The following questions were posed to Prescott Superintendent Hyacinth Deon. Questions are presented in bold.
How did the opening of school go?
We had a great opening of school. We had excited, happy children and a prepared faculty and staff. Over the summer break teachers have put in many hours of professional development in writing, classroom management and English Language Learner strategies. They have been using data to plan curriculum and instructional activities to better meet the needs of our diverse student population. Principals at each campus reported having a good start with nothing out of the ordinary happening.
With the first week behind you, what is the current enrollment and how does that compare with last year? Do you expect additional changes?
Enrollment on Friday, Aug. 21, was 1,036. That number is up by 20 from the close of school in May. We’ve lost some students and we have gained some. There are always changes throughout the school year. Enrollment always fluctuates.
Are there any significant changes to the handbooks for any of the campuses?
Yes. Each year the Arkansas School Board Association updates district policies to comply with Arkansas and Federal laws. There are several changes to each school’s handbook. Parents and students should be familiar with the content of the student handbook. Questions should be referred to the principal at each school. High School students and their parents should pay attention to rules governing the use of cell phones, fighting, Internet and computer violations and “In School Suspension.”
Are there staff and faculty changes for the district this year?
New staff members for the district include Marybeth Cross, Special Education LEA Supervisor and Wanda Williams, CNA/Secretary-Special Education. At Prescott Elementary, new staff members are Satarra Williams, secretary; Leigha Wesley, art teacher; Lori Poole, teacher; Haley Miller, paraprofessional; Traci Rucker, paraprofessional; Barbara Bechtold, paraprofessional; and Amber Hignight, paraprofessional. New staff members at McRae Middle School are Frank Henson, counselor; Amber Chastain, art teacher; Stephanie Cross, teacher; Brandi Karlovec, music paraprofessional. New staff members at Prescott High School are Susan Snider, teacher; Courtney Denton, teacher; Mark Hall, basketball coach/teacher; Monte Whitley, teacher; Ashley Higginbotham, distance learning facilitator; Tony Spearman, paraprofessional; and Brandi Karlovec, music paraprofessional. New members of the child nutrition and food services are Sandy Rusher and William Warlow.
What’s your message to students about the coming year?
It is great to have everyone at school. Prescott School District is a wonderful place for children. The administration and staff have worked diligently to prepare for a year of rigorous teaching and learning. All students are expected to cooperate with the staff by giving their best every day in everything they do. Our primary focus is teaching and learning in a safe environment.
What’s your prediction for the Curley Wolves?
A winning team that displays ideal sportsmanship at all activities.
