EL DORADO – The El Dorado School Board met this week and highlighted significant achievements within the district. However, the one subject that the Board is waiting to address, is the proposed changes to the school calendar for the 2025-26 School Year.

A motion to either accept or reject the calendar was before the board. Citing the need for more public input, the members chose to table the discussion and subsequent vote until their January 2025 meeting. The board encouraged further public feedback before the January 13, 2025 vote.

Board Member Todd Whatley specifically asked to hear from district parents and said he welcomes any phone calls at (870) 314-9219. (See editor’s note at end of the story)

Student of the Month: Greysi Diaz Perez

Washington Middle School’s Greysi Diaz Perez was named Student of the Month. Greysi, who entered the school with no prior knowledge of English, has worked tirelessly to overcome this challenge and excel. Teachers describe her as a student who “goes the extra mile” and spreads positivity to her peers. Her kindness and strong work ethic have made her a role model for others. Her parents, Humberto Diaz and Angela Perez, were also acknowledged for their ongoing support of Greysi.

Classified Employee of the Month: Trish Hicks

Trish Hicks, a paraprofessional with 22 years of experience, was honored as Classified Employee of the Month. Known for her dedication to students and her strong relationships with them, Trish was described as a “blessing to Washington Middle School.” The Board pointed out her hard work and commitment to student success are highly valued. 

Advertisement

Teacher of the Month: Ethan Kelton

Ethan Kelton, a teacher at Washington Middle School, was recognized as Teacher of the Month. With dual bachelor’s degrees in Kinesiology Applied Science and Kinesiology in Physical Education from the University of Arkansas and eight years of teaching experience. Mr. Kelton teaches Science, leads the Archery Team, and is an active participant in student events, whether on the field, in the stands, or at theater productions. His dedication to his students both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as going above and beyond were just a few of the things pointed to by Superintendent Tucker and the Board. 

Meeting Highlights

Principal’s Report

Bethanie Hale, Principal of Washington Middle School, shared several key updates during the meeting:

• Innovative Programs: She highlighted the Kagan Structure challenge, which promotes active and collaborative learning.
• Sonic Grants: Two teachers received Sonic Grants, allowing them to attend the renowned Ron Clark Academy for professional development.
• Cowbell Celebrations: These celebrations are held when students master specific subjects, offering a fun and motivating way to celebrate academic achievements.
• Attendance Improvement: Washington Middle School has seen a significant improvement in attendance this year, which Mrs. Hale emphasized is crucial to student success.
• Teacher Recognition: Mrs. Hale also presented at a national conference in Orlando and noted several district teachers who have been highlighted by the State Education Board and are scheduled to present at upcoming educational conferences.

Proposed Changes to the 2025-2026 Calendar

The board discussed two potential calendars for the 2025-2026 school year, with a vote scheduled for January:

1. Traditional Calendar: A standard school schedule with 178 days.
2. Year-Round Calendar: Also with 178 school days but featuring more frequent and/or longer breaks throughout the year. 

Key points from the discussion included:

• Support for Change: Approximately 60% of the community supported the year-round calendar, while 76.5% of teachers voted in favor of the change.
• Reported Benefits: Districts in Camden, Magnolia, and Hot Springs have already implemented the year-round schedule, citing improvements in attendance.
• Childcare Solutions: Superintendent Jim Tucker addressed concerns about childcare, stating that the district will offer affordable childcare for students in grades K-6 at just $10 per day. Additionally, eight local childcare providers have agreed to offer “drop-in services” during breaks.
• Flexibility: Mr. Tucker emphasized that the calendar is reviewed and voted on annually, allowing flexibility if the system does not prove effective.

EDITOR’S NOTE: (SouthArkansasNow.com is planning a virtual community forum in the coming days that will be available for live streaming and interaction. We will have more details about the forum soon.)

Stay updated on developments at SouthArkansasNow.com.