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ESD Board Votes Down Calendar Changes

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EL DORADO  – After an extensive debate Monday night, the El Dorado School Board voted 4-2 to reject proposed changes to the 2025 school calendar.

Board members weighed a number of facts on both sides of the issue during their monthly meeting.

Board member Susan Tuberville voiced concerns about the potential negative effects of a proposed calendar change on vulnerable students. She highlighted that a significant number of students in the district live at or below the poverty line and that many require special education services. Tuberville worried that a week-long break could cause students to regress, undoing progress made during the school term. She also noted the emotional challenges such breaks might create for children from broken homes, as disputes over custody arrangements could be exacerbated.

Tuberville and Vicky Dobson also discussed the economic burden the changes could impose on families. Even with discounted childcare rates, the financial strain of extended breaks might be overwhelming for many parents. Additionally, Tuberville raised concerns about the impact on older students, suggesting that extended breaks could interfere with summer jobs and internships. These opportunities are vital for high school students, providing both income and valuable experience needed for college or career preparation.

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Community feedback on the proposed changes has also been largely negative, according to board members Todd Whatley and Keith Smith. Many parents and community members have expressed worries about the disruptions to single-parent households and the logistical challenges of managing extended breaks. They also noted that students often require additional time to readjust when returning to school after longer breaks, with the initial days focused more on review than on new learning.

However, some board members pointed to reported benefits from other districts that have adopted similar calendars. Mr. Tucker cited examples from Marion, Hot Springs, and Magnolia, where schools saw improvements in attendance rates for both students and teachers. Despite initial resistance, Tucker claimed that these communities have since embraced the new calendar structure.

Wayne Gibson stressed the importance of supporting teachers, arguing that making education easier for educators ultimately benefits students. He urged the board to prioritize policies that improve teacher effectiveness and well-being. Meanwhile, Renee Skinner raised a critical issue about food security, emphasizing the need to continue summer lunch programs to ensure students who rely on school meals during the academic year have access to food during extended breaks.

Recognition and Achievements Highlighted at School Board Meeting

On Monday, January 13, 2025, the El Dorado School Board had an opportunity to recognize outstanding individuals and celebrate key achievements within the district. The following highlights showcase the commitment and accomplishments of students, staff, and administrators:

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Zylks Honored for His Service

Tim Zylks, a respected leader in state transportation, was recognized for his service as the district’s director of pupil transport. Zylks has also served on numerous committees and boards, and he will be inducted into the Hall of Honor of the Arkansas Association for Pupil Transportation (AAPT) in 2024. Although Mr. Zylks retired a few years ago, the board extended their heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Zylks for his dedication and contributions and congratulated him on his induction to the AAPT Hall of Honor.

Barton Junior High Recognitions

  • Student of the Month: Josey Camacho Josey Camacho, a 7th-grade student, was named Student of the Month for her exceptional reliability, dedication, and positive attitude. An avid reader and the school leader in Accelerated Reader (AR) points, Josey works in the library and is an enthusiastic cheerleader. Teachers describe her as a joy to have in class, embodying the “Wildkitten Way.”


  • Classified Employee of the Month: Joyce Edwards Joyce Edwards was recognized for her dedication and impact as a food service employee. Having worked in the district for three years, Edwards transitioned from a substitute role to a full-time position, earning admiration for her helpfulness and positivity. She expressed gratitude to God and her colleagues for inspiring her to grow and contribute daily.


  • Teacher of the Month: Earlene Burns Earlene Burns, a 7th and 8th-grade special education teacher with over 30 years of experience at Barton, was honored as Teacher of the Month. Known for her reliability, positive attitude, and commitment to her students, Burns attributes her success to the encouragement of past and present colleagues and administrators. She expressed deep gratitude to God for the recognition and reaffirmed her dedication to providing quality education.

Barton Junior High’s Principal’s Report: Michelle Henry

Barton Junior High demonstrated notable achievements in state ATLAS assessments:

  • 7th graders scored above the state average in ELA (English Language Arts) and Science, while falling below in Math.
  • Eighth graders outperformed in Math but scored lower in ELA.
  • 100% of Algebra 1 students achieved proficiency on the ATLAS Algebra portion. The school’s performance surpassed many regional districts, underscoring the hard work of both students and educators.

Moving Forward

Board members and administrators emphasized their commitment to addressing the concerns raised during the meeting. Plans are underway to explore additional support for families and educators while maintaining a focus on academic success and community well-being.

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Chamber Cash Mob Heads To Gabe’s Cave Saturday

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EL DORADO – Residents are encouraged to show their support for local business at the upcoming Cash Mob event happening this Saturday, April 19, at Gabe’s Cave, located at 2101 N College Avenue in El Dorado. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving shoppers a chance to rally around one of the city’s most unique and community-driven small businesses.

A “Cash Mob” is a grassroots event aimed at boosting small businesses by encouraging residents to spend locally. Shoppers are asked to commit to spending at least $25 at Gabe’s Cave during the event—and in return, they’ll be eligible for door prizes just for showing up.

This event is more than just a shopping trip—it’s a community celebration. Attendees will have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny between 10 a.m. and noon, making it a perfect stop for families with young children. The store will also have plenty of Easter basket fillers, collectibles, and pop culture merchandise available for purchase.

Organizers hope the event will provide a strong show of support for Gabe’s Cave, a local favorite known for its comics, collectibles, and welcoming atmosphere.

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“Whether you’re a comic book fan, a collector, or just someone who loves to shop local, this is your chance to help a small business thrive,” said event organizers. “It’s easy, it’s fun, and it truly makes a difference.”

Mark your calendars and come be part of something that directly impacts the El Dorado community. Support small business. Shop local. Make a difference.

For more information, visit the Gabe’s Cave Facebook page.

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Severe Weather Expected In Easter Forecast

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EL DORADO – The National Weather Service in Little Rock is warning residents across South Arkansas to stay weather-aware this Sunday, April 20, as a powerful storm system moves across the region. Forecasters say the system could bring large hail, damaging winds, and even isolated tornadoes during the afternoon and evening hours.

According to the NWS’s latest Severe Weather Outlook map, much of Arkansas—including El Dorado, Camden, Magnolia, and surrounding communities—falls under a Level 2 (Slight Risk) for severe weather. The risk is part of a broader area of concern stretching across central and northern Arkansas, where the chances for significant weather activity are even higher due to the proximity of an upper-level disturbance and frontal boundary.

“While the more organized severe weather threat is expected across northern Arkansas, South Arkansas is still under the gun for severe thunderstorms,” the National Weather Service stated. “This system has the potential to produce hail up to one inch in diameter, wind gusts up to 60 mph, and an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.”

The storm system, described by meteorologists as “compact but powerful,” will pass to the north and west of the state on Sunday, dragging with it a trailing cold front. This front will interact with warm and unstable air across Arkansas, helping to trigger storm development throughout the afternoon and into the nighttime hours.

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Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially as storms are expected to linger into the evening. Outdoor events or church services planned for Sunday afternoon could be affected by rapidly changing conditions.

Emergency officials are urging residents to review their severe weather safety plans, secure outdoor items, and stay tuned to South Arkansas Now  throughout the weekend.

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Grand Opening Scheduled For 7Brew Coffee

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EL DORADO – The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony for the city’s newest coffee destination, 7 Brew Drive-Thru Coffee, on Wednesday, May 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. The event will take place at the new location at 2100 N. West Avenue and is open to the public.

Founded in Rogers, Arkansas, in 2017, 7 Brew has quickly become one of the fastest-growing drive-thru coffee chains in the nation. Known for its energetic service and expansive menu of over 20,000 customizable drink combinations, 7 Brew offers a unique coffee experience designed for speed, friendliness, and flavor.

The company was launched with a mission to “cultivate kindness” through both customer service and community involvement. With locations now spread across multiple states, 7 Brew continues to grow through a combination of franchising and corporate stores, all built around its signature double-lane drive-thru model.

The grand opening will feature a formal ribbon cutting, and local officials and community members are encouraged to attend and support the launch. The event will highlight 7 Brew’s arrival as part of El Dorado’s ongoing commercial growth.

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For more information on the event, contact the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce.

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El Dorado Schools Conducting Needs Assessment Survey

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EL DORADO — The El Dorado School District is asking parents, students, and community members to participate in a Comprehensive Needs Assessment Survey as part of an effort to shape the future of local education.

The survey is designed to gather feedback on the district’s strengths, priorities, and areas for improvement. Responses will help inform decisions on programs, resources, and planning for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.

District officials say the input collected from the community will be vital in identifying key areas for academic and operational growth. The survey is open now and will remain available through Friday, May 9, 2025.

“We want to ensure every voice is heard,” the district shared in a public message. “Your feedback plays an essential role in helping us improve and build a stronger educational environment for all students.”

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The survey is available online and can be accessed by clicking here.

Community members are encouraged to complete the survey as soon as possible to ensure their voices are included in the district’s planning process.

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Clean Harbors To Accept Hazardous Household Waste

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EL DORADO – In a continued effort to promote environmental responsibility and community cleanup, Union County Judge Mike Loftin announced that Clean Harbors El Dorado will offer free monthly drop-off services for household hazardous waste beginning this Saturday, April 19.

The service, timed to coincide with Earth Day celebrations, will be available on the third Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. through September. Residents can bring qualifying hazardous materials to the Clean Harbors facility located at 309 American Circle in El Dorado.

The program is free to the public, courtesy of Clean Harbors El Dorado. Items must be brought in sturdy, disposable containers. Accepted materials include:

  • Used oil and filters

  • Batteries

  • Paints

  • Antifreeze

  • Degreasers

  • Dry cleaning fluids

  • Herbicides and pesticides

  • Pool chemicals

  • Fluorescent bulbs

  • Over-the-counter medicines

  • Butane and propane cylinders

Community members with questions can contact Clean Harbors El Dorado at (870) 863-7173 for more information.

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Officials encourage residents to take advantage of the service as part of a broader countywide effort to enhance environmental stewardship and keep Union County clean.

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