evident in every classroom across Mena Public Schools.

Closing Celebrations

Steady connection remains one of our greatest strengths. At Holly Harshman Elementary, students continue their regular visits to the Green House Cottages of Homewood to play games and spend time with residents. These moments bridge generations and bring joy to both age groups, reminding us that patience, kindness, and presence are learned by doing. That same spirit shows up across campuses as high school and middle school student organizations serve in our elementary buildings, reading with younger students, assisting teachers, and modeling leadership through quiet, consistent help.

Classrooms stayed active and hands-on this week. First graders learned about government with a visit from our Sheriff and our Mayor, connecting civics to daily life and public service. Fourth-grade scientists put new stream tables to work from a recent STEM grant, modeling river erosion and testing how small changes in flow create big changes in the landscape. Our future educators represented Mena at the Educators Rising Fall Leadership Conference in Little Rock, sharpening skills in leadership, professionalism, and community service.

October is also Economics Education Month, a time to recognize the importance of financial literacy and economic understanding in every grade level. Mena Public Schools is fortunate to have Mrs. Tracy Floyd serving as an Economics Arkansas Ambassador, representing our district in statewide efforts to bring real-world economics into the classroom. Many of our teachers use Economics Arkansas resources for professional development, lesson planning, and student contests, helping students connect classroom learning to the choices they make every day. These lessons in decision-making, entrepreneurship, and resource management prepare our students not only for academic success but for life.

Our students also continue to serve others. Bearcats Supporting Bearcats used donations from this year’s Powder Puff game to purchase hygiene products for students in every building. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this thoughtful project and helped ensure that all students have what they need to feel confident and cared for.

Our #menareads effort continues to grow, and it has been encouraging to see so many posts celebrating students who are reading, writing, and sharing their progress. The steady stream of photos and videos across our schools shows that reading is becoming part of our culture, not just a classroom activity. I want to thank the teachers and staff who have made this visible by organizing reading challenges, spotlighting student readers, and modeling a love of literacy themselves. Each post represents more than participation; it reflects the collective commitment to building confident, capable readers across every grade level.

In athletics, the Junior Bearcats earned a 44–32 victory over Dover at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium and will travel to Clinton next week. Our cross-country teams competed at the Buck Fever Showcase and continue to show steady improvement, and our Ladycat Volleyball team has advanced to the 4A State Tournament. Bearcat Football travels to Dover tonight for a 7:00 p.m. kickoff. Thank you to our students, coaches, sponsors, and families who support steady progress in practice, competition, and character.

As a reminder, Mena Public Schools will be closed on Monday, October 27, as part of our modified calendar. These scheduled Mondays or Fridays each month are designed to support attendance and overall student and staff well-being. By providing families a built-in day for medical and personal appointments, we reduce the need for absences during instructional days and help maintain consistent attendance throughout the year. Extending the weekend also allows additional time for deep cleaning of facilities, which helps limit the spread of seasonal illness. Teachers use this time for planning, grading, and preparation, ensuring that instruction during the week remains focused and purposeful. These short breaks are intentional, not interruptions to learning, but part of the rhythm that keeps our district steady, healthy, and productive.

It was a good week of steady growth at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a great long weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Thank you for the energy, effort, and commitment you continue to bring each day. As we move beyond the first quarter of the school year, it is a meaningful time to pause, reflect, and align our work with the goals we set at the beginning of the year: academic growth, strong attendance, and a positive school culture.

Throughout this week and next, I have been meeting with each building’s leadership to review first-quarter progress and discuss strategies for continued growth. These conversations are centered on reflection and improvement—how we can apply what we have learned during the first nine weeks to finish the year as strong as possible. Across all schools, there is a clear sense of purpose and teamwork. Leaders and teachers are examining data, sharing effective practices, and aligning their plans to support stronger outcomes in learning, attendance, and behavior.

These discussions are also helping us focus on the practical work ahead—maintaining pacing in both literacy and math, strengthening reading stamina across all grade levels, expanding interventions for students who need additional support, and ensuring that our professional learning communities are using formative data to guide daily instruction. We are also emphasizing consistent communication with parents, purposeful use of assessment tools, and renewed attention to engagement strategies that keep students motivated and connected to their learning. This level of collaboration and reflection demonstrates our shared commitment to finishing the year with excellence and unity of purpose.

Phones in Focus: Angela Duckworth’s Research and Our Results

Many of you are familiar with Dr. Angela Duckworth, psychologist, researcher, and author of the bestselling book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Her TED Talk, now viewed more than 30 million times, explores the link between perseverance and long-term success, a theme that has guided her research into self-control and achievement across schools, workplaces, and communities.

Dr. Duckworth is now applying that same scientific lens to cell phone use in schools through her national Phones in Focus study. She recently spoke to superintendents across Arkansas to share how this research is unfolding and invited teachers to participate in a nationwide survey available at phonesinfocus.org. In her short video message, she explains how teachers’ voices are shaping this study and announced that she will personally visit schools with high participation rates to highlight their impact.

The Arkansas data already show compelling patterns:

* Schools with stricter phone policies report higher educator satisfaction and fewer classroom distractions.

* Students demonstrate greater self-control and higher GPAs when they modify their environment to reduce phone temptations.

* Arkansas ranks #4 in the nation for participation, with 1,316 educators from 26 percent of schools contributing.

Dr. Duckworth and her team have promised district-specific reports for schools with strong participation, allowing us to see how our own policy compares statewide.

Here at Mena Public Schools, we are already seeing a reduction in discipline incidents, and I would like to understand how much of that improvement may be linked to the cell phone law and our consistent enforcement of policy. Please take a few minutes to complete the Phones in Focus survey. It is open to all staff and takes less than five minutes.

Your input helps place Mena among the schools shaping national research on learning, focus, and self-control. It also positions us for the possibility of a visit from Dr. Duckworth herself—a powerful opportunity to showcase the progress we are making together.

View the Arkansas data presentation here: Phones in Focus – Arkansas Findings (Canva)

Closing Celebrations

It has been a full and exciting week across Mena Public Schools.

Louise Durham Elementary was recognized by the Office for Education Policy (OEP) at the University of Arkansas as a Beating the Odds school for High Overall Growth and High ELA Growth in the Southwest region—an outstanding accomplishment that reflects the dedication of teachers and students alike. This recognition highlights the positive impact that high-quality instruction and consistent expectations are having on student learning.

Holly Harshman Elementary received a thoughtful visit from the James K. Polk Chapter of the DAR, who presented gift baskets and supplies to teachers as part of their annual service project. Their kindness and generosity were a welcome encouragement to our teachers as we move deeper into the semester.

Mena Middle School students in Project Lead The Way and FBLA traveled to the Arkansas Air & Military Museum in Fayetteville, where they connected classroom learning to real-world applications in aviation, STEM, and leadership. The Beginning Choir also delivered a fine performance of Jukebox Time Machine last night—watch the concert here—showcasing their progress, confidence, and joy in performing before a live audience.

Our schools are preparing for the first round of ATLAS Interim assessments beginning next week. Parents and students are encouraged to review test dates and ensure students are rested, ready, and confident. The Mena Band also represented our school and community with pride and professionalism this week, performing at the ASBOA Region VIII Marching Assessment in Fort Smith. Their preparation and stage presence reflect months of dedication and teamwork.

Our athletic programs continue to demonstrate Bearcat determination. The 7th Grade Football Bearcats defeated Waldron 18–0, while the Jr. Bearcats won 30–14. The Sr. Bearcats will play at Waldron tonight, and we look forward to a strong performance under the lights.

The Sr. Ladycat Volleyball Team ended their regular season as Conference Champions and will compete in the 4A South Regional in Magnolia on Monday. The Jr. Ladycats will take the court Saturday in the District Tournament in Malvern. Both teams have represented Mena with effort and sportsmanship, and we wish them continued success.

Cross Country also competed this week at the Tri-County Invitational in Waldron, earning several strong finishes, including an 8th-place result in the Jr. Boys Division. Their continued improvement shows the impact of discipline and steady training.

Finally, our community came together at Fields of Faith this week—a powerful evening of music, testimony, and student leadership that embodied the spirit of unity and purpose we strive to model every day. Events like this remind us that our schools are more than places of learning—they are the heart of our community.

Before closing, I would like to encourage everyone to take a moment to support one of our neighboring schools. Dierks High School has been selected as a finalist in the T-Mobile $1 Million Football Stadium Makeover Contest, and your vote could help make a difference for their students and community. You can read more and cast your daily vote here: Dierks T-Mobile Stadium Makeover. They are in the lead, so please, help them win it!

It was a good week of successes at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming and have a great weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Strong attendance, steady behavior, and meaningful engagement across our schools have made this a successful close to the first quarter. Thank you for the energy, effort, and commitment you continue to bring each day. The pace of the year reminds us how quickly progress builds when focus and consistency are shared. Together, we have reached this first milestone with clear evidence of growth across every building.

Our performance targets—academic growth, attendance at or above 93.5%, and steady improvement in behavior and climate—continue to guide our daily work and measure our collective progress. The District Performance Targets page has been updated this week in preparation for the first round of ATLAS interim assessments, which will take place across the district during the remainder of October. These assessments will help us monitor growth, adjust strategies, and identify supports needed to keep every student on pace for success.

Attendance on the Rise

One of the strongest indicators of progress this quarter is attendance. Each on-site building has surpassed the district goal of 93.5%, and all have improved upon last year’s first-quarter rates.

* Louise Durham Elementary rose from 93.42% to 95.00% (+1.58%).

* Holly Harshman Elementary increased from 93.41% to 94.20% (+0.79%).

* Mena Middle School climbed from 93.85% to 95.41% (+1.57%).

* Mena High School advanced from 93.86% to 95.00% (+1.14%).

These gains reflect intentional work at every level—teachers reaching out early, staff reinforcing expectations, and parents making sure their children are at school each day. Attendance is both a habit and a reflection of trust. The partnership between school and home is the foundation that keeps our students engaged and learning. Maintaining this momentum as we move into the colder months when illness increases will be key to continued academic growth.

Discipline Data Shows Positive Climate Trends

Our discipline comparison for the first nine weeks shows continued improvement in student behavior and climate. Total incidents have decreased from 397 last year to 346 this year, a reduction of 12.8%.

The most significant declines occurred in:

* Fighting and Altercations (–25)

* Technology and Device Violations (–27)

* Tobacco and Vaping Incidents (–15)

* Vandalism (–10)

* Harassment and Bullying (–12)

These trends indicate stronger relationships, clearer expectations, and a more stable learning environment across our campuses. Areas for continued focus include bus behavior and disorderly conduct, both of which increased this quarter. Ongoing attention to consistency, supervision, and communication will help bring those areas in line with our overall positive trend.

Closing Celebrations and Recognitions

The first quarter closed with outstanding achievements across every campus and program.

At the state level, Louise Durham Elementary, Holly Harshman Elementary, and Mena Middle School were each recognized by the University of Arkansas Office for Education Policy for exceptional academic growth on the ATLAS assessment. These awards reflect the daily commitment of teachers, students, and staff who continue to push forward with purpose and perseverance.

At Louise Durham Elementary, our second grade teachers received the Bessie B. Moore Teaching Award from Economics Arkansas for creating innovative projects that integrate financial literacy into the classroom. This is an accomplishment that speaks to the creativity and dedication of our staff.

Mena Middle School’s FCCLA chapter also earned recognition this week for service and leadership, winning the spirit stick for the most trash collected during the Region 5 Operation Trash Cleanup at Lake DeGray State Park.

In athletics, Bearcat Golf players represented Mena strongly at the 4A State Tournament in Bella Vista, finishing near the top of the field. Ladycat Volleyball finished as tournament runners-up in Paris and earned straight-set victories yesterday at home against Camden Fairview. The Mena Tennis Team wrapped up its season at the 7-4A District Tournament in Arkadelphia with strong play and exceptional sportsmanship, closing the year with senior leadership that laid the foundation for future success. Meanwhile, FFA members have been competing at the Arkansas State Fair with high placements, including class and division winners in several livestock shows, with more to come next week.

This week also featured Homecoming 2025, a spirited celebration of school pride and community connection. The pep rally this morning was high energy, loud, and a lot of fun—so much so that it was perfectly timed with the Natural Hearing Center’s on-site screenings today. After that pep rally, a few of us had to visit their trailer.

We invite everyone to join us tonight for the Homecoming Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium, followed by the Bearcats taking on the Ozark Hillbillies at 7:00 p.m. Come out, support our students, and help make this Homecoming a memorable night for the entire Bearcat community.

Finally, October is National Principals’ Month, and we pause to recognize our four building leaders—David Maxwell, Teresa Warner, Tamara Smart, and Samantha Sellers. Their daily leadership, presence, and care for students and staff make all the difference. Thank you for the countless ways you serve Mena Public Schools and guide our mission forward each day.

Looking Ahead

As we enter the second quarter, we are reminded that improvement happens one day at a time. The progress we see in attendance, behavior, and academic engagement is the result of persistence and shared purpose. Continue to approach each day with clarity and intention, knowing that the habits we build now shape the success that follows.

It was a good week of growth at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming and have a great weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Thank you for the energy, effort, and commitment you continue to bring each day. The year is moving quickly, and we are already approaching the end of the first quarter with 135 instructional days remaining. This is a good moment to pause, take stock, and align our daily work with our performance targets—strong academic growth, attendance at or above 93.5%, and steady improvement in behavior and climate.

I also want to recognize the way many of you are carefully monitoring your own professional growth goals. Just as our district targets are trending in a positive direction, so too are the personal goals you are pursuing in your classrooms. Your dedication to both student progress and professional growth is what keeps us moving forward together.

This week’s Wrap-up focuses on two areas tied directly to that progress: the connections our teachers are creating that shape students’ future opportunities, and the importance of strengthening reading stamina across grade levels.

Building Futures Through Connections

Young people begin to form their vision of the future through the experiences and encouragement they receive in school. Consistent with Social Cognitive Career Theory, students’ aspirations grow from three factors: belief in their abilities, observing relatable role models, and receiving encouragement from others. Every time a teacher affirms a student’s potential, introduces a new opportunity, or models persistence, we shape that student’s belief in what is possible.

Teachers across the district are creating these moments in both real and virtual ways. Some opportunities are in-person: field trips, guest speakers, community professionals visiting classrooms, and hands-on programs such as CTE or robotics. Others are virtual: connecting with mentors through video, exploring careers on digital platforms, or experimenting with AI-powered tools that open new doors to learning. These connections widen horizons, help students see themselves in future roles, and build the confidence needed to pursue goals with purpose.

This work reflects our mission at Mena Public Schools: no dream is diminished or demeaned by another. Every student’s path matters, and it is our responsibility to prepare them by strengthening skills, encouraging confidence, and expanding their vision for the future. Whether their dream is college, trade, military service, or a career here in Polk County, the bridge to that future is built through the connections and habits we help them form today, while staying accountable to our performance targets.

Just as these real and virtual connections open doors for students to see themselves in new futures, they also point us back to one of the most essential skills needed for success in every pathway: reading stamina.

Reading Stamina

At our recent district leadership meeting, we identified a clear need for students to build greater reading stamina. In other words, the ability to sustain focus, comprehension, and effort over longer periods of reading. Many students can manage short passages, but struggle when texts require extended attention. Stamina is essential for success on state assessments, in higher education, and in the workplace, and it directly supports our literacy and growth targets.

Reading stamina develops through intentional practice. Just as athletes train to increase endurance, readers must gradually extend their capacity with support and encouragement. Teachers play a vital role by modeling persistence, scaffolding comprehension, and creating environments where sustained reading is expected and celebrated.

One research-based approach is close reading, which asks students to revisit the same complex text multiple times, each with a different purpose. For example, a first read may focus on general comprehension, while a second read draws attention to vocabulary, structure, or key details. A third read may then shift to analysis of themes, the author’s purpose, or evidence to support an argument. Close-reading activities strengthen stamina because they require students to remain with a text longer, to push deeper into meaning, and to practice persistence when the material becomes challenging. Over time, students learn that comprehension is not always immediate, but can grow richer with multiple, deliberate passes through the same text. Many of our teachers already understand and use these methods effectively; we encourage you to share your practices and help others apply them in their lessons so that students across the district can benefit.

Other strategies also support stamina:

* Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) with teacher modeling encourages daily, uninterrupted reading and builds engagement.

* Gradual time extension, starting small and lengthening reading periods over time, helps students develop endurance without becoming overwhelmed.

There are many other methods to explore, but the essential step is to make stamina a daily priority so every student grows into a confident, capable reader who is prepared for future learning and career opportunities.

Closing Reflections

Thank you for continuing to invest in our students with patience, persistence, and vision. As we near the end of the first quarter, your attention to connections, literacy, attendance, and climate is shaping lives well beyond the walls of our schools.

Closing Celebrations

It has been another exciting week for Bearcat athletics. Our volleyball teams had a strong showing with victories over both Waldron and Arkadelphia at the Union Bank Center, including wins by the 7th-grade, junior, and senior Ladycats, as well as a shutout performance by the senior JV squad. This weekend, both the Jr. Ladycats and Sr. Ladycats will represent Mena in tournament play—the juniors at the River Valley Invitational in Alma and the seniors at the Lady Eagle Invitational in Paris.

Our tennis team also turned in positive results earlier this week against DeQueen and Fountain Lake, showing strong play in both singles and doubles action and continuing to represent Mena well.

On the gridiron, our football team will travel to Lamar tonight to take on the Warriors. For those not making the trip, you can still cheer on the Bearcats by watching the live stream on Bearcat TV.

Beyond athletics, the annual Louise Durham Fall Carnival took place last night and was a well-attended event where parents and their LD students enjoyed an evening of games and treats. A big thank you goes to all of the organizers and volunteers who made it another enjoyable event for our school community.

We also want to remind all staff that the Natural Hearing Center On-site will be here next Friday, October 10th, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the middle school parking lot. Their purpose is to provide free hearing evaluations for anyone who may need them. This service is not only convenient but also an important way to ensure that hearing health does not become a barrier to communication and daily life. Please take advantage of this opportunity if you feel it could benefit you.

It was a good week of understanding at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a good weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Thank you for the energy, effort, and commitment you continue to bring each day. From the classroom to the bus routes, from the ballfields to the offices, the work being done across our district is making a difference. It has been another week of steady progress toward our goals, and I am grateful for the dedication you show to our students and community.

This week’s Wrap-up includes two important topics. First, we want to share an update on the progress we are making with our local Value-Added Measure (VAM) system. This work is key to ensuring we fairly recognize the impact of teachers who do not already receive state-calculated scores. Second, we would like to highlight an exciting opportunity recently announced by the Arkansas Department of Education, the Presidential AI Challenge. This initiative opens the door for our students and staff to showcase innovation on a national stage.

Value-Added Measure (VAM) Progress Update

Over the past several weeks, we have been developing our own district VAM system to measure student growth for teachers who do not already receive a state-calculated VAM score. This system will allow us to recognize the impact of these teachers on student learning and use that evidence to enhance salaries in a fair and meaningful way.

The district model is built on student growth as reflected in ATLAS results. Because reading growth influences every subject, we are using ELA growth as the baseline measure for all teachers in this group. Where math and science results are available, those content-specific scores will be included as well. In order to ensure stability, teachers’ salary indexes tied to VAM will be calculated as a three-year average, just as the state does for core teachers.

As with any system, there are still important questions to resolve. We need to clarify how to account for highly mobile students in a way consistent with the state’s approach. We are also studying how best to measure growth in K–2, where ATLAS testlets do not count toward accountability, and what assessments should be used in grades 11–12, since ATLAS testing ends after 10th grade. These questions will be addressed in the coming weeks, and a complete proposal will be presented to the PPC before the end of October.

As you begin shaping your Professional Growth Plans, remember that our collective focus is on literacy. Every teacher should include evidence of how their practices support reading growth, regardless of the subject taught. Principals will provide additional guidance as you move through your PGP meetings.

This is both an opportunity and a challenge. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the impact of your daily work in the classroom, and a challenge to capture that growth in a way that is consistent, fair, and meaningful across the district.

Presidential AI Challenge

The Arkansas Department of Education has announced the Presidential AI Challenge, a national event designed to engage students, educators, and communities in shaping the future with artificial intelligence. This challenge is both an opportunity and a call to action. Teams may enter at the elementary, middle, high school, or educator level, with options ranging from proposal design to technical solutions. The challenge connects imagination with real-world problem solving and highlights how Arkansas schools can lead in innovation while celebrating 250 years of American independence.

More information, including the full participation guidebook, may be found here.

Closing Celebrations

It has been another great week of accomplishments and activities at Mena Public Schools. Our golf team finished strong at the district tournament with individuals qualifying for state, while the Ladycats earned a solid finish as well. Tennis and volleyball teams both had impressive performances this week, and our Quiz Bowl students represented us with determination at the local tournament.

In our classrooms, students at Holly Harshman Elementary explored science through hands-on experiments and brought books to life by practicing their reading skills in creative ways. Middle school art students collaborated on a Van Gogh–inspired sunflower mural, and high school students worked with a guest artist in pottery while preparing for upcoming theatre productions. FFA members reached important milestones in their leadership development, and many Mena students gathered together in a strong turnout for See You at the Pole.

These celebrations show the wide range of opportunities our students are engaging in—from academics to the arts, athletics, and leadership. We are proud of their efforts and accomplishments. Do not forget that tonight we have a home football game against Pottsville. Come out, show your support, and cheer on the Bearcats.

It was a good week of progress at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a nice long weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com

Happy Friday!

Thank you all for the dedication you have shown as we move into the middle of September. This time of year, the days can begin to feel heavier, and both students and adults sometimes show the strain through shorter tempers, impatience, or discouragement. Yet in these moments, we continue to see patience, encouragement, and empathy shining through in classrooms and hallways. Those small daily choices are what keep our schools strong and our community moving forward.

This week, we also received our state letter grades, which closely relate to our performance targets for the year. In this Wrap-up, we want to highlight what those results mean for each building, the areas that are holding us back from an A, and the mindset we need to carry into the rest of the year, with only 144 instructional days left to make the greatest impact that we can for our students.

School District Letter Grades

The Arkansas Department of Education released 2025 school letter grades for the 2024–2025 year:

* Louise Durham Elementary — B (511.28 points), within 12 points of an A

* Holly Harshman Elementary — B (511.28 points), officially a B with last year’s grade being preliminary and unofficial, which is a point of celebration of hard work and progress

* Mena Middle School — C (441.82 points), just 3.7 points away from a B

* Mena High School — C (400.07 points), with more ground to cover, but every step of growth matters

Louise Durham Elementary’s grade is unique. Although K–2 students at LDES do take summative assessments, the state has not yet developed a reliable way to incorporate those results into the school rating system. Because ATLAS testing does not begin until 3rd grade, the performance of our 3rd graders, who are enrolled at Holly Harshman, feeds back into Louise Durham’s rating. In other words, Louise Durham’s letter grade depends heavily on Holly Harshman’s tested students. This reinforces why early literacy, numeracy, and readiness in K–2 matter so much—they set the stage for what happens in grades 3–5 and beyond.

How School Ratings Are Calculated

The chart below shows how Arkansas calculates school letter grades. Each building is scored across multiple indicators, and the total points determine whether a school earns an A, B, C, D, or F.

* Achievement: How many students score at Level 3 (Proficient) or Level 4 (Advanced) on state assessments in ELA, Math, and Science.

* Growth of All Students: Whether students are meeting their individualized growth targets, regardless of their starting point.

* Growth of the Lowest Quarter: Whether the students who start the furthest behind are catching up to their peers.

* Success Ready Graduate (High School only): Whether students are graduating on time and demonstrating readiness through merit or distinction (such as AP, concurrent credit, CTE concentrators, or the Seal of Biliteracy).

For elementary and middle schools, the formula is built entirely on achievement and growth. For the high school, the formula also weighs graduation rates and readiness measures.

This breakdown helps explain why our district’s biggest challenge right now is ELA performance and growth at the elementary and middle levels, and readiness measures at the high school. It also reinforces the message that every student matters because growth at any level contributes to the total, and those points can impact an entire building’s grade.

What Is Keeping Us from an A?

* Louise Durham Elementary (B, 12 points from an A): Math and science are above the state average. ELA proficiency and growth, particularly in the lowest quartile, remain a barrier. Roughly 14–15 students moving from Level 1 to Level 2 in ELA would be enough to reach an A.

* Holly Harshman Elementary (B, 12 points from an A): Growth and achievement improved enough to move from a C to a B. Like Louise Durham, ELA is the central challenge. About 14–15 more students moving up would push HHES into the A range.

* Mena Middle School (C, 3.7 points from a B): Very close to a B. ELA growth and proficiency are the key levers, especially for the lowest quartile. Only 4–5 students moving levels would make the difference.

* Mena High School (C, 57 points from a B): The largest challenge. Readiness measures are the single biggest factor holding us back. The keys to succes are:

* Graduation rate, and

* Graduating with merit or distinction (via concurrent credit, AP, CTE concentrators, or Seal of Biliteracy).Combined with weak ELA results at the 9th and 10th-grade levels, this is what keeps the high school furthest from a B. Increasing readiness is the clearest path forward.

As we focus on moving Level 1 students upward, it is also important to recognize that moving students from Level 2 to 3, or higher, adds points as well. A student who meets growth expectations while moving up a level contributes not only to achievement but also possibly to growth points. In other words, every level matters, and progress at any point on the scale helps lift your entire school.

The MacGuffin and the Right Mindset

In my back-to-school message, I said our focus this year must stay on students first because when students succeed, the school district succeeds. Letter grades, test scores, and accountability reports capture attention and drive our actions, but like a MacGuffin in a film, they are not the real point of the story. They move the plot along, but they are not the story itself.

The real story is our students: their growth, their readiness for what comes next, and their sense of belonging in our schools. When we keep our eyes on that, the letter grades take care of themselves.

It is easy to let the weight of test results add to the grind of the year. When we dwell on scores, frustration rises, stress builds, and the work feels heavier. But when we focus on helping each student grow, especially moving Level 1 students up while keeping Level 2 students moving forward, the work becomes purposeful and encouraging.

That is the win-win: student growth comes first, and improved letter grades follow as the byproduct.

Closing Celebrations

Congratulations to Mena Middle School for once again being awarded the Project Prevent Mini Grant. This statewide program equips youth with the knowledge and support to live free from tobacco and nicotine while encouraging their peers to do the same. The grant will allow our middle school students to continue leading prevention projects built on the pillars of Prevention, Education, and Leadership, making a positive impact on both their school and community.

We are excited to celebrate this grant and others to be won this year! IMPORTANT: Teachers and other staff, if you are planning to apply for grants, please remember to complete our District Grant Notice to Apply Form before submitting your application.

This step is important because there have been times when a grant check has arrived at the central office made out to Mena School District, but we did not know which school or program it belonged to or how to code it. Completing the form ensures that your funds are processed quickly and deposited where they belong, so you can begin using your grant right away.

We also celebrated National IT Professionals Day this week. Observed on the third Tuesday in September, the day recognizes the often-unsung heroes who keep our school district running behind the scenes. We are grateful for our technology team—Nathan Stone, Chuck Cox, Lorrie Henry, and Cindy Brevik—for their tireless work in keeping our systems running smoothly and supporting staff and students every day.

The Jr. Bearcats football team had a strong showing this week at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium, defeating Russellville 24–14. Congratulations to our student-athletes for their effort and teamwork on the field. Meanwhile, the Mena Ladycats volleyball program had a dominant night on Thursday at the Union Bank Center, with the Jr. Ladycats, Sr. JV Ladycats, and Sr. Ladycats all sweeping Magnolia. The Jr. Ladycat Classic takes place this Saturday in the UBC, and the Sr. Ladycats will face Malvern on Tuesday.

It was a good week of fulfillment at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools, our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming, and have a good weekend!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bearcatwrap.substack.com