School Board Meeting Recap: February 24, 2025

The February 24, 2025, FSPS Board of Education meeting covered key topics including the appointment of a new board member, updates on school safety funding, a proposed reorganization of alternative learning programs, a review of academic achievement data, and progress in the superintendent search. First, the Board focused on filling the vacant Zone IV position. Six eligible applications were received, and the Board voted to appoint Gregory Carthon to the position. He will serve a three-month appointment but will have to run for it in May if he wishes to continue in the role. 

Chief Huber presented the District’s plans for the Arkansas School Safety Grant, which is intended to improve safety and implement recommendations from the School Safety Commission. Applications for expenditure approval are due by February 28. The district plans to use the funds for critical safety improvements, including updated SRO equipment, police vehicles, security cameras, and Certification, policy, and compliance software. The District’s total projected expenditures amount to $861,541.28, with additional funds reserved for potential tax and price adjustments. 

Dr. Bone, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, and Dr. Jones, Director of Secondary Education, presented the district's future plans for an Alternative Learning Environment (ALE). Currently, K-5 ALE programs are housed at Beard and Sutton, while 6-12 ALE students attend Belle Point. The proposed model consolidates K-12 ALE programs at the Raymond F. Orr Learning Academy, with separate spaces for K-5 and 6-12 students, divided by controlled access. The K-5 program will introduce Positive Behavior Support, in partnership with ChanceLight, in the 2025-26 school year. For grades 6-12, the existing structure will be adjusted to implement a simplified point-based system for behavior, academics, and counseling. Additionally, the District will apply for a conversion charter for an Academic Center of Excellence (ACE) at Orr, allowing for greater flexibility in programming. The program aims to serve 350 students, offering flexible scheduling and online curriculum options. This model would allow students to participate in extracurricular activities and allow expelled students to work with certified teachers on Fridays. The board unanimously approved the plan.

Dr. Bone presented a Curriculum and Instruction Snapshot, comparing last year’s performance to the current year. The discussions focused on identifying professional learning needs to support continued improvement. While on-grade-level instruction has improved, the district aims to enhance purposeful technology interactions. Key focus areas include increasing the rigor of student work, providing training on clear assessment criteria, and further integrating technology using the SAMR model.

Lastly, the FSPS Board of Education President, Mr. Person, provided an update on the superintendent search. The application window closed on February 21, and McPherson & Jacobson, LLC, the contracted search firm, received 20 applications. The firm is currently conducting additional evaluations to narrow the candidate pool. The board anticipates holding a special meeting the week before spring break to discuss finalists and develop interview questions. Interviews are expected to take place the week after spring break to finalize the selection by mid-April.