🌟🎓 Airedale Alumni Spotlight 🎓🌟
Earlier this year, we proudly shared that Xavier Herzig had been named a semifinalist in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program — one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. Now, we’re thrilled to announce that Xavier has officially been named a U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of only 161 students nationwide selected by the U.S. Department of Education for this prestigious recognition.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program honors outstanding high school seniors for their academic excellence, artistic achievement, leadership, service, and citizenship. Out of more than 3.9 million graduates this year, just 6,400 students qualified for consideration, with final selections based on academic records, essays, community service, and leadership.
As part of the program’s tradition, each scholar recognizes their most influential teacher — and Xavier selected Ms. Jeana Parker, acknowledging her remarkable impact on his education and success.
The Alma School District congratulates Xavier Herzig and Ms. Parker on this incredible national honor!
Earlier this year, we proudly shared that Xavier Herzig had been named a semifinalist in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program — one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. Now, we’re thrilled to announce that Xavier has officially been named a U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of only 161 students nationwide selected by the U.S. Department of Education for this prestigious recognition.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program honors outstanding high school seniors for their academic excellence, artistic achievement, leadership, service, and citizenship. Out of more than 3.9 million graduates this year, just 6,400 students qualified for consideration, with final selections based on academic records, essays, community service, and leadership.
As part of the program’s tradition, each scholar recognizes their most influential teacher — and Xavier selected Ms. Jeana Parker, acknowledging her remarkable impact on his education and success.
The Alma School District congratulates Xavier Herzig and Ms. Parker on this incredible national honor!
We might be a couple of months into the school year, but it’s not too late to apply for Free & Reduced Meals! Every family is encouraged to submit an application — you could still qualify for valuable benefits this year.
👉 Apply today: https://www.almasd.net/o/asd/page/free-and-reduced-information
👉 Apply today: https://www.almasd.net/o/asd/page/free-and-reduced-information
Last Friday, we had the privilege of celebrating our incredible seniors! Senior Night is a special tradition — a time to honor the dedication, hard work, and commitment these students have shown in their sports and activities over the years. Thank you to everyone who came out to support them and make the night so memorable! Check out our Facebook page for more photos.
Alma High School students recently visited ATU – Ozark for Tech Out Day! They explored program booths, learned about hands-on career pathways, and toured the campus to see those programs in action. We love seeing our students explore opportunities for their future!
This week, Dr. Wood and district principals completed learning walks at Alma Primary School. These visits provided an opportunity to apply the skills learned in recent training with NIET and to develop a common language as an instructional leadership team.
During the learning walks, principals focused on what students were doing and saying in the classroom. Observations included how students engaged with lessons, collaborated with peers, and demonstrated understanding of key concepts. The goal was not to evaluate teachers, but to reflect on student learning and the instructional practices that support success across the district.
Dr. Wood noted that the visits offer valuable insight into how district initiatives are being implemented and how leaders can better support teachers. “It’s powerful to see the great things happening in our classrooms every day,” Dr. Wood said. “These walks give us the chance to celebrate what’s working and identify areas where we can continue to grow together.”
The district plans to continue these learning walks throughout the year to strengthen collaboration, consistency, and shared leadership across all schools.
During the learning walks, principals focused on what students were doing and saying in the classroom. Observations included how students engaged with lessons, collaborated with peers, and demonstrated understanding of key concepts. The goal was not to evaluate teachers, but to reflect on student learning and the instructional practices that support success across the district.
Dr. Wood noted that the visits offer valuable insight into how district initiatives are being implemented and how leaders can better support teachers. “It’s powerful to see the great things happening in our classrooms every day,” Dr. Wood said. “These walks give us the chance to celebrate what’s working and identify areas where we can continue to grow together.”
The district plans to continue these learning walks throughout the year to strengthen collaboration, consistency, and shared leadership across all schools.
Having trouble logging in to Rooms?
Good news — the issue has been resolved!
The recent login problem affecting iPhone (iOS) users has been fixed, and you should now be able to access the app without any issues.
If you’re still having trouble:
• Close and reopen the app to reset your session
• If that doesn’t work, delete and reinstall the app to clear the login cache
Thank you for your patience while this was being worked out!
Good news — the issue has been resolved!
The recent login problem affecting iPhone (iOS) users has been fixed, and you should now be able to access the app without any issues.
If you’re still having trouble:
• Close and reopen the app to reset your session
• If that doesn’t work, delete and reinstall the app to clear the login cache
Thank you for your patience while this was being worked out!
Band night highlights! We love shining a spotlight on our talented musicians from across the district! A big thank you to the Alma Middle School and Alma High School bands for always bringing the energy and keeping us moving to the beat! 🎶🥁🎺
Alma TSA students recently attended the Arkansas TSA Chapter Officer Leadership Academy (COLA), where they took part in interactive leadership training and team-building activities. Throughout the event, students strengthened their communication, organization, and chapter management skills — preparing them to lead and grow their local TSA chapters this year.
Front row: Arkansas TSA State Officers – Noel Parker (Sergeant at Arms), Brenna Morris (President), and Kylee Wallis (Secretary)
Back row: Dylin Trantham, Isaac Wald, Silas Dumond, Gabriel Johnson, Sophia Kimes, Ruby Inman, Chloe Haught, Jackson Burdick, Brody Baldwin, and Malachi Houck
Front row: Arkansas TSA State Officers – Noel Parker (Sergeant at Arms), Brenna Morris (President), and Kylee Wallis (Secretary)
Back row: Dylin Trantham, Isaac Wald, Silas Dumond, Gabriel Johnson, Sophia Kimes, Ruby Inman, Chloe Haught, Jackson Burdick, Brody Baldwin, and Malachi Houck
📣 Parents & Guardians: It’s Parent-Teacher Conference Week!
Here’s what you need to know:
- Thursday, October 16: Teacher Work Day + Afternoon Parent-Teacher Conferences — No school for students.
- Friday, October 17: Parent-Teacher Conferences (all day) — No school for students.
Pre-K families: Pre-K students will attend school as normal both days.
You can view both the Pre-K and District Calendars at the link below.
LINK: https://www.almasd.net/documents/school-calendars/787919
Here’s what you need to know:
- Thursday, October 16: Teacher Work Day + Afternoon Parent-Teacher Conferences — No school for students.
- Friday, October 17: Parent-Teacher Conferences (all day) — No school for students.
Pre-K families: Pre-K students will attend school as normal both days.
You can view both the Pre-K and District Calendars at the link below.
LINK: https://www.almasd.net/documents/school-calendars/787919
On October 2, district leaders, principals, and curriculum specialists participated in NIET Learning Walk Training, a professional development opportunity through the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching.
This training helps school leaders strengthen teaching and learning by conducting short, non-evaluative classroom visits focused on instructional growth and student engagement.
The following day, October 3, NIET staff developers joined Alma school leaders on campuses across the district to put their new skills into action — observing, collaborating, and supporting teachers in their continued pursuit of excellence.
A huge thank-you to NIET and our dedicated staff for their hard work, collaboration, and commitment to continuous improvement across all Alma schools!
This training helps school leaders strengthen teaching and learning by conducting short, non-evaluative classroom visits focused on instructional growth and student engagement.
The following day, October 3, NIET staff developers joined Alma school leaders on campuses across the district to put their new skills into action — observing, collaborating, and supporting teachers in their continued pursuit of excellence.
A huge thank-you to NIET and our dedicated staff for their hard work, collaboration, and commitment to continuous improvement across all Alma schools!
October Board Meeting Recognitions
We’re celebrating our incredible staff and leaders this month!
Alma Primary School – Recognized for fostering a strong foundation for lifelong learning through dedication and care.
⭐Honorees: Jessica Gillingham, Erin Sanders, Melissa Ellifrits, Amanda Nelson, Jennifer Schneider, Ashley White
Alma Intermediate School – Recognized for launching the 5th Grade Ambassador Program, creating meaningful leadership opportunities for students.
⭐Honorees: Madison Yates, Shelbi Thomas, Allie Smith
Alma Middle School – Recognized for providing nutritious meals and a welcoming environment that supports student success.
⭐Honoree: Jill Boyd
Alma High School – Recognized for exceptional teaching and demonstration of Illustrative Mathematics. Her dedication, positive attitude, and impact have inspired fellow Alma High School math teachers.
⭐Honoree: Amanda Atwell
National Principal Month
This October, we celebrate the leadership, dedication, and care of our principals who make a difference in every school:
Brian Kirkendoll – Alma High School
JD Coursey – Alma Middle School
Jennifer Lyon – Alma Intermediate School
Shawn Bullard - Alma Primary School
Thank you to all of our staff and principals for the impact you make on our students every day!
We’re celebrating our incredible staff and leaders this month!
Alma Primary School – Recognized for fostering a strong foundation for lifelong learning through dedication and care.
⭐Honorees: Jessica Gillingham, Erin Sanders, Melissa Ellifrits, Amanda Nelson, Jennifer Schneider, Ashley White
Alma Intermediate School – Recognized for launching the 5th Grade Ambassador Program, creating meaningful leadership opportunities for students.
⭐Honorees: Madison Yates, Shelbi Thomas, Allie Smith
Alma Middle School – Recognized for providing nutritious meals and a welcoming environment that supports student success.
⭐Honoree: Jill Boyd
Alma High School – Recognized for exceptional teaching and demonstration of Illustrative Mathematics. Her dedication, positive attitude, and impact have inspired fellow Alma High School math teachers.
⭐Honoree: Amanda Atwell
National Principal Month
This October, we celebrate the leadership, dedication, and care of our principals who make a difference in every school:
Brian Kirkendoll – Alma High School
JD Coursey – Alma Middle School
Jennifer Lyon – Alma Intermediate School
Shawn Bullard - Alma Primary School
Thank you to all of our staff and principals for the impact you make on our students every day!
October is National Principals Month!
We’re so thankful for the leadership, dedication, and care our principals show each and every day.
Help us celebrate these incredible leaders:
🏫 Brian Kirkendoll – Alma High School
🏫 JD Coursey – Alma Middle School
🏫 Jennifer Lyon – Alma Intermediate School
🏫 Shawn Bullard – Alma Primary School
Let them know how much you appreciate them and recognize the positive impact they have on our schools the next time you see them!
We’re so thankful for the leadership, dedication, and care our principals show each and every day.
Help us celebrate these incredible leaders:
🏫 Brian Kirkendoll – Alma High School
🏫 JD Coursey – Alma Middle School
🏫 Jennifer Lyon – Alma Intermediate School
🏫 Shawn Bullard – Alma Primary School
Let them know how much you appreciate them and recognize the positive impact they have on our schools the next time you see them!
We are excited to announce that Alma High School has officially moved from a B to an A school in the Arkansas Department of Education’s accountability ratings!
This achievement reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and community in preparing every Airedale for success beyond high school. We are thrilled to see the hard work and commitment of our Airedales recognized in this way.
Together, we are proud to continue building a lasting tradition of excellence at Alma High School.
This achievement reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and community in preparing every Airedale for success beyond high school. We are thrilled to see the hard work and commitment of our Airedales recognized in this way.
Together, we are proud to continue building a lasting tradition of excellence at Alma High School.
Homecoming Week Highlights 🎉🏈💚
What a wonderful week of celebrating tradition, school spirit, and community! From start to finish, our Alma family - students, staff, alumni, parents, and friends - helped make Homecoming 2025 one to remember.
Thank you for being part of the fun and for showing your Airedale pride in so many ways!
What a wonderful week of celebrating tradition, school spirit, and community! From start to finish, our Alma family - students, staff, alumni, parents, and friends - helped make Homecoming 2025 one to remember.
Thank you for being part of the fun and for showing your Airedale pride in so many ways!
Homecoming has arrived, and we’re excited to celebrate this special tradition! A big thank-you to everyone who came out for last night’s parade. Tonight, the Airedales face the Harrison Goblins, with the coronation ceremony set for 6:30 p.m. on the field, just before kickoff. Come out and enjoy the spirit and excitement! We appreciate Heritage Portraits for beautifully capturing our homecoming court!
The homecoming fun isn’t slowing down!
Today’s the day for the homecoming parade! Queen Raleigh and her court will be leading the way, along with other amazing groups and organizations.
📍 Main Street
⏰ Tonight at 6:00 PM
Come out, cheer loud, and celebrate with us!
Today’s the day for the homecoming parade! Queen Raleigh and her court will be leading the way, along with other amazing groups and organizations.
📍 Main Street
⏰ Tonight at 6:00 PM
Come out, cheer loud, and celebrate with us!
Big Day for Alma High School! Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Ikenberry, Mrs. King, Hannah Hays from Mountainburg, and John Whitman & Jennifer Turner from the Co-Op were here today training on our brand-new Tenstar simulator – and we can’t wait for students to try it out! 🚜
Students will get to experience operating:
✅ Excavators
✅ Tractors
✅ Cranes
✅ Graders
✅ Dozers
✅ Ambulances
✅ Combine Harvesters
✅ Semi Trucks
✅ Forklifts
…and MORE — up to 22 different pieces of equipment!
Hands-on learning just got a whole lot more exciting!
Students will get to experience operating:
✅ Excavators
✅ Tractors
✅ Cranes
✅ Graders
✅ Dozers
✅ Ambulances
✅ Combine Harvesters
✅ Semi Trucks
✅ Forklifts
…and MORE — up to 22 different pieces of equipment!
Hands-on learning just got a whole lot more exciting!
This week, our Alma Primary School kindergarteners had some very special guest readers — the Airedale Varsity Basketball Team! Players traded their basketballs for books and spent time reading aloud to our youngest learners. The kids were thrilled to sit with their hometown athletes, and the players enjoyed connecting with the future Airedales. Moments like these are what make our Alma community so special — seeing our older students step up as role models and inspire the next generation of Airedales. Way to go, team!
Huge thanks to everyone who came out Friday night to cheer on the Airedales! Alma Cheer & Alma Dance brought the energy with an incredible Spirit Clinic! Always proud to be an Airedale!
Professional Learning in Action! Last week, Mrs. Hubbs and Mrs. Reeves attended a professional learning event in Little Rock for Instructional Leaders. They joined leaders from across Arkansas to explore strategies and practices designed to empower the teachers they lead this school year. Great work, Mrs. Hubbs and Mrs. Reeves — thanks for leading the way for our Airedale educators!
