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Finances, Student Honors Top El Dorado School Board Meeting

Published

1 year ago

May 14, 2025

Jax Sanford

El Dorado School District Board Meeting Summary – May 12, 2025

The El Dorado School District convened for its monthly board meeting on May 12, 2025, addressing key financial reports, program updates, recognitions, and the continued growth of its students and staff. The meeting highlighted the district’s strong financial performance, commitment to student welfare, and recognition of remarkable achievements within the community.

Audit Report Presented by Michael Cobb

Michael Cobb presented the annual audit report, delivering the positive news of a “Clean Opinion” with zero instances of non-compliance or unaccounted transactions. The district’s financial performance for 2024 exceeded expectations, with actual revenue totaling $44.6 million against a budgeted $44.4 million, while expenses were $42 million compared to the $41.2 million budgeted.

The district managed its operational fund effectively, generating $3.5 million in revenue over expenses. These surplus funds were transferred to the Debt Service Fund, contributing to long-term financial stability. Cobb also noted that $4.8 million is required to be utilized between fiscal years 2025 and 2026, and that the Property Assessed Value of the District is approximately $750 million. The board unanimously approved the audit.

Extra Duty Pay Stipends and Salary Schedule Update

The board reviewed and approved updates to the Extra Duty Pay Stipends and the Salary Schedule, reflecting its ongoing commitment to supporting its educators and staff.

Lunch Pricing Adjustments

Due to changes in federal eligibility, the district is no longer qualified for universal free lunch. The board proposed and approved a price of $3.00 for a regular line lunch. This falls in line with districts in the area. However, the Free and Reduced Lunch programs remain available for families in need, and the state legislature has secured free breakfast for all students daily. The board assured that no student would be denied lunch due to non-payment, emphasizing the district’s dedication to student well-being.

Arkansas Seals of Biliteracy Recognition

Heather Jennings, ESL Coordinator for the district, proudly presented the Arkansas Seals of Biliteracy awards to students who demonstrated proficiency in multiple languages:

10th Grade: Ignacio Chavez & Fredling Sarahy Mendoza Salmeron
11th Grade: Abbigail Jasso, Daniela Paralta, and Samuel Ramirez
12th Grade: Denisse Hernandez & Ariana Jasso

These recognitions underscore the district’s commitment to language diversity and global readiness.

SAU Resident Recognition

Two exceptional students were acknowledged for their accomplishments as SAU Residents:

Nealy Elkins: Nealy was honored for her outstanding academic performance and dedication to her educational journey. As a second-grade teacher at Northwest Elementary, she is known for her passion for teaching and her ability to inspire young minds. Her commitment to student growth and learning has set a standard within the district. Nealy is also actively involved in collegiate activities, demonstrating leadership and a drive to excel. Her recognition reflects the hard work and impact she has made on her students and the school community.
Cambell Warner: Cambell was recognized for her leadership and academic excellence, balancing her responsibilities as a fifth-grade science teacher at Washington Middle School with her graduate coursework and sorority commitments. Her ability to manage multiple roles with grace and commitment serves as an example for her peers. Campbell’s enthusiasm for teaching and her dedication to student success make her a valued member of the educational community. Her recognition highlights her positive influence both inside and outside the classroom.

Yocum Primary Recognition

Yocum Primary shined the spotlight on its outstanding community members:

Student of the Month: Katherine Briones Valerio, a 1st grader whose enthusiasm and kindness brighten the school daily. Katherine is known for her caring nature and her constant willingness to help others, always greeting her classmates with a smile. Her teachers describe her as a friend to everyone she meets and someone who radiates positivity. Her willingness to lend a hand and her joyful spirit make her a role model for her peers. Katherine’s recognition as Student of the Month is a reflection of her impact at Yocum Primary.
Classified Employee of the Month: Melinda King has served as a secretary for five years at Yocum Primary. More than just a secretary, Melinda is the heart of the school’s daily operations. She is known for her ability to multitask–coordinating fundraisers, providing first aid, and even bringing joy to students and staff with her “jingle-singing” spirit. Her kindness and efficiency ensure that Yocum Primary runs smoothly, and her contributions are deeply valued by the entire school community.
Teacher of the Month: Ashley Collinsworth, a Literacy Facilitator with 18 years of experience, is known for her genuine passion for teaching and her deep understanding of K-1 Literacy. Her expertise allows her to connect with students who often struggle, finding ways to make learning both engaging and accessible. Ashley is more than just a teacher; she’s a mentor and a friend to her students, always ready to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. Her colleagues admire her hands-on approach and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure every child succeeds. Thanks to her dedication and heartfelt commitment, literacy test scores have consistently improved, reflecting the meaningful impact she has on her classroom and the broader community.

Yocum Elementary Recognition

Yocum Elementary proudly recognized the achievements of its standout community members:

Student of the Month: Zamarion Lowery, affectionately known as “Z,” is a 4th grader whose positive attitude and kindness make him a role model among his peers. Z is described as incredibly responsible, always eager to lend a helping hand and demonstrate respect to those around him. His teachers admire his unwavering kindness and strong moral compass, which guide his actions both in and out of the classroom. Z’s genuine care for others is evident in his daily interactions, and he consistently strives to make his school a better place. His optimism and resilience are inspiring to his classmates and educators alike.
Classified Employee of the Month: Savannah Brown is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education while working at Yocum Elementary. Known for her extraordinary dedication, Savannah goes above and beyond daily to ensure that each student receives the support they need. Her colleagues describe her as compassionate, hardworking, and always willing to take on additional responsibilities when needed. Savannah embodies the spirit of Yocum Elementary through her positive attitude and commitment to student success. Her passion for education and willingness to take initiative have made a lasting impact on the students she serves.
Teacher of the Month: Nicole McAdams is celebrated for her extraordinary commitment to her students and her community, even while facing the personal battle of cancer treatment and chemotherapy. Despite the challenges, Nicole never wavered in her dedication, showing up for her students with a smile and a spirit that inspired those around her. Her nurturing spirit creates lasting connections with both students and colleagues, who admire her strength and resilience. More than just a teacher, Nicole is a pillar of support and kindness, always willing to go the extra mile to ensure her students feel valued and understood. Her colleagues describe her as irreplaceable, a true embodiment of courage and love for teaching. Her perseverance and unwavering optimism continue to inspire her students and the entire Yocum Elementary community.

Yocum Principal’s Report

Yocum Elementary’s Principal, Jessica Moore, shared several standout achievements during her report, particularly highlighting student performance on the ATLAS Winter Interim assessments. Among 9,000 third-grade students across the state, only 73 scored a perfect 4 in elaboration, with Azul Perez being the sole representative from Yocum Elementary—a remarkable accomplishment that speaks to her dedication and focus. In the fourth grade, out of 5,000 students, only six reached the top score of 4 in elaboration, and Paisley McClelland proudly represented Yocum as the only one from the district to achieve this milestone.

These accomplishments reflect the school’s strong instructional focus, which has not only reduced disciplinary referrals before recess but also increased student attendance. An impressive 78% of students in the 3rd and 4th grades demonstrated growth on the ATLAS Winter Interim assessments, showcasing the effectiveness of Yocum’s educational strategies. Principal Moore expressed her pride in these students and praised the dedication of Yocum’s educators for fostering an environment where academic excellence thrives.

Yocum Elementary’s focus on cultivating relationships, building self-managing classrooms, and improving academic performance continues to shine as a model for student achievement and community support.

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Calling the Hogs Event Draws Strong Crowd in El Dorado

Published

11 seconds ago

June 5, 2026

J.W. Misenheimer

EL DORADO, Ark. — Razorback fans and community supporters packed the First Financial Music Hall at the Murphy Arts District Thursday evening for Calling The Hogs – Stories from the Booth, an event that brought together Arkansas sports stories, dinner, fellowship and fundraising.

The evening featured Chuck Barrett, the well-known voice of the Arkansas Razorbacks, who shared stories from his years behind the microphone and offered guests an inside look at some of the most memorable moments in Arkansas sports. Longtime Arkansas broadcaster and storyteller Rex Nelson served as Master of Ceremonies, helping guide the evening with humor, insight and plenty of Hog spirit.

The catered event, with dinner provided by Madhouse 101, drew a strong turnout, with venue tables filled throughout the evening. In addition to the program, guests also took part in an auction, where every auction item was sold.

Organizers said the event was a great success, bringing together Razorback fans, local supporters and community members for an evening centered on storytelling, sports nostalgia and South Arkansas hospitality.

Watch a quick highlight from the event!

News

El Dorado Man Faces Charges After SWAT Standoff

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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

1 day 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

1 day 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.