News

El Dorado School Board Talks Bonds, Achievements

Published

1 year ago

April 15, 2025

Jax Sanford

El Dorado School Board Meeting Highlights: Honors, Achievements, and Exciting Updates Across the District

El Dorado, AR — April 14, 2025
The El Dorado School Board convened on Monday evening to cover a packed agenda celebrating exceptional students, staff, and landmark decisions shaping the district’s future.

Bond Resolution Passes Just in Time

The board approved a key bond resolution, led by financial advisor Jason Holsclaw, locking in a favorable interest rate of 4.357% just ahead of a significant market shift. Holsclaw submitted the paperwork on April 1, narrowly avoiding an estimated 80-point increase in bond interest rates. The move was applauded as a smart financial step that could save the district considerable funds over time.

Legendary Coach Honored

Philip Lansdell Honored as Arkansas’ Top Athletic Director — Again

The board took time to honor Philip Lansdell, who was recently named both the 5A Athletic Director of the Year and Overall Athletic Director of the Year for the state of Arkansas — a rare and remarkable achievement. This marks Lansdell’s second time receiving the prestigious honor, having also earned it during the 2011–2012 school year, making him one of only two individuals to be recognized with both titles twice in the history of the awards.

Throughout his tenure, Lansdell’s unwavering dedication to El Dorado athletics has left a lasting legacy. Over the course of his career, he oversaw more than $5 million in facility upgrades, helping to create top-tier environments for student-athletes across multiple sports. His leadership helped El Dorado teams capture numerous state championships, building a reputation for both excellence and integrity.

One of the most telling examples of Lansdell’s commitment? In all his years of service, the only football game he ever missed was while recovering from knee surgery—and even then, he made an effort to travel.

When asked what kept him showing up day in and day out, Lansdell gave a simple, powerful answer:

“It’s called work ethic. It’s what you’re supposed to do.”

He expressed deep confidence in the district’s future, especially in his successor:

“I know that my replacement has the same work ethic.”

As Lansdell looks toward retirement, he shared a candid reflection:

“I’ve been in school since I was 6 years old, so retirement will be a whole new world.”

His colleagues and community members agree on one thing: there will never be another Philip Lansdell. But his influence, and the programs he’s built, will carry on through the countless students, coaches, and staff he’s impacted over the years.

Jennifer Michaels Named Arkansas Orchestra Director of the Year

The School Board proudly recognized Jennifer Michaels, who was recently named the Arkansas Orchestra Director of the Year — an award voted on by music educators across the state. Michaels, whose passion and dedication have become a cornerstone of El Dorado’s music program, received the award as both a personal achievement and a reflection of the excellence she inspires in her students.

In addition to her role as El Dorado’s Orchestra Director, Michaels serves as the South Region Chair and has also served honorably and favorably as Chair of the State Orchestra Board, advocating for high standards in music education across Arkansas. Her leadership in these roles has earned her widespread respect from her peers and deep appreciation from her school community.

During the meeting, Superintendent Jim Tucker took a moment to recognize Michaels not only for her professional accomplishments but also for the character she brings to the district, calling her:

“Brave, bold, and an amazing director.”

Michaels expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the collaborative spirit behind her success:

“I am humbled by the honor of the award, and it would have been impossible for this to happen without the support of the district, the students, the parents, the coaches… Everyone is welcome to come to every concert we have for the remainder of the year!”

And the El Dorado Orchestra will soon perform side-by-side with the South Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, offering students unique opportunities to perform and learn in professional settings. Her influence extends beyond technical skill — she fosters confidence, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the arts in every student who walks through her door.

Michaels’ recognition is not just a win for her — it’s a celebration of El Dorado’s thriving fine arts community and the district’s commitment to excellence in all areas of education.

Washington Middle School Spotlights

WMS took center stage during the meeting as administrators celebrated students and staff making a difference:

Student of the Month: Amelia Felton
Recognized for her perseverance, Amelia has made remarkable progress in reading, overcoming challenges through sheer determination. “She is the ideal model of what a Washington Knight should be,” said Mrs. Hale.
Classified Employee of the Month: Courtney Watkins
With eight years of experience and a joyful presence, Watkins was honored for her dedication to student well-being. Known for writing menus in multiple languages and lifting spirits every day, she’s seen as both a problem solver and the “life of the party.”
Teacher of the Month: Brinkley Ashcraft
A district educator since 2018, Ashcraft teaches Art and Fashion Design. Affectionately known as the “school momma,” her energetic and creative teaching—like using geometry in art lessons—helps students engage deeply in learning.

Washington Middle School Report: Achievements and Opportunities

Principal updates highlighted a vibrant school culture focused on academic and personal growth:

El Dorado Promise Pledge reinforced the generosity of The El Dorado Promise
Lion King Jr. play to debut in May
College field trips to SouthArk and SAU inspired future planning
Ron Clark Academy training awarded to two teachers for differentiated instruction development
Archery Teams: Double state champions in 5th and 6th grade; both teams advancing to Nationals
Academic Growth: 533 of 579 students showed improvement on interim assessments
Spring Family Night and anticipation of an Educational Assistance Animal rounded out an impressive update

The board closed the meeting by commending all honorees for their excellence and reaffirming their commitment to student success and community involvement.

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News

El Dorado Man Faces Charges After SWAT Standoff

Published

15 hours ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — A 39-year-old El Dorado man is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Union County District Court on Friday after being taken into custody following a lengthy police standoff earlier this week.

According to the El Dorado Police Department, Gary Lee Moore was arrested Tuesday morning after officers responded to a reported aggravated assault and spent more than an hour attempting to negotiate his surrender.

Authorities said officers were first called to South Arkansas Regional Hospital at approximately 6:45 a.m. Tuesday after receiving information about a suspected aggravated assault. Investigators reported that the victim told officers Moore had threatened her life and warned that he would kill any law enforcement officers who attempted to intervene.

Following the report, officers went to a residence in the 2700 block of Mount Holly Road to locate Moore.

Police secured the area around the residence, including shutting down a portion of Mount Holly Road, while ensuring no other individuals were inside the home. Crisis negotiators then began efforts to persuade Moore to surrender peacefully.

According to police, negotiators used verbal commands and communicated with Moore several times by telephone during the standoff. Despite those efforts, Moore repeatedly refused to leave the residence.

After negotiations proved unsuccessful, the El Dorado Police Department’s SWAT team implemented tactical measures that ultimately prompted Moore to exit the home.

Moore was taken into custody without further incident.

He has been charged with aggravated assault, terroristic threatening, resisting arrest and several additional charges.

Moore remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in Union County District Court on June 5.

The investigation remains ongoing.

News

Youth Festival Of The Arts Set For This Weekend

Published

15 hours ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, — Young artists from across South Arkansas will have an opportunity to display their creativity and connect with the community during the upcoming Youth Festival of the Arts on Saturday, June 6.

The event, presented through a partnership between the South Arkansas Arts Center and the Boys & Girls Club of Union County, will take place from 10 a.m. until noon at the Boys & Girls Club, located at 1201 N. West Ave. in El Dorado.

Organizers describe the event as a one-of-a-kind children’s art marketplace designed to celebrate and support young artists while encouraging creativity and artistic expression.

The festival will transform the indoor Lanxess Gym at the Boys & Girls Club into an art fair featuring artwork created by children and youth from throughout the region. Community members will have the opportunity to view the artwork, meet young artists and show their support for the next generation of creative talent.

The event is part of an ongoing effort by both organizations to provide artistic opportunities for local youth and help foster an appreciation for the arts in South Arkansas.

SAAC and the Boys & Girls Club have partnered on numerous programs focused on arts education, and organizers say the Youth Festival of the Arts is designed to give young creators a platform to share their work while building confidence and developing their artistic skills.

Community members are encouraged to attend and help support the area’s emerging artists.

Event Details

What: Youth Festival of the Arts
When: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Boys & Girls Club of Union County, 1201 N. West Ave., El Dorado
Hosted By: South Arkansas Arts Center and Boys & Girls Club of Union County
Admission: Open to the public

The event offers families a chance to celebrate creativity, encourage young artists and enjoy a morning dedicated to the arts in El Dorado.

News

Juneteenth Celebration Set For June 19th

Published

16 hours ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Families from across South Arkansas are invited to gather for a day of celebration, education and community as the Justice League hosts its annual Juneteenth Stop the Violence Family Fun Day on June 19 at the Murphy Arts District Amphitheater.

The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the MAD Amphitheater and will feature food, entertainment, activities for children and community engagement opportunities designed to bring residents together while promoting peace and unity.

Organizers say attendees can enjoy free food, frozen treats, community vendors, a bounce house, water slide, poster contest, speakers, live entertainment and free T-shirts while supplies last.

The event is presented by the Justice League and made possible through support from title sponsor Clean Harbors.

Celebrating Juneteenth

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved African Americans that they were free—more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Although Lincoln’s proclamation officially declared enslaved people in Confederate states free on Jan. 1, 1863, enforcement depended on the presence of Union troops. In many parts of the South, slavery continued until federal troops arrived and enforced the order.

The announcement in Texas marked one of the final acts of emancipation in the United States and became a day of celebration among formerly enslaved people and their descendants.

Over the decades, Juneteenth grew from local community gatherings into a nationally recognized observance. In 2021, Juneteenth became a federal holiday, officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day.

Today, communities across the country celebrate the holiday with festivals, educational programs, cultural events, parades and family gatherings that honor freedom, resilience and African American history.

Bringing the Community Together

Organizers of the El Dorado event say the Family Fun Day is designed not only to celebrate Juneteenth but also to encourage positive community engagement and promote efforts to reduce violence through education, fellowship and outreach.

Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend and take part in the festivities.

Event Information

What: Juneteenth Stop the Violence Family Fun Day
When: June 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Murphy Arts District Amphitheater, El Dorado
Admission: Free
Activities: Food, frozen treats, vendors, bounce house, water slide, poster contest, speakers, entertainment and more

The event is open to the public and welcomes families throughout the region to celebrate Juneteenth and the spirit of community together.

News

“Calling The Hogs” Event With Chuck Barrett Set For Tonight

Published

16 hours ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Razorback fans will have a chance to hear behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most recognizable voices in Arkansas sports tonight as “Calling The Hogs – Stories from the Booth” comes to the Murphy Arts District.

The special event, scheduled for June 4 inside the First Financial Music Hall, will feature legendary Arkansas Razorbacks play-by-play broadcaster Chuck Barrett, whose voice has become synonymous with some of the most memorable moments in Razorback athletics.

Barrett will share stories from his years behind the microphone, offering fans a unique look at the people, moments and memories that have shaped Arkansas sports. The evening is expected to include tales from the broadcast booth, locker room stories and insights into some of the biggest games in Razorback history.

Serving as master of ceremonies will be longtime Arkansas broadcaster and storyteller Rex Nelson, who will help guide the conversation and add his own blend of humor and perspective throughout the program.

Guests will also enjoy a catered dinner provided by Madhouse 101. Dinner service begins at 6:30 p.m. before the evening’s program gets underway.

Organizers say the event is designed to bring together sports fans, community members and supporters of Arkansas athletics for an entertaining night of storytelling and fellowship.

Tickets are $50 per person, plus applicable fees and taxes. Seating is limited.

The event will be held tonight at the First Financial Music Hall at Murphy Arts District in downtown El Dorado.

Event Details

What: Calling The Hogs – Stories from the Booth
When: Tonight, June 4
Where: First Financial Music Hall at Murphy Arts District, El Dorado
Dinner Service: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $50 per person plus fees and taxes
Seating: Limited availability

News

Farmers Market On The Square Celebrates Growers Month

Published

16 hours ago

June 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Main Street El Dorado is inviting families to kick off June with fresh produce, local vendors and a creative activity for children during this week’s Farmers Market on the Square.

As part of Growers Month, the market will welcome local artist Pam Vernon for a free watercolor class designed especially for children. The class will take place Saturday, June 6, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., offering young artists an opportunity to explore their creativity while learning the basics of watercolor painting.

The activity is free and open to children attending the market with their families.

The Farmers Market on the Square is held every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon on Jefferson Avenue near the Union County Courthouse in downtown El Dorado. The market features a variety of local growers, farmers, artisans and vendors offering fresh produce, homemade goods, plants and other locally sourced products.

Main Street El Dorado officials say Growers Month is a celebration of the farmers and producers who help supply fresh, locally grown products to the community throughout the season.

Families are encouraged to come early, shop the market and participate in the watercolor class while enjoying a morning in downtown El Dorado.

The event provides a fun and educational opportunity for children while supporting local growers and small businesses that make the Farmers Market a community favorite each summer.