April at Alma High School was filled with achievement, recognition, and Airedale pride as students and staff reached new heights across academics, athletics, fine arts, and leadership.
The month began with a spirited celebration hosted by TSA, including the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, and engaging student games. The school also honored its monthly Airedale MVPs, recognizing individuals who exemplify the values of integrity, kindness, and leadership:
Senior: Allee Little – Leads with integrity, compassion, and a drive to make a difference.
Junior: Allison Ames – Kindhearted and always ready to support those around her.
Sophomore: Jaeda Cahoon – Recognized for her hard work, attention to detail, and determination.
Freshman: Mallory Taylor – A standout example of leadership and generosity.
Faculty: Rachel Brown – A trusted, supportive educator who always puts students first.
Academic and Competitive Highlights
Xavier Herzig was named a U.S. Presidential Scholar Semi-Finalist, one of the nation’s highest academic honors.
At the State Science & Engineering Fair, students brought home top awards:
1st in Physics: Wyatt Brister, Weston King, Jackson Bauer
ISEF Qualifier: Bethany Bowlin (3rd place overall)
Sophia Floyd (3rd in Medicine & Health)
Alma High was also named a Top 5 “Best in State” School across all classifications.
The AHS Coding Team earned an impressive 7th place finish out of 146 teams statewide, and Airwaves Media received a Bronze Medal for Best Newscast at the Arkansas SkillsUSA Competition.
Over 25 students were recognized as AAA Active Scholars for excelling academically while participating in extracurricular activities.
Team Successes
Drill & Drone Teams dominated at the Baby Bombers Meet:
1st Overall Unarmed
1st in Regulation, UAX, and Drones
2nd in Color Guard and Physical Training
3rd in Brain Brawl
At the TSA State Convention, Alma had more participants and total placements than any other school, with multiple top-three finishes. Congratulations to Brenna Morris (State TSA President) and Kylee Wallis (Secretary) on their elections.
The FFA State Convention brought even more accolades:
Multiple students earned Arkansas FFA State Degrees.
State Champions in Agriscience and Swine Production.
Several students received scholarships.
Alma FFA was named a Gold Chapter and Models of Excellence Finalist, advancing to Nationals.
Students also earned Career Readiness Certifications in:
Customer Service & Sales
OSHA 10
Soft Skills Essentials
Microsoft Office (Accounting I)
ParaPro (Education Pathway)
Additionally, seven AHS students were accepted into the prestigious Arkansas Governor’s School: Kylee Wallis, Zachary Clarke, Cali Ferguson, Elizabeth Sosa, Leila Wood, Neveah Kangas. Alternates included Dakota Dick and John Butler — who also earned his Eagle Scout rank.
Fine Arts & Athletics
The Symphonic and Concert Bands continued their legacy of excellence, earning Superior ratings and a Sweepstakes Award for the 25th consecutive year. All choirs received Superior ratings, with the Chamber Choir crowned 5A Medium Chorus State Champions, and the Concert Choir earning a state plaque for the first time in seven years.
In athletics, John Crump pre-qualified for the state track meet in the 110m hurdles, while Special Olympics athletes brought home 1st in Traditional Basketball and 2nd in Unified Basketball.
From the classroom to the court, and every stage and lab in between, April showcased the best of Alma High School. Congratulations to all who represented the Airedales with heart, dedication, and pride!