Bearcat Wrap-up Podcast

Happy Friday!

Thank you for all you have done this week, both in and out of the classroom, to take advantage of opportunities for growth and learning. Thank you all for the work that is being done to construct lesson plans and strategies to reach the academic goals our ATLAS scores have created for us. These goals will be included with our performance targets, which are updated for the week, but the visual format is yet to be determined. However, within our district’s strategic plan, which will be the bulk of this Wrap-up, we have established our targets. So, beginning with the end in mind, how do we get there? It starts with the vision of what the end looks like so we can develop the strategies to get there.

District Strategic Plan

In our ongoing commitment to provide an exceptional and inclusive educational experience, we now have the valuable resource of ATLAS data and the classroom tool, which allows us to monitor and measure academic progress closely. With this data, we have developed a comprehensive District Strategic Plan designed to support our mission and vision, and I am pleased to outline the key components of this plan for you here in this Wrap-up. The ATLAS tool gives us a comprehensive, evidence-based view of student achievement across grade levels, empowering us to make strategic, data-informed decisions that uphold our mission of preparing students, supporting staff, and instilling community confidence. Beyond academic metrics, we will also continue to monitor attendance, discipline, graduation rates, and the number of career and technical completers. Together, these measures give us a complete picture of our district’s performance, ensuring that every initiative directly supports our shared goals for growth and excellence.

Our academic improvement goals are rooted in enhancing literacy and numeracy across all grade levels, recognizing these as foundational skills for lifelong success. We aim to increase reading proficiency by 10% district-wide for grades K-12, focusing on evidence-based practices, high-quality instructional materials, and targeted interventions. Our literacy approach includes professional development for teachers, collaboration with partners like the Bailey Education Group and the Dequeen Mena Educational Cooperative, and specialized literacy programs like Lexia Core 5 and mClass Amplify. In math, we are implementing core programs like Eureka Math for K-5 and Illustrative Mathematics for grades 6-12, supported by professional learning opportunities to ensure our educators are well-equipped to foster mathematical understanding. This focus on foundational literacy and numeracy aligns with our vision of a district where skills are strengthened through community-supported learning opportunities.

To support all students in achieving these academic goals, our improvement plan includes specialized interventions for students identified as at-risk. Beginning in Pre-K, students are assessed to identify areas where they may need additional support, and our Response to Intervention (RTI) framework ensures consistent progress monitoring. Early literacy assessments, tiered RTI services, and dyslexia interventions are provided to students who demonstrate specific needs. Furthermore, special education support is woven into every classroom through paraprofessional and special education teacher push-ins and personalized accommodations, guaranteeing that each student’s unique learning requirements are met.

Preparing students for success beyond graduation is equally prioritized through a robust K-12 career and technical education (CTE) program. This comprehensive initiative introduces students to career pathways early in their education, with career exploration starting at the elementary level and expanding into high school with options like job shadowing, internships, and dual enrollment programs. Partnerships with local colleges, vocational schools, and industry leaders are integral to our CTE program, providing students with hands-on, real-world experiences that prepare them for various post-secondary options, including skilled trades, technical careers, and higher education. This initiative directly supports our mission of equipping students with purpose-driven goals that foster prosperity for themselves and the community.

Our improvement plan also places a strong emphasis on family and community engagement. We recognize that an inclusive, collaborative environment is essential for student success, and we actively encourage family involvement through education-focused events and resources, like family literacy and math nights, transition programs for students moving between school levels, and orientation activities. Additionally, our partnerships with community organizations and businesses provide enrichment opportunities, career coaching, and health services that support students’ holistic development. These connections deepen our district’s mission of serving the community and creating a supportive environment for students, families, and staff alike.

Building and maintaining a high-quality, committed workforce is another cornerstone of our plan. Recognizing the importance of effective, well-prepared educators, we are actively continuing our recruitment and retention efforts. Our teacher mentor program, micro-credential incentives, and pathways for professional development provide our educators with the support they need to thrive in their roles. Programs like the REACH initiative and apprenticeship pathways are available for paraprofessionals who want to advance in their careers. At the same time, experience stipends and state-approved incentives for teaching in critical areas support staff stability across grade levels and subject areas. Investing in our educators ensures that every student benefits from skilled, knowledgeable instruction that reflects our vision of a confident, prepared school community.

For students requiring additional academic support beyond the classroom, our improvement plan includes alternative education (ALE) services, special education programs, and English language development. ALE provides at-risk students with individualized learning plans, academic coaching, and social-emotional support, helping them transition successfully into general education classrooms. Our special education and ESL programs include targeted instructional support, progress monitoring, and access to assistive technologies. This support for our most vulnerable students reflects our commitment to inclusivity and to ensuring every student has the tools they need to succeed.

The improvement plan also addresses students’ social-emotional and mental health needs, vital for creating a safe, supportive learning environment. Our district partners, with school-based mental health professionals, offers annual mental health awareness training for staff, and uses a tiered behavior intervention system to monitor and support students’ well-being. Behavior interventionists and school counselors work closely with teachers to identify students needing additional help, and resources like character education programs and behavioral contracts support positive student behavior. These initiatives support our mission to strengthen personal accountability and resilience, aligning with our commitment to celebrate success and learn from challenges.

In every aspect of this improvement plan, we strive to uphold our vision that no dream is diminished or demeaned by another. With a clear focus on academic growth, workforce readiness, community involvement, and holistic student support, our plan is a collective effort to create a thriving educational environment for all. We thank each of you—staff, students, families, and community members—for your part in realizing this vision. Through our shared dedication and daily efforts, we are building a better future for all generations.

Closing

The Ladycat Volleyball team capped an incredible season last night in the semi-finals of the state tournament. We could not be prouder of their fierce determination, exceptional skill, and unbreakable team spirit. They represented Mena with remarkable tenacity, poise, and an undeniable passion that made us all proud. Congratulations to the Ladycats on a season to remember, and thank you for inspiring us with your commitment and strength on and off the court. We extend our deepest gratitude to the coaches, parents, and supporters who are equally essential to this program’s success; your unwavering support elevated every game and inspired these athletes to excel.

Mena Public Schools, the city of Mena, and U of A Rich Mountain have been highlighted in Business View Civil & Municipal, a section of Business View Magazine dedicated to showcasing North American communities that are fostering economic growth, enhancing infrastructure, and building stronger connections. This feature explores our efforts in balancing innovation with local heritage, emphasizing our initiatives in education, community development, and collaboration. The article provides insights into how Mena is advancing through strategic partnerships and effective planning, offering inspiration to other civic leaders and residents. You can read more about our feature and explore similar stories here. 

I encourage our Mena Middle School social studies teachers to enter their students into the National Civics Bee, an exciting competition sponsored by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. This Civics Bee is a unique opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of government, civic responsibility, and community engagement—all essential topics in today’s world. Participating students will gain valuable knowledge, build confidence, and develop skills that empower them as active citizens. Let us support our students in this challenge and showcase their civic pride and knowledge at the state level! For more details, visit the Arkansas State Chamber’s website page for the National Civics Bee.

Our Bearcat Football team is on fire this season, standing undefeated at 8-0 and 5-0 in conference play, with a home playoff game already secured! Tonight, they are taking on Clinton in what promises to be an exciting matchup. We invite everyone to come out and support the Bearcats on the road, filling the stands with Bearcat pride! For those who cannot make it, you can stream the game live on our YouTube page and cheer them on from wherever you are. We will rally behind our team as they continue this incredible season!

It was a good week for us 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 coming and have a nice 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!

I want to begin by thanking everyone for their dedication and the hard work you put in this week to help us meet our performance targets. As we continue pushing forward, your commitment to ensuring our students reach their full potential is making a difference across the district. We are constantly setting the bar higher and working together to meet the expectations we have for our schools and our community. With that said, this week, I want to focus on a crucial element of our long-term success: the LEARNS Act's emphasis on early childhood education. By investing in our youngest learners, we are laying the foundation for future achievement and ensuring that our students are ready from the moment they enter kindergarten. We will take a closer look at the work being done to support early childhood learning and how it connects to our vision for student success.

As we continue refining our performance targets, we have temporarily removed the graphs for ELA, math, and science on the performance targets page. This decision was made to ensure that we present the most accurate and meaningful data. We are currently determining the best format for incorporating last year's ATLAS results and this year's interim data. Once we have the appropriate structure in place, we will update the page accordingly to provide a clear picture of our progress.

(As a fun coincidence, the ATLAS comet made an appearance in the night sky just as our ATLAS assessment results were released—clearly, the universe is keeping an eye on our progress! Perhaps it is a sign that we are reaching for the stars… or at least aiming for a few more Level 3s!)

ATLAS Insights

We have had some time to review our ATLAS scores and engage in conversations with educators at the state and co-op levels, and we have gained some valuable insights. One of the most important takeaways is that our Level 2 students have the potential to move up if we challenge them more by increasing the rigor of our lessons and deepening the level of knowledge we require. This means we need to push our students to think critically and stretch beyond surface-level understanding. Additionally, every teacher must know their standards forward, backward, and inside out. Mastery of these standards is the key to ensuring that all of our students, regardless of their current level, can reach their full potential. All of our lessons must support the standards and we must stay on pace to have those essential standards mastered before the end of the year.

Furthermore, our K through 5 teachers must be confident in both their knowledge and application of the Science of Reading. This foundational skill set is essential to developing strong readers who are capable of higher-level thinking and comprehension as they progress through school. I encourage each of you to reflect on your knowledge and abilities in these areas where growth is needed and seek the support or resources necessary to improve. Together, with intentional focus and effort, we will see our students grow and succeed.

LEARNS Early Childhood

Since the LEARNS Act became law in Arkansas, early childhood education has become a top priority, with a renewed focus on preparing students from their earliest years. The LEARNS Act, championed by Governor Sanders, emphasizes the critical importance of early childhood learning, particularly in areas such as literacy and numeracy. A significant initiative born out of this reform is the Pre-K RISE initiative and Launch Pad curriculum, which aims to provide young learners with a solid foundation in reading, math, and social skills before they enter kindergarten. This curriculum is designed to support evidence-based teaching methods and early interventions, giving students a "launch pad" for success throughout their academic journey.

Recently, Mrs. Buckley, Mrs. Sellers, and I attended a meeting at the DeQueen-Mena Educational Cooperative, which serves as our "local lead." A local lead is an organization responsible for supporting schools and early childhood programs within a particular region, ensuring that state initiatives are effectively implemented at the community level. This meeting brought together private daycares within our cooperative, alongside Head Start, public school Pre-K, and Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) programs, intending to set a unified vision for early childhood education in Arkansas. The central focus was on ensuring that children across the state are prepared for kindergarten, laying the groundwork for success in their educational journey. This collaborative approach is essential as it unites various early childhood providers to align with the state's goals of increasing school readiness through robust, high-quality programs.

Despite these advances, Arkansas still faces challenges in ensuring equitable access to early childhood education. Many regions of the state, particularly rural areas, continue to lack adequate Pre-K programs, leaving children in these communities without the early educational experiences that research has shown are vital to long-term achievement. The Arkansas Office of Early Childhood is actively working to address these gaps by expanding access to high-quality Pre-K, particularly in underserved areas. This includes efforts to increase funding, partner with local communities, and offer more resources to parents and educators to ensure that every child, regardless of their location, has access to the educational opportunities necessary for future success.

While Pre-K will not be compulsory in the same way that K-12 education is, the potential impact of increased Pre-K enrollment cannot be overstated. Research shows that third-grade reading levels, a key indicator of future academic success, will significantly improve if more families take advantage of early childhood education opportunities. Recognizing that access can be a barrier for some families, the Arkansas Office of Early Childhood has developed programs to support those who cannot afford Pre-K services. These initiatives aim to provide financial assistance and resources, ensuring that no child is left behind due to economic circumstances. By increasing participation in Pre-K, the state is making a strategic investment in its children, which will pay dividends in terms of long-term educational outcomes and overall student success.

We encourage all staff members to take the time to learn more about this critical issue and how we can all help promote early childhood learning in our schools and communities. Understanding the value of these programs and sharing that knowledge with others will contribute to better outcomes for the children we serve, helping them build a brighter future from the very start of their educational journey. Together, we can advocate for and support the early learning opportunities that will make a difference in the lives of Arkansas children.

Thought Exchange Results

Thank you for your valuable participation in our recent Thought Exchange. Your insights and feedback have been incredibly helpful in understanding the importance of protected time for data analysis and instructional planning. Overall, the responses highlighted the significance of having dedicated, distraction-free time to focus on the big picture and make informed decisions. Many of you emphasized the value of collaboration with colleagues, sharing resources, and discussing strategies to support all learners effectively. The deep dive into data analysis was appreciated, as it allowed for identifying strengths and weaknesses, which is crucial for improving student outcomes. Your commitment to a student-centered approach and the desire to base instruction on actual student knowledge rather than assumptions were evident and commendable. Notably, there was no negative feedback in any of the responses, reflecting a positive and constructive outlook from all participants. Thank you once again for your thoughtful contributions and dedication to enhancing our educational practices.

Closing

I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved in making homecoming a success. The dedication from staff, students, and volunteers was evident in every celebration detail. It is this collective spirit that strengthens our bond as a district and community, reminding us that Mena Public Schools is not just about academic achievement, but about fostering an environment of support and pride.

This week we had our parent-teacher conference time at Louise Durham Elementary and Holly Harshman Elementary, an important opportunity to connect with parents and discuss their child's progress. As we prepare for these conversations, it is helpful to remember the value of steady communication throughout the year. By keeping parents informed about their child's performance regularly—whether through notes, calls, posts, or quick updates—these conferences become much smoother. Parents appreciate being in the loop, and it allows for more productive discussions, as they are already familiar with what is happening in your classroom. This consistency not only strengthens relationships with families but also reinforces our collective goal of supporting student success.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a role in organizing and hosting the 4A South Regional Volleyball Tournament this week. From our coaches and athletic staff to the volunteers, sponsors, and support personnel, your hard work and dedication ensured everything ran smoothly, and our fan section of students attended for free. You provided a welcoming atmosphere for all teams and fans. Your efforts made the event a success and helped showcase the incredible spirit of our school and community. A special congratulations to our volleyball team for qualifying for the state tournament as the number two seed and conference runner-up—your perseverance and teamwork have made us all proud!

Join us tonight for the last regular season home game as we celebrate Senior Night. We will honor our senior football players, cheerleaders, cross country, golf, tennis, and band members for their dedication and contributions to Bearcat pride. Following the recognition ceremony, the Bearcats will take on the Dover Pirates in what promises to be an exciting matchup. Come out and show your support for our seniors and cheer the Bearcats to victory!

It was a good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

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

Remember, school is closed on Monday.

Keep the #menareads posts 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 Homecoming Friday!

I want to begin by thanking everyone for their hard work and dedication this week, especially those who have been deeply involved in the homecoming activities. Your commitment to making these events a success does not go unnoticed, and I truly appreciate all the time and effort that has gone into ensuring a memorable experience for our students and community. In addition, our district’s performance targets are currently being updated, reflecting our ongoing commitment to academic excellence and growth and now we have more data to help us with that.

The first state assessment I was introduced to as a young teacher was ACTAAP, followed by Benchmark, then PARCC, ACT Aspire, and now ATLAS. Each of these assessments had its flaws, but all of them served as tools to guide instruction in their time. What sets ATLAS apart is that it is Arkansas’s own—created by Arkansas teachers—and its format is available for teacher use throughout the year. This accessibility and alignment with our needs should provide us with more consistent and accurate insights, helping us work toward our vision of continual improvement and academic success for all students.

ATLAS Results

Assessment data can bring with it both frustration and excitement. Analyzing data can give us insight into our instructional practices when we look at it as an overall picture of progress. We have to be careful to remember that a summative assessment is a snapshot, one moment in time for a student. Over the next several weeks we will dig deeper into the data to see what we can learn about our instructional practices, but we will continue to use several data points to determine student needs and progress. Below is an overall picture of the district versus state data. Yellow indicates areas where we fall short of the state average, green indicates we hit the mark, and blue shows areas where we are above the state averages. As a district, we have much to be proud of. We have met or exceeded the state averages overall in ELA, Math, and Science. This data will support our work in decision making but we know that it is a combination of this data along with our formative assessments that will inform the work we do with students. K-3 Screener data was received yesterday, and we are working through that data as well. November will give us the next snapshot with interim assessments, but it is the everyday classroom work that makes all the difference for students and their progress. You are making a difference every day in student learning and achievement.

Measuring Progress with Consistency

Reflecting on our ATLAS test scores, I am reminded of a vision I had four years ago. At that time, I imagined our district having its own academic "dashboard”, a tool that would allow staff and the community to see exactly where we were academically throughout the year. We did not have the right tool then, but I moved forward anyway, using a set of different assessments to track our progress. Unfortunately, while these assessments often indicated we were on the right path, the state results told a different story.

Now, with ATLAS, we finally have a tool that aligns with that vision—a cohesive system that allows us to track our progress with accuracy and consistency throughout the year. It provides real-time insights, helping us better support our students and adjust our instruction when needed. This system brings us closer to achieving the clarity and direction we have been striving for, so we are not left guessing about our outcomes.

It is important to acknowledge that, while we now have this powerful tool, we also understand some of the extraneous reasons for lower scores, especially early on. Our younger students are still becoming familiar with the ATLAS system, and many of them are working through challenges related to computer knowledge and usage. These factors, while temporary, can influence initial results. We will continue to guide our students through these adjustments as we help them develop both the academic and technical skills needed to thrive.

It is also important to remember that this change will not happen overnight. We are not in a race; true transformation takes time. Full integration of the ATLAS system, and the results we are striving for, will take four to five years to realize fully. This is a marathon, not a sprint, and the process of adjustment will require patience and persistence.

In the meantime, let us take a mindful, day-to-day approach to this work. Each day is an opportunity to learn and grow. If we encounter challenges or setbacks, let us not see them as failures, but as our teachable moments. It is through those moments that we become better and more effective educators. By focusing on how we are getting better each day, we build a stronger foundation for long-term success.

As I always say: Do not just hope, know. Together, we are on the right path, and I am confident that with each step forward, we are closer to achieving our goals.

Thank you all for your dedication and for embracing the journey ahead.

Grant Opportunities

Each year, several of our dedicated teachers and staff members win grants that directly benefit our students by providing additional resources, enhancing learning experiences, and supporting innovative projects. I encourage all of you to explore grant opportunities, as they offer a unique chance to bring new ideas and valuable materials into our classrooms. Whether you are seeking funding for technology, classroom supplies, or special programs, there are countless opportunities available. Your efforts can make a lasting impact on our students, and I am confident that many of you have ideas that are worth pursuing. Let us continue to seek out these opportunities and make the most of them for our students’ success.

Closing

This week has been filled with excitement and tradition as we celebrate Homecoming, and tonight we will crown our Homecoming Queen in a special ceremony before the big game. The Bearcats will take on Waldron in what promises to be an exciting matchup, and we invite everyone to come out and join the pageantry and school spirit. It is a wonderful opportunity to show our support for the students and athletes who have worked so hard to make this week memorable. So come on out to cheer on the Bearcats and enjoy the celebration of our school’s pride!

Congratulations to the Mena Bearcat Band for their outstanding performance at the Region 8 Marching Assessment held at Fort Smith’s Northside High School this past Tuesday. The band earned an overall rating of 1st Division Superior, continuing the long-standing tradition of excellence that has defined our Bearcat Band for years. This achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and commitment to upholding the high standards of musical performance in our school. We are incredibly proud of their success and the way they continue to represent our school and community with such distinction.

We recently received a heartfelt message from the director of Homewood Cottages expressing gratitude for including their community in our Homecoming parade. She shared how the parade was "beyond beautiful," with enthusiasm from the participants that made it feel as though they were at the very front, not the end. Homewood Cottages is home to many proud Bearcat supporters, and they were thrilled to be part of the festivities. The residents love watching our games and always enjoy it when our students come by. This connection highlights the special role our school plays in the broader community, and we are honored to bring joy and school spirit to those who support us so wholeheartedly.

After Monday's Data Day, I would like to invite all teachers to participate in a Thought Exchange to help us improve planning for future data days. Your insights and feedback are invaluable as we work to create meaningful, productive opportunities for collaboration and growth. Please take a moment to join the Thought Exchange. Your input will help us refine our approach and ensure that we continue meeting the needs of both staff and students. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and for your commitment to continuous improvement.

This afternoon, we have two wonderful opportunities to support our community through upcoming fundraisers. First, the Lion’s Club Chili Supper offers a hearty meal of our cafeteria chili, featuring local beef donated by T-N-L Meat Processing, along with delicious cinnamon rolls. This will be served in the middle school cafeteria. For $10 per person, you can enjoy great food and contribute to a great cause. Additionally, we have the Lioness’s Fundraiser Tailgate before Homecoming at the stadium benefiting the Backpack Food Program. For $10, you can grab a pulled pork sandwich, chips, a cookie, and a drink. Both events offer a chance to give back and connect with others in our community, so I encourage everyone to participate and show their support!

It was a good week for us 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 coming and have a nice 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 close the first quarter of the school year, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your continued dedication and hard work. It is hard to believe how quickly the first nine weeks have flown by, and we have accomplished a great deal in that short time. From implementing new initiatives to fostering student growth in the classroom, our collective efforts have shaped a positive start to the year. This Week 9 Wrap-up will allow us to reflect on where we stand after the first quarter, review our progress, and acknowledge the areas where we are growing. Let us take pride in what we have achieved and stay focused on our goals for the remainder of the year.

First Quarter

As we reflect on the first quarter of this school year, it is clear that our staff’s unwavering dedication has set a strong foundation for success. From the successful kickoff to the implementation of new policies, your adaptability and commitment have made a significant impact. We have also seen steady progress in our academic efforts, with a focus on Tier 1 instruction, professional growth, and creating a supportive environment for all. However, challenges such as staffing shortages and transportation issues remain a priority, and we will continue working together to address these needs in the coming months.

Our students have already shown remarkable achievements in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. From outstanding performances in football, volleyball, and tennis, to the success of our REACH program graduates and Mena Reads initiative, our students and staff continue to thrive. Their success is a direct result of the efforts you put forth each day, both in and out of the classroom. As we move into the second quarter, let us continue to foster a culture of growth and achievement for all.

Let us keep this momentum going and strive to make the next quarter even more successful. I challenge each of us to reflect on what has worked, address areas for improvement, and push forward with the same energy and passion that brought us through this first quarter. Together, we can ensure that this school year is one of continued progress and collective success for both staff and students.

Performance Targets

This week’s discipline referral tracking shows a positive development. While we are still above our goal of a 10% reduction compared to last year, we can see a key trend: the yellow bar, which tracks gap between increase or decrease in referrals, has started moving downward. For Week 9, it stands at 40.34%, showing progress in closing the discipline gap between last year and this year. This decline highlights our ongoing efforts to create a more focused and positive learning environment. Our attendance is holding steady at 93.9%, which is above our target, and I encourage you to visit our Performance Target page for additional insights, including charts tracking our attendance and other key performance metrics.

As many of you know, we have been experiencing a lot of illness across the district, which could begin to impact our attendance. To help mitigate the spread of germs, our custodial team has sprayed all facilities using the Clorox 360 system. I also encourage everyone to do their part in maintaining their health. Be sure to wash your hands regularly, stay hydrated, eat well, and get plenty of rest. Together, we can work to keep our school environment as healthy as possible as we move into the next quarter of the school year.

Monday’s PD

This coming Monday, we have a professional development day, which will provide an opportunity for us all to dig into the data from the first nine weeks. Without students on campus, I encourage you to take full advantage of this time to reflect on both the celebrations and areas of improvement that will help guide us in making the second quarter even more successful. Additionally, we will be receiving our ATLAS results next week, which will show how well we performed last year. We will share those results with you and offer some reflections throughout next week and in next week’s Wrap-up.

Here is a general overview of the scores and process for ATLAS that was shared with superintendents on Wednesday. This will be a good preview for you all to prepare for next week when we see how Mena Public Schools performed. We will soon have more robust academic data to guide us through the rest of the school year.

National School Lunch Week

Next week, from October 14-18, we will be celebrating National School Lunch Week, a time to highlight the importance of nutritious meals for students’ health and academic success. A balanced, nutritious school lunch helps students stay focused, improves memory, and provides the energy needed for both classroom learning and after-school activities.

At Mena Public Schools, we have a fun twist planned for this year's National School Lunch Week provided by Aramark! The menu will feature some of our administrators' favorite meals from when they were in school, including classics like square pizza and chili with cinnamon rolls, plus a few more surprises. Students will have the chance to guess which school lunch favorites belong to which admin throughout the week. We hope this celebration brings some fun and excitement to lunchtime while also reinforcing the value of healthy eating.

Please encourage students to participate and enjoy the nostalgic menu, as we continue to prioritize both fun and nutrition in our school lunch program.

Closing

Congratulations to our high school choir students who attended the All-Region Auditions and achieved incredible results! Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and several of these talented students will continue on to audition for All-State after the new year. These students are representing Mena High School with excellence, and I could not be prouder of their achievements. Let us all take a moment to celebrate their success and wish them the best as they prepare for their next auditions. Great job, Bearcats! Keep up the fantastic work!

Next week is Homecoming Week, and we are excited to celebrate this special time at Mena Public Schools! Our students and community will come together for a week filled with school spirit, activities, and celebrations. Be sure to check out our Facebook page for details on the upcoming events, including dress-up days, the homecoming parade, and the big game.

A big thank you to our Mena High School art students who worked hard this week to fulfill community service hours by designing and painting the windows of a preschool classroom at Louise Durham Elementary. Their creativity and dedication have added a wonderful touch to the learning environment, bringing joy to the young students. You can see their fantastic work by visiting our Facebook post here. Please take a moment to check out the artwork and celebrate these students’ contributions to our school community!

Tonight, the Bearcat football team travels to Ozark to take on the Hillbillies in what promises to be an exciting match-up! If you can make the trip, come out and support the Bearcats in person as they take the field. For those who cannot attend, we encourage you to tune in and watch the game live on our YouTube channel. Show us your school spirit and cheer on the Bearcats, whether in the stands or from home!

After last week’s game, Bearcat Football player Brody Peters is in the lead for becoming Player of the Week in Arkansas Sports Illustrated. Fans can vote for Brody here.

Fields of Faith had a great turnout this week and we received a Red Ribbon Week Grant to support the message of a drug-free school. Thanks to all of our staff who made those things happen!

So much more happened that it is hard to put it all in one Wrap up!

It was a good week for us 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 coming and have a nice 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 wrap up another productive week, I want to take a moment to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for the hard work and dedication you continue to demonstrate. Your commitment to our students and community remains unwavering, and it is reflected in the ongoing work toward meeting our discipline and attendance performance targets. While discipline referrals continue to present challenges, we are seeing improvement in our attendance rates, thanks to your continued efforts. Additionally, we were informed by DESE that we will be receiving our ATLAS results within the next two weeks. I look forward to sharing these with you and discussing how we can continue building on the areas where we are making progress. Thank you again for all that you do!

Our Leadership PLC met this morning to review and discuss current trends in our discipline and attendance data. As a district, we are committed to addressing the challenges we face head-on, and we are actively collaborating on solutions that will help us meet our goals. In this week’s Wrap-up, I want to provide you with an overview of our recent discussions, insights into how we are addressing specific discipline trends, and a few important informational items to keep on your radar.

Year-to-Date Discipline

As of October 4, 2024, we have seen a notable increase in discipline incidents across several categories compared to the same period last year. For example, bus incidents have risen significantly, from 58 incidents in 2023 to 83 incidents in 2024. Class disruptions have also increased, with 33 incidents this year, up from 31 last year. Fights have increased from 5 incidents to 16. Additionally, incidents related to disorderly conduct have surged from 11 in 2023 to 40 this year, reflecting an area that requires focused attention. We are also seeing a higher number of violations related to personal electronic devices, which jumped from 6 incidents in 2023 to 39 incidents in 2024.

Our district leadership team is fully aware of these trends and is actively collaborating to analyze the underlying causes and identify more effective intervention strategies. I would like to provide a little more insight into how we are addressing these increases.

Personal Electronic Devices

It is obvious why our electronic devices infractions would increase due to our prohibiting cell phones but we are also seeing very positive results from this policy such as more social interaction among students and less distraction in the classroom.

Bus Incidents

At the start of this year, Mr. Torix informed me that we have more students riding the buses than in previous years, and we are still experiencing a shortage of bus drivers. Last year, to address the driver shortage, we combined one route with others, which allowed us to operate with one less driver. However, this year, with one fewer route and more students, some of our buses have become overcrowded.

I plan to reinstate the combined route to help alleviate the crowding, but we do not yet have enough drivers to do so. Several individuals are currently in the process of obtaining their CDL, and we are holding after-school and evening sessions to help expedite their certification. Once these new drivers are on board, we will add the extra route, which we anticipate will reduce the overcrowding and help address some of the discipline issues we are seeing on the buses.

Class Distruptions and Disorderly Conduct

Class disruptions have not increased a great deal but we still acknowledge them. While "disorderly conduct" is a broad category within our discipline framework, we are actively addressing it by upholding high expectations and consistently following the discipline matrices that each building has developed. We are committed to supporting our teachers and staff as they report these infractions and ensuring they have the tools needed to manage discipline issues effectively, both inside and outside the classroom. This includes providing additional training and strategies to help navigate challenging behaviors and create a positive learning environment for all students.

Fighting

We have seen an increase in the number of fights this year, and while we are strictly following district policies regarding disciplinary actions, we are also taking a more comprehensive approach to address the root causes. In addition to enforcing consequences, we are working closely with our student mental health teams and counselors to provide support for students involved in these incidents. Our goal is not only to manage behavior but to help students develop the social and emotional skills needed to resolve conflicts in healthier ways. By addressing both the immediate actions and the underlying issues, we aim to reduce these incidents and create a more positive school environment.

We are committed to addressing these challenges and working together to create a learning environment that fosters better behavior and success for all students. Thank you for your ongoing support and for continuing to help us guide students in the right direction.

Growth Opportunity

For those of you considering a path into school leadership, I encourage you to explore the IMPACT Arkansas Fellowship Program offered by the University of Arkansas. This program is designed to support educators who aspire to become administrators, providing high-quality leadership training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in Arkansas schools. It is a great opportunity to develop the skills needed to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact on our students, staff, and community. If you have been thinking about taking this next step in your career, this program could be an excellent fit for you.

A Reminder of Our "Why"

As we navigate the challenges and victories of each school year, it is important to remember why we do what we do. A special moment was shared with me today—a senior picture of one of our students, Thallen, who has been with us since kindergarten. Seeing this joyful expression reminded me of the deep impact we have as educators, not just in shaping minds, but in creating a supportive, loving environment where every child can thrive.

Thallen’s journey is a testament to the power of inclusion and the importance of serving all students, regardless of their abilities or challenges. When we approach each day with heart, dedication, and care, we not only help our students grow academically, but we also foster a sense of belonging and joy in their lives and in the lives of their families.

This is the core of our mission at Mena Public Schools—to create an environment where no dream is diminished, and every student is seen, supported, and valued. Thank you for the role each of you plays in this mission. Let this be a reminder of the joy we help create when we serve with compassion and purpose.

Serving Every Student, Even When It Is Hard

Thallen’s story is encouraging to us but as educators, we know that some days are more challenging than others. We all have students who push our patience to the limit, who seem uninterested, ungrateful, or even disrespectful. These students can sometimes make us question why we do what we do. But it is precisely in those moments, when it is hardest to care, that our commitment and professionalism matter the most.

Our mission calls us to serve every student, not just those who show appreciation or make our work easy. The students who may seem to have disdain for us are often the ones who need us the most. It is easy to offer kindness and support to those who are eager to receive it, but the true test of our impact comes when we extend that same grace to the students who resist it. These are the students who will remember that we showed up for them, even when they did not want us to.

Let us not forget that each student’s journey is shaped by experiences we may not fully understand. They may not always show it, but our efforts to connect, support, and guide them are making a difference. We may not see the fruits of that labor today or even this year, but the seeds of care, patience, and dedication are being planted.

Let this serve as a reminder that our work is not about receiving thanks or recognition—it is about making a lasting impact, especially when it feels the most challenging.

Closing

We are deeply grateful to all the teachers, parents, community members, and volunteers who made the Louise Durham Fall Carnival such a success! Your generous donations of time, prizes, and support created a fun-filled evening of games, student recognition, and excitement. Events like these strengthen the bond between our school and community, bringing joy to our students and families while celebrating their achievements. Thank you for helping us make a positive impact on our children’s lives!

October brings several opportunities to show our appreciation and celebrate key school community members. This month is National Principal’s Month, a time to recognize our principals' hard work and leadership. We also celebrate Economics Education Month, raising awareness about the importance of economic and financial literacy for our students. On October 2nd, we honored our custodians on School Custodian Appreciation Day, followed by National Coach Day on October 6th, and Boss's Day on October 16th. From October 21-25, we will observe National School Bus Safety Week, focusing on keeping our students safe in transit. Finally, October 20-26 is Red Ribbon Week, a reminder of the importance of living drug-free. Let us take these opportunities to show our gratitude and highlight the efforts of those who contribute to the success and safety of our schools.

Bearcat Football will face off against Lamar tonight at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium and Randall Whorton Field, and it will be a special evening! Our 5th and 6th graders will join the team during the run-out as special guests. Law enforcement, fire, and emergency responders will receive free admission as a token of our appreciation for their service. To add to the excitement, the Air Evac helicopter will be delivering the game ball. We look forward to seeing everyone there!

Keep the #menareads efforts going!

It was a good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

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

Have a nice 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 close out another productive week at Mena Public Schools, I want to express my deep appreciation for the energy, commitment, and heart each of you brings to our school community. Your efforts continue to drive us forward, and it is through your hard work that we can make a meaningful impact on our students, staff, and families as we strive to reach our performance targets. Thank you for all that you do every day to support our shared mission and vision—we will keep pushing forward together!

A word about this year’s performance target data thus far… While our average attendance rate has seen a slight dip compared to last year, it is important to highlight that we are still performing well above our attendance goal for this year. Our early performance data shows that our efforts are paying off, demonstrating strong engagement from our students. However, just like last year, we see a rise in discipline incidents, which is expected as we continue to rigorously track referrals now across all four campuses using the BX3 behavior matrices. This increased accountability and consistency in managing student behavior reflect our commitment to maintaining a positive learning environment and supporting our students' success. The data may not be tracking in a direction we like but I am not concerned because we are keeping our expectations high.

This Week 7 Wrap-up post is titled "What Are We Doing?" with a focus on self-reflection, impactful actions, and contrasting examples of behaviors that hinder our mission and vision.

What Are We Doing?

This week, I want to take a moment to pause and reflect on a simple yet profound question: What are we doing? In its many forms, this question guides us back to our mission and vision—serving our community by instilling purpose, fostering growth, and building a better future for all. We will explore what this means in practice and how our actions align with the impact we strive to create.

Are We Inspiring Purpose?

What are we doing to inspire purpose in our students and staff? We are creating opportunities for everyone to discover their unique strengths and passions. From personalized learning experiences to community projects, our actions show that every dream is valued. However, the antithesis is when we become too focused on routine and overlook the individual needs of those we serve. Purpose thrives when we see and nurture each person's potential and allow them to showcase their talents.

Are We Building a Supportive Environment?

What are we doing to build a supportive environment? We engage in meaningful professional development, foster collaborative teams, and celebrate successes. Our vision comes alive when we uplift one another, providing support in words and action. The opposite behavior is operating in silos, letting criticism overshadow encouragement, or failing to offer a helping hand when someone struggles. Support is not a passive act; it is a daily commitment.

Are We Creating Confidence in Our Community?

What are we doing to instill confidence in our community? We are showing up with transparency, communicating openly with families, and involving community members in our journey. We build confidence when we own our successes and our challenges, demonstrating that we are all in this together. The counterproductive approach is avoiding tough conversations, shutting out feedback, or failing to engage. Confidence grows from connection and shared accountability.

Are We Modeling Accountability?

What are we doing to model accountability? We celebrate our achievements, but we also learn from our mistakes without losing sight of our purpose. Accountability is reflected in our willingness to adapt, innovate, and persevere. It means being present, prepared, and proactive. Behaviors that undermine this include blame-shifting, resisting change, or turning a blind eye to areas needing improvement. True accountability inspires growth and strengthens our community.

Are We Pushing Beyond Comfort?

What are we doing to challenge the status quo and push beyond comfort? We are embracing change, trying new strategies, and setting ambitious goals for our students and ourselves. When we push past comfort, we discover new ways to succeed. The antithesis is clinging to old habits, avoiding risk, or settling for "good enough." Growth lies on the other side of discomfort, and our mission calls us to be brave.

As we continue forward, let us keep asking: “What are we doing?”, “What am I doing?” Are our actions driving us closer to our vision, or do they need recalibrating? By constantly reflecting on this question, we align our daily efforts with our greater purpose. Together, we can ensure that what we are doing is building a community where every individual thrives, and every action has meaning.

Keep pushing forward, keep asking the right questions, and keep believing in the power of what we are doing.

Closing

Sherry Newman sent an email reminding staff that Open Enrollment for insurance changes is from October 1st to October 31st, with any changes taking effect in 2025. Forms and rates are available on the website under menu > documents > employee forms 2024-2025. Access the forms here. If you have experienced a life event—such as a spouse losing coverage, marriage, divorce, or birth of a child—or expect one, please contact Sherry for coverage options. If no changes are needed, no action is required.

Here is a fun opportunity to watch the Razorbacks take on Louisiana Tech on November 23rd.  Click this link to open the informational flyer, scan the QR code, and enter the promo code ‘educators’ to purchase your tickets for only $10!!  WPS!!

The Bearcats and Ladycats had a busy week of competition! Our tennis teams battled hard against Arkadelphia, and we look forward to hosting them again on October 3rd at Tapley Park. The Ladycats Volleyball team will compete in the Rams MTXE Tournament this Saturday in Hot Springs, following a great sweep against Malvern on Tuesday. Mena Cross Country represented us well at the Buck Fever Showcase, and they will be back in action on October 1st at the Leopard Run in DeQueen. Our Golf teams competed in the 4-4A District Tournament, with the Bearcats finishing strong and earning second place. The boys’ 4A State Golf Match is set for October 8th at Desoto Golf Course. A special congratulations to the Jr. Ladycat Volleyball team for bringing home the GOLD in the Silver Bracket at the Ladycat Classic! Great job to all our teams for representing Mena so well!

The Mena Jr. Bearcats showcased more than just their athletic skills in last night's close game against Pottsville, finishing with a 30-24 victory. We received a heartfelt message from a Pottsville parent, commending our players, band, cheerleaders, and fans for creating a fantastic atmosphere. This kind of positive feedback highlights the true spirit of sportsmanship that our community embodies. The Jr. Bearcats are back in action on October 3rd at Lamar.

The Sr. Bearcat Football team travels to Pottsville tonight to take on the Apaches in their conference opener. If you are not making the trip, you can watch the live stream on our YouTube channel. We wish the Bearcats all the luck for a win tonight! Go Bearcats!

The latest #menareads efforts are going great! Keep it up!

It was a good week for us at Mena Public Schools! Remember, we are closed this Monday.

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

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!

Welcome to this week's Bearcat Wrap-up! As we move through another busy and productive week at Mena Public Schools, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the hard work and dedication of our students, staff, and families. I have started tracking progress of our current performance targets focus on discipline and attendance, once again, with the same target numbers as last year: 93.5 percent attendance and a ten percent decrease in discipline referrals. Our academic performance will not be tracked until we have our ATLAS results from the spring and the screeners. We know that reaching our goals requires everyone working together. Effective parent communication is a key component of this teamwork, ensuring that we stay connected, informed, and united in supporting our students' success every step of the way. This week’s Wrap-up will highlight the crucial role of parent communication in helping us build a supportive and successful learning environment for every Bearcat.

Recent Efforts

Our recent efforts to enhance parent communication have been truly commendable, and I want to highlight the impact they are making. Grade-level parent nights in our elementary schools have provided valuable opportunities for teachers to share important information about curriculum, behavior expectations, communication methods, and various resources available to support students and families. Additionally, parent-teacher conferences have been a success, with parents expressing their appreciation for the level of engagement and dedication shown by our staff—one parent even reached out to commend our high school teachers for their involvement during conferences. Beyond these events, teacher newsletters and social media posts have been instrumental in keeping parents informed and connected. Posts that showcase student achievements and set clear expectations through exemplars and modeling have been particularly effective in helping parents understand the level of work required for success. Each of these efforts are fostering a collaborative environment where students can thrive.

Continuous Parent Engagement

Effective and continuous communication with parents is fundamental to the success of our students and the overall school community. At MPS, we are fortunate that most school days are filled with positive experiences for both students and teachers. Sharing these good days regularly helps build trust with parents and keeps them informed, creating a solid foundation of support when challenges arise. Frequent and consistent communication ensures that parents feel connected, valued, and engaged in their child’s education.

Proactive communication is at the heart of maintaining these strong relationships. Reaching out early—before concerns surface—sets a positive tone and fosters collaboration. By consistently sharing updates, both big and small, we create a supportive partnership that empowers parents to take an active role in their child’s education. This proactive approach also helps prevent misunderstandings, as parents appreciate being kept in the loop about what is happening in their child’s school life.

Clarity and consistency are equally important in every message we send. Our parents lead busy lives, and clear, straightforward communication helps them stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Whether it is a quick note about a student’s progress, an upcoming event, or a simple reminder, delivering information in an easy-to-understand format ensures that parents have what they need to support their child effectively. Consistent communication, especially when delivered routinely, provides a sense of stability and reassurance to families.

Respect and empathy should be at the core of every interaction we have with parents. Every family has unique circumstances, and approaching our communication with understanding and compassion fosters a more positive and collaborative relationship. By acknowledging parents’ efforts and working together as a team, we strengthen our shared responsibility for each student’s success. Proactivity, clarity, and respect are key principles that drive our efforts to build meaningful connections with our school community.

Another vital aspect of effective communication is discerning when to reach out to individual parents versus using broader channels like social media posts or sending newsletters home. Personal communication is best suited for addressing specific concerns, achievements, or behaviors related to individual students. These messages show parents that we see their child as an individual and are attentive to their needs. However, not every update requires personal contact. Group posts and newsletters are ideal for sharing general information, classroom updates, and reminders that apply to all students. These broader communications keep parents informed without overwhelming them, balancing individual engagement with efficient information sharing. By choosing the right method for each situation, we ensure that our messages are impactful, respectful of parents’ time, and effective in maintaining a positive flow of information between home and school.

What Works and What Does Not

Research consistently shows that the most impactful means of parental communication are those that are proactive, positive, and two-way in nature. Studies indicate that personalized, regular communication—such as phone calls, individualized emails, or face-to-face meetings—fosters a strong connection between parents and educators, leading to improved student outcomes. These methods allow for a dialogue where parents feel heard, respected, and involved in their child’s learning, reinforcing the home-school partnership. In contrast, research highlights that communication perceived as negative, sporadic, or reactive can be detrimental. Overemphasis on problems without offering solutions, a lack of consistency in messaging, or impersonal mass communications that lack empathy can erode trust and disengage parents. Communication that is perceived as judgmental, dismissive, or overly critical often leads to defensive reactions, reduced parental involvement, and a breakdown in the collaborative effort needed for student success. Effective communication strategies focus on building relationships, offering support, listening, and maintaining a positive, solution-focused dialogue that benefits both students and families.

Listening and Getting Results

Based on the results of last year’s District Engagement Survey, the feedback from parents and the community has been overwhelmingly positive. The majority of respondents indicated that Mena Public Schools provide multiple opportunities for engagement through events like parent-teacher conferences, open houses, and after-school activities. Many parents expressed that they feel welcomed in the school environment and believe that their child is learning in a safe and supportive atmosphere. Additionally, most parents reported that they receive timely and clear communication about their child's progress, reflecting a strong connection between school and home. These survey results demonstrate that, in the eyes of parents and the community, MPS is effectively building a collaborative environment that supports student success.

While the District Engagement Survey highlighted many strengths, it also revealed areas where improvements are needed. Some parents noted inconsistencies in communication, especially regarding the timing of important updates, with some receiving last-minute notifications that made it difficult to participate fully. Additionally, there were calls for more frequent and detailed updates on student progress and clearer communication channels, particularly for middle and high school levels. Some parents also expressed a desire for more in-person involvement opportunities, such as classroom visits or school events, which have been limited in recent years. Addressing these areas by providing earlier and more consistent communication, increasing parent involvement opportunities, and ensuring that every parent feels fully informed will help strengthen our connection with families and further enhance the learning environment for our students.

Research consistently shows that when parents are engaged and feel connected to their child’s school, student achievement improves significantly. Effective communication fosters a sense of partnership, enhances students' motivation, and supports academic and social development. Schools that prioritize positive and proactive communication see higher rates of student attendance, improved behavior, and better academic outcomes, as students benefit from the combined support of both educators and parents working together toward shared goals. Maintaining and enhancing these communication practices will continue to have a positive impact on our students’ learning and overall success.

Closing

This week, our Bearcat football team has a bye week, so there will be no game tonight. However, the action continues as our Junior Ladycat Volleyball team will be hosting our tournament this weekend. Congratulations are also in order for our Junior High Bearcat Football team, who secured an impressive victory over Russellville, showcasing their hard work and determination on the field. Additionally, our volleyball teams have been on fire, with both our junior and senior teams celebrating victories over Magnolia. Great job, Bearcats! Keep up the fantastic work, and we will continue to cheer on our athletes as they make us proud!

Thank you to everyone who participated in celebrating Constitution Day. Also, Freedom Week is next week, these are meaningful and engaging experiences for our students. We also want to take a moment to recognize that September 17th was IT Professionals Day, and we are grateful to our outstanding IT team who keep our district running smoothly. A special thank you to Lorrie Henry, Chuck Cox, Cindy Brevik, and Nathan Stone—our dedicated IT professionals—whose hard work and expertise are invaluable to Mena Public Schools. Your commitment to supporting our staff and students does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate everything you do to keep us connected and learning every day!

We also have National Teaching Assistants’ Day coming next Friday, providing us an opportunity to celebrate and thank our dedicated teaching assistants who play a vital role in supporting our students and teachers every day. Please make sure to show our appreciation for their hard work and the positive impact they have on our school community!

The latest #menareads efforts are going great! Keep it up!

It was a good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

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

Have a nice 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 wrap up this week, I want to sincerely thank everyone for all of your hard work and the sacrifices you’ve made. Your dedication to our students and our school community does not go unnoticed, and it is because of each of you that we continue to make strides in all areas.

In this week’s Wrap-up, I want to take a moment to reflect on what drives us. Our motivations are the foundation of the commitment we bring to our roles each day. Also, I will highlight some of the changes in professional development for Arkansas educators, and make you aware of new opportunities for non-licensed employees to earn their teaching degree and license.

Commitment and Motivation

I want to take a moment to reflect on the motivations that drive our work and the types of commitment we bring to the school. Three key types of commitment influence how we engage with our roles: affective, continuance, and normative commitment.

* Affective Commitment: This is when we are driven by a deep emotional attachment to our work because we truly believe in the mission of our school and what it stands for. It is the “want to” feeling – we are here because we want to make a difference in the lives of our students and contribute to something meaningful.

* Continuance Commitment: This type of commitment is more pragmatic. It is when we stay because leaving would come at too high a cost, whether that is financial, professional, or personal. It is the “have to” feeling – we might not be passionate about everything we do, but the stakes of walking away are too high.

* Normative Commitment: This stems from a sense of obligation. We stay because we feel that we should. It is the “ought to” feeling – perhaps we owe it to our colleagues, our students, or even ourselves to see things through, regardless of personal preference.

Beyond these forms of commitment, we also have two primary motivators that affect how we approach our work: mission-driven or ego-driven.

* Mission-driven motivation comes from a focus on the greater good. It is about serving our students, supporting each other, and striving for excellence because we believe in the collective success of our school.

* Ego-driven motivation, on the other hand, is more focused on individual gain, recognition, or advancement.

While both motivations can drive success, it is the mission-driven schools that see long-lasting impact and sustained success. When we are aligned with our school's mission, we cultivate affective commitment—the kind of dedication that sustains us through challenges because we believe in the value and purpose of our work. This idea mirrors what Simon Sinek describes in his book Start With Why, where he explains that “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it, and what you do simply proves what you believe.” When our "why" is deeply rooted in the school’s mission and the difference we want to make in students' lives, our actions become more meaningful.

Sinek emphasizes that mission-driven organizations foster a culture of intrinsic motivation and loyalty, which leads to higher performance and a lasting legacy. Schools that prioritize their "why"—their core mission to educate and empower—are more likely to inspire not only teachers and staff but also students and the community to achieve greatness.

This sense of shared purpose also ties into social identity theory in social psychology. People tend to derive a strong sense of belonging and self-esteem when they identify with the mission and values of the group they are part of. In our case, when staff members feel connected to the school’s purpose, it fosters group cohesion. A cohesive team, working toward a common mission, is more collaborative, supportive, and effective in overcoming challenges. In contrast, schools driven by ego-related motivations may see short-term success but often lack the depth of connection and community that sustains long-term growth.

Furthermore, fostering psychological safety, the idea that people feel safe to express themselves without fear of negative consequences enhances this mission-driven culture. When staff members feel safe to take risks, share ideas, and voice concerns, we foster a culture of innovation and resilience. This aligns with affective commitment, as it strengthens the bond between staff and the school's mission, ensuring that everyone feels valued and part of a greater cause.

As we move forward in this school year, I encourage everyone to reflect on their motivations and commitment. Let us ensure that we are fostering a culture of affective commitment, where our shared purpose drives us to not only meet our goals but exceed them in the best interest of our students and community. Together, as a mission-driven team, we can achieve great things.

Thank you for your continued hard work and dedication! Let us keep our mission at the forefront of everything we do.

More Opportunities for Classified Employees to Advance

Our REACH program has been a remarkable success, with some of our former paraprofessionals now thriving as teachers in their own classrooms. It is inspiring to see how this initiative has transformed careers and enriched our school community. However, REACH currently limits licensing to teaching up to 5th grade. For those looking to expand their impact, UALR has a new program that offers a wonderful opportunity to pursue certification for middle school grades as well. We encourage our classified employees to explore these pathways and consider becoming a part of our talented teaching staff. Your potential is waiting!

Professional Development

Recently, changes in maintaining professional development for Arkansas Educators have led to questions regarding timelines and requirements. All Arkansas educators are required to complete a minimum of 36 hours of professional development for fulfillment of district contracts. In our district, these 36 hours are provided through summer flex days and Back to School training days. MSD-certified employees log all professional learning including the required 36 hours for contracts in the ESC Works Shoebox and include that documentation at the end of the year in the Professional Growth Plan review with the building principal. As in past years, the 36 hours have to be separate from student interaction days, meaning that training sessions attended during the school year are not included as a part of the 36 hours required for contracts. 

In addition, every five years, the Arkansas Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will require each individual educator to provide documentation of completion of 8 specific hours (2 hours each) in the following areas:

In the past, these have been required on a rotating basis and documented by the district. Beginning this year, documentation for these eight hours will be a part of the license renewal process for each educator. Each of these can be completed either through Arkansas IDEAS or will also be provided through the DeQueen-Mena Education Service Cooperative each summer. 

Closing

Thank you all for enforcing our new cell phone policy and for helping us deal with some of the pushback. You should know that our efforts have netted positive results that are being noticed, most recently after the local threats that have been made on social media. Yesterday, Sheriff Sawyer spoke to The Rotary Club and commended Mena Public Schools for enforcing our cell phone policy. He also attended this morning’s district leadership meeting to explain that none of the threats that were made were against Mena and that the ones that were made were compounded in schools that continue to allow cell phone use. He noted how cell phones in the hands of students during an emergency only make things worse. So, thanks again for upholding our expectations.

Congratulations to the entire team at Louise Durham Elementary for completing their behavior plan! With the dedication and leadership of everyone involved, we have successfully finished our BX3 behavior matrices across all buildings. This is a significant achievement, and we are excited to move forward by closely tracking discipline data and looking for positive results. Together, we are ensuring a consistent and supportive environment for all students. We will continue to work together and make a lasting impact!

Our Bearcats and Ladycats on the volleyball, golf, tennis, and cross-country teams have been making us proud this season! The volleyball team celebrated big victories over Arkadelphia and Fountain Lake, showing their determination and skill on the court. Our golf teams have also been on a winning streak, with impressive wins over Pottsville, Ozark, and Bigelow. Meanwhile, the girls and boys cross-country teams continue to excel, both securing top 5 finishes in recent competitions.

The Bearcats Football Team will host the Stigler Panthers out of Oklahoma tonight in the second home game of the season. We are 2-0 and have not been scored on yet; so, please come out and show your support to keep our win streak going! We will also be recognizing the 2014 State Runners-up and our 2nd and 3rd graders so it will be a special night.

We appreciate all of the grandparents who came to Holly Harshman Elementary this week for Grandparents Day!

It is great to see #menareads continuing to flourish! Keep it up!

It was another good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

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

Have a nice 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 to everyone for your continued dedication and hard work this week. Your efforts make all the difference in the success of our students. I would especially like to thank those who have been working tirelessly to deliver the preliminary ATLAS tests. Your commitment to providing high-quality assessments ensures we start the year with a strong understanding of our students' needs. But remember, it is not how we start that is most important but how we finish.

This Wrap-up is about our continual focus on excellence in Tier 1 instruction, maintaining our safety protocols, and celebrating the successes that make Mena Public Schools a community of growth and achievement.

Reinforcing Our Focus on Tier 1 Instruction

As we continue our focus on Tier 1 instruction, it is important to revisit the insights shared in the Thought Exchange conducted toward the end of last year. The overwhelming consensus from our staff is that Tier 1 instruction serves as the foundation of student learning. It is designed to ensure that all students receive high-quality, grade-level instruction using standardized, evidence-based strategies.

Tier 1 instruction is essential in setting the stage for future learning. Teachers highlighted the importance of using high-quality instructional materials and delivering lessons that are both engaging and differentiated. These strategies ensure that every student can access and succeed with grade-level standards, regardless of their background or learning pace.

Our new teachers, in particular, should understand that from the district’s perspective, Tier 1 is non-negotiable. It is the primary layer of instruction that all students experience, and we must deliver this instruction daily, using direct, explicit methods that build on prior knowledge. We must also assess students regularly to monitor progress and ensure mastery of the skills and concepts they need to advance.

As we move forward, we will stay committed to this focus and make sure we are providing consistent, high-quality Tier 1 instruction to all our students.

Countering Negative Press While Acknowledging Needed Growth

As many of you know, there has been a recent Gallup poll on parent satisfaction with K-12 education that has garnered some attention. Depending on which headline you read, the interpretation of data in the survey could be vastly different. For instance, one article highlights that "More than half of Americans 'dissatisfied' with K-12 education", while another headline states, "Why did satisfaction with K-12 rise in the past year despite little changes?". It is worth noting that even Gallup’s own headline was positive, and they are the people who gathered the data. You can see their article titled "Americans' View of Education Improves From 2023 Low".

As a school, we must read and understand data and news about our chosen profession and counter the negative narratives by showcasing the tremendous work we are doing to support our students. Test scores are one measure, but they do not tell the full story of student growth or the incredible dedication of our staff. Every day, we are creating opportunities for success, focusing on the whole child, and making a difference. We need to ensure that these successes are part of the conversation as well.

That being said, it is essential that we also acknowledge areas where improvement is needed. Test scores and surveys are valid sources of information and negative press can serve as a reminder that there are always aspects of our work that require attention. By being transparent about our challenges and working together to find solutions, we strengthen our community and our commitment to student achievement. Acknowledging where we can grow while celebrating our accomplishments, helps us move forward with purpose and unity.

We cannot sit idle and let our detractors land punches. Nor can we put our heads in the sand and place blame on external factors. We look within for solutions. We still have a mission, vision, and set of community expectations to fulfill. Let us continue to work hard, support one another, and ensure that both our successes and our dedication to improvement are heard loud and clear.

Exploring Learning Opportunities with Crystal Bridges Museum

As we continue looking for ways to expand our students' learning experiences, I want to bring to your attention the educational opportunities available through the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The museum offers a variety of school tours and resources that can align with our curriculum and provide unique learning experiences outside the classroom.

While we cannot take every student on a field trip, there are opportunities for those teachers who have a thoughtful plan for how a museum visit can complement their content. The museum also offers financial assistance, including transportation reimbursements and substitute teacher coverage.

Let us keep thinking creatively about how to engage our students in meaningful ways. For more details on the tours and resources available, I encourage you to visit Crystal Bridges Museum School Programs.

School Shooting

On Wednesday, a tragic school shooting occurred at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. Four lives were lost—two students and two teachers—and several others were injured in this devastating event. The 14-year-old shooter is now in custody, and authorities continue to investigate how the weapon was obtained and brought into the school. This tragedy serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of being vigilant about school safety measures. As educators and staff members, we play a crucial role in ensuring our classrooms remain secure.

In the Sandy Hook Advisory Commission’s 2015 final report, it was noted that “there has never been an event in which an active shooter breached a locked classroom door.” This highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols, such as locking classroom doors and remaining alert to potential threats. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students and staff by following these proven precautions and, please, take the time to review our active shooter protocols here that were provided to you by SRO, Justin Wagner.

Closing

Our Mena FFA students had an outstanding showing at the Polk County Fair last week, achieving more top placings than ever before. Their dedication to their livestock projects truly paid off, with multiple students winning Grand and Reserve Champion titles across a variety of categories, including Market Goats, Cattle, Lambs, and Hogs. Congratulations to all those students and advisors—you have continued to set a high standard of excellence for our program, and we are very proud!

Our volleyball, golf, and tennis teams continue to represent Mena Public Schools with excellence! The volleyball team has been dominating on the court with strong performances and impressive teamwork. Meanwhile, our golf team is swinging their way to success in tournament play, and our tennis team has been excelling in matches, showing their hard work and dedication on the courts.

Tonight, we invite everyone to come to support the Bearcat Football team and Bearcat Band as they take the field for our first home game of the season at Bob Carver Bearcat Stadium and Randal Whorton Field. They will be facing the Little Rock Hall High School Warriors. Our special guests will be the Louise Durham First and Second graders and the 1994 Football Conference Champion Bearcat Team. So, pack the stands and show our school spirit as we cheer on our athletes and musicians. Go Bearcats!

A big thank you to all of the wonderful grandparents who joined us yesterday and today for Grandparents' Day at Louise Durham Elementary! Your presence made the day extra special for our students, and we are grateful for your continued support. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizers and staff who worked hard to make the event a success. Your efforts brought joy to our school community!

Thank you to those who provided feedback in our Thought Exchange about the start of school. There were not very many of you but the responses were helpful and encouraging knowing that we had already identified the issues that came out in the Thought Exchange. Here are the results.

The #menareads effort is doing great! Keep it up!

It was a good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

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

Have a nice 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 your continued hard work and dedication as we navigate the start of this school year. With new guidelines and rules from the department coming into play, your adaptability and commitment are more important than ever. September is a pivotal month, and having a strong start in our academic efforts will set the tone for the entire year. As we conduct our start-of-year screening assessments, the baseline performance data we gather will be critical in establishing our academic goals and ensuring we meet the needs of all our students. Your focus on these assessments and your unwavering support of our students are essential to achieving a successful year. Let us continue to work together to make this a remarkable year of growth and achievement.

Now we will look back at this week and look forward to September as we head into a long Labor Day Weekend!

Arkansas Teacher of the Year Visit

Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Beau McCastlain, paid a special visit to Mena Schools yesterday. As a Television Production teacher at DeQueen Schools, Beau has been recognized for his innovative approach to education and his commitment to student success. This year, he has stepped into a unique role as a non-voting advisory member of the state board of education, a responsibility that comes with his Teacher of the Year title. During his visit, Beau took the time to learn about the exceptional programs we offer at Mena Public Schools, with a particular interest in the success of our REACH program participants. He plans to share his observations with the board as he continues to visit schools across the state, especially those in Southwest Arkansas. His dedication to understanding and promoting educational excellence is truly inspiring, and we are proud to have had the opportunity to showcase our schools.

September

As we recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month, it is a crucial time to reflect on the importance of mental health awareness and the role we all play in supporting our students and colleagues. Our counselors have provided valuable training to equip each of us with the tools to identify and respond to signs of distress in those around us. Please remember the strategies you learned, such as recognizing warning signs, initiating supportive conversations, and knowing when and how to refer someone for additional help. By staying vigilant and compassionate, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our students and co-workers, ensuring that they feel supported and valued during challenging times.

September is also College Savings Month and the first full month of the school year; but, there are other important days in September to look ahead to.

* September 2: Labor Day

* September 8: International Literacy Day

* September 8: National Grandparents’ Day

* September 11: 9-11 Remembrance Day

* September 15: Hispanic Heritage Month Begins (Sep. 15 – Oct. 15)

* September 17: Constitution Day

* September 17: International IT Professionals Day

* September 18: National School Backpack Awareness Day

* September 23-27: Celebrate Freedom Week

* September 25: #SeeSayDay (If You See Something, Say Something)

* September 27: National Teacher Assistants’ Day

Take Your Legislator to School Month

September is also Take Your Legislator to School Month in Arkansas, an opportunity for our local lawmakers to gain firsthand insight into the daily operations of our schools. With the 95th Arkansas General Assembly legislative session set to begin in January 2025, our legislators must understand the realities we face, as there are sure to be many bills affecting education. The decisions being made now will significantly impact all of us.

On Tuesday, August 20th, the Joint Education Committee of the House and Senate convened to discuss several key topics. The committee received reports from both the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Bureau of Legislative Research (BLR) on important issues such as Merit Pay, Teacher Recruitment and Retention, the Consumer Price Index, and health insurance recommendations. These findings will undergo further review, with the committee expected to provide funding recommendations in October. These are not the only issues our legislators will decide upon as the session draws near.

With education front and center for our legislators, this is an ideal time to invite them to visit our schools. Legislators like Representative John Maddox and Senator Terry Rice, who have shown strong support for our school and community, would undoubtedly appreciate the chance to see the impactful work happening in our classrooms, libraries, and laboratories.

DESE Rules Update

The Arkansas Legislative Council (ALC) met this week for final approval of the two rules below:

* DESE Rule Governing Public School Policies Relating to Overnight Travel and Use of Public School Lavatories

* DESE Rule Governing Educator Licensure

As part of the recently enacted state rules, there are important updates that all teachers need to be aware of, especially regarding the use of public school restrooms and the organization of overnight trips. These rules are designed to ensure the safety, privacy, and well-being of our students, and we all must understand and comply with them.

Restroom and Changing Area Usage:

The new rules require that all multiple occupancy restrooms and changing areas in public schools must be designated for exclusive use by either male or female students, as defined by the sex listed on their original birth certificate. Teachers and staff must ensure that students use the facilities designated for their sex, and any student who is unable or unwilling to use these designated facilities must be provided with reasonable accommodations, such as access to a single-occupancy restroom.

Importantly, the rules specify that accommodations cannot include access to a restroom or changing area designated for the opposite sex while members of that sex are present. Teachers should be vigilant in monitoring restroom usage to ensure compliance and prevent any potential violations.

Overnight Trips:

When organizing or supervising overnight trips, teachers must ensure that students share sleeping quarters only with members of the same sex or are provided with single-occupancy sleeping arrangements. Exceptions are made only if the student shares a room with a member of the opposite sex who is an immediate family member. Additionally, written authorization from a parent or legal guardian is required for any student under 18 participating in an overnight trip.

It is also important to note that there are significant penalties for non-compliance with these rules, including potential fines and sanctions. Therefore, teachers must strictly adhere to these guidelines and ensure that all arrangements comply with the new regulations.

Changes from Previous Years:

In previous years, the rules surrounding restroom usage and overnight trip arrangements were less rigid, with more flexibility allowed in accommodating students' individual needs and preferences. However, with the implementation of the new state rules, there is now a much stronger emphasis on strict adherence to sex-specific designations for restrooms and changing areas, as well as more stringent requirements for overnight trip accommodations.

These changes reflect a heightened focus on maintaining clear boundaries based on biological sex, as defined by the student's original birth certificate. The shift from a more inclusive approach to a strict, rule-based system underscores the importance of ensuring privacy and safety according to these new state mandates. Teachers and staff will need to adjust to these changes by closely following the new guidelines and being vigilant in their enforcement to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.

By understanding and adhering to these new regulations, we can ensure a safe and respectful environment for all students while fulfilling our legal responsibilities as educators. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the full details of these rules and reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification.

Closing

Tonight is the Bearcat Football season opener against DeQueen, and we encourage everyone to make the trip to support our team. It is a great opportunity to show your Bearcat pride and cheer on our athletes as they take the field. Our junior high and seventh-grade football teams set the tone with victories over DeQueen last night at home, so let us keep the momentum going. Join us in DeQueen tonight and be part of the excitement as we kick off the season!

If you are staying in town tonight, you can show your support for our students just as much by attending the Polk County Fair and the Junior Livestock Auction. Many of our Mena FFA and 4-H members have worked tirelessly throughout the spring and summer, and now they are ready to auction their winning livestock projects. This auction is a crucial opportunity for them to secure funding for future projects and to see the payoff for all their hard work. Your presence and support at the auction not only celebrate their achievements but also help ensure the continuation of these valuable educational experiences. Come out and support our local students as they showcase the results of their dedication and passion.

This week has been filled with victories for our volleyball, golf, and tennis teams. The volleyball team secured notable wins over Booneville, showcasing their strength and teamwork on the court. The tennis teams also had an outstanding performance, achieving a clean sweep against Fountain Lake. Additionally, our golf teams added to the success with strong showings in their matches. Congratulations to all our athletes for their dedication and hard work, and let us continue to support them as they build on this momentum.

It was a good week for us at Mena Public Schools!

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

Have a nice Labor Day 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