From December 10–12, school board members Mike Richardson, Farra Rowden, and Charlie Wray, along with Superintendent Kyle McCarn, attended the Arkansas School Boards Association (ASBA) Annual Conference in Little Rock. This annual conference brings together school board members and superintendents from across the state to focus on governance, leadership, and the shared responsibility of guiding Arkansas public schools.
Throughout the three-day event, the board members and superintendent participated in a wide range of training sessions covering key topics such as school law, district finance, policy development, student achievement, and board–superintendent relations. These sessions are designed to equip school leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions, respond to emerging challenges, and ensure schools operate effectively and responsibly. The training also reinforced the importance of understanding current legislation and state-level initiatives that directly impact local school districts.
The conference provided valuable opportunities for collaboration and networking with fellow board members, superintendents, and education professionals from across Arkansas. By sharing experiences and learning from other districts, the group gained insights into innovative practices and solutions that can be adapted to meet the needs of their own community. These conversations help strengthen leadership at the local level while keeping districts connected to statewide priorities and expectations.
Equally important was the role of representation at the state level. By attending the ASBA Annual Conference, board members Richardson, Rowden, and Wray, alongside Superintendent McCarn, ensured their district was present and engaged in broader discussions shaping the future of public education in Arkansas. Active participation in statewide organizations allows local districts to have a voice in policy discussions, advocacy efforts, and initiatives that influence funding, accountability, and educational opportunities for students.
Ongoing training for school board members is essential to effective governance. Well-informed boards are better prepared to set clear goals, support district leadership, and make decisions that place students first. Attendance at this conference reflects a commitment to continuous improvement, responsible leadership, and thoughtful stewardship of public resources.
By investing time in professional development and maintaining a strong presence at the state level, the board and Superintendent Kyle McCarn demonstrated their dedication to serving their community with integrity, knowledge, and a forward-looking vision for the district’s future.