The Conway Schools Board of Education Meeting was held on April 14 at 6 p.m. 

Members of the community could attend in person or watch via live stream. 

At this meeting student achievements, teacher recognition and community concerns about transparency were all highlighted.

The meeting began with announcements celebrating student and staff accomplishments across the district.

A seventh grade student from Carl Stuart Middle School was named Champion Student of the Month. 

Several Advanced Placement teachers were recognized as part of the district’s “Wampus Cat Pride” initiative.

“I’d like to highlight the amazing teachers that we have at Conway High School,” Conway High School principal Kate Worley said. “We currently offer 24 AP courses for 10th through 12th grade.”

Teachers recognized for their work included Shannon Bowen (AP Biology), Cody Johnson (AP Language), Nora Tedford (AP Spanish Language) and William Richardson (AP U.S. History).

Community partnership efforts were also highlighted, including support from Lisa’s Closets, an organization that has invested thousands of dollars into the district. 

Director Preston Eckles emphasized the impact of the partnership. 

“What we have here is individuals who love giving back through shoes,” Eckles said. “Shoes are one of the first things that you notice about an individual. These individuals put it at the forefront of being able to give our students the ability to have nice shoes.”

Student success in extracurricular activities was also recognized. 

The district announced its 2026 mock trial state champions.

The unified basketball team for winning its fourth consecutive AAA state championship were also honored. 

“Unified basketball creates an inclusive opportunity for special education students by promoting social connection through shared training and competition built on the principle of training together and playing together,” said Mrs. Riyals. “This year, our team won its fourth consecutive AAA state championship in Hot Springs.”

District officials also highlighted funding achievements. 

Dr. Bryce Bennet said educators secured nearly $190,000 in grant funding for the 2025 – 2026 school year. 

“We have a dedicated group of educators that, in addition to taking care of students and responsibilities associated with their roles, have also written grants and been awarded funding totaling $189,803.41,” Bennet said. “52 of the grants came directly from Conway Public Schools Foundation for a total of $48,600.”

During the public comment portion of the meeting, a few community members raised concerns about transparency and trust within the district.

Alice Hardy said transparency means operating in a way that allows the public to see how decisions are made. 

Tyler Moses echoed those concerns, adding that some teachers feel their voices are not being heard. 

Jimmy Cabin also addressed the board, stating there is a lack of public trust between the community and the school district.

Superintendent Jason Black thanked first responders for their assistance during a bomb threat at the district’s junior high school earlier that day. 

Black specifically recognized the Conway Police Department, Conway firefighters, school resource officers and the bomb squad for their help.

Worley also provided updates on upcoming graduation plans for Conway High School.

In other business, the board voted to approve the consent agenda. 

Members also moved to approve the district’s salary schedule as presented.

The meeting reflected both celebration of achievements within Conway Public Schools and ongoing concerns from community members about transparency and communication.

The next Conway Schools Board of Education Meeting will be held on Tuesday May 12 at 6 p.m.