🐾 Welcome to the Airedale Family!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Shane Ayotte, who will be joining the team at Alma High School.
About Shane: Shane recently taught in Central Arkansas and is excited to return to the River Valley to continue his teaching career. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Central Arkansas and is grateful for the opportunity to join the Alma community. Shane looks forward to building relationships with students and making a positive impact in the classroom. He is excited to become an Airedale and be part of such a great school community.
We’re excited to have Shane join our team and look forward to the positive impact he will make with our students and community!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Shane Ayotte, who will be joining the team at Alma High School.
About Shane: Shane recently taught in Central Arkansas and is excited to return to the River Valley to continue his teaching career. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Central Arkansas and is grateful for the opportunity to join the Alma community. Shane looks forward to building relationships with students and making a positive impact in the classroom. He is excited to become an Airedale and be part of such a great school community.
We’re excited to have Shane join our team and look forward to the positive impact he will make with our students and community!
📚🚌 Bookmobile Update for Tomorrow (6/3/26)
Our Bookmobile experienced some mechanical issues yesterday, and while we wait on a part to get our bus back on the road, we'll be using a substitute bus tomorrow.
Don't worry - we'll still be delivering food and bringing along a small selection of books geared toward our younger readers for checkout!
Keep an eye out for the small yellow bus on Wednesday, June 3. You'll find the same friendly faces, smiles, and services you know and love. Thank you for your patience and support as we get the Bookmobile rolling again soon! ❤️📖
Our Bookmobile experienced some mechanical issues yesterday, and while we wait on a part to get our bus back on the road, we'll be using a substitute bus tomorrow.
Don't worry - we'll still be delivering food and bringing along a small selection of books geared toward our younger readers for checkout!
Keep an eye out for the small yellow bus on Wednesday, June 3. You'll find the same friendly faces, smiles, and services you know and love. Thank you for your patience and support as we get the Bookmobile rolling again soon! ❤️📖
🐾 Welcome to the Airedale Family!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Cara Willmon, who will serve as an Agriculture Teacher at Alma High School.
About Cara: Cara is excited to begin her career as an Agriculture Teacher at Alma School District. A proud Alma High School graduate, she is thankful for the opportunity to return to the program that helped shape her passion for agriculture and education. Cara attended Arkansas Tech University, where she studied agricultural education and gained valuable classroom experience through student teaching and internships. She looks forward to building relationships with students and helping them grow through hands-on learning, leadership, and FFA involvement.
We’re excited to have Cara join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will make with our students and community!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Cara Willmon, who will serve as an Agriculture Teacher at Alma High School.
About Cara: Cara is excited to begin her career as an Agriculture Teacher at Alma School District. A proud Alma High School graduate, she is thankful for the opportunity to return to the program that helped shape her passion for agriculture and education. Cara attended Arkansas Tech University, where she studied agricultural education and gained valuable classroom experience through student teaching and internships. She looks forward to building relationships with students and helping them grow through hands-on learning, leadership, and FFA involvement.
We’re excited to have Cara join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will make with our students and community!
🎙️ Mr. Bridges is back with a brand-new podcast episode!
In this episode, Mr. B. sits down with Kevin Hesslen, the new Superintendent of Alma School District. Mr. Hesslen shares his journey in education, discusses the many roles he's held throughout his career, talks about his family, and outlines his vision for the future of Alma Schools.
Along the way, the two discover they have more in common than they realized, including some shared connections from the past!
We invite you to get to know the leader who will help guide Alma Schools into the future.
🎧 Listen here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/s4-e8-what-s-the-deal-with-the-new-superintendent--72278593
In this episode, Mr. B. sits down with Kevin Hesslen, the new Superintendent of Alma School District. Mr. Hesslen shares his journey in education, discusses the many roles he's held throughout his career, talks about his family, and outlines his vision for the future of Alma Schools.
Along the way, the two discover they have more in common than they realized, including some shared connections from the past!
We invite you to get to know the leader who will help guide Alma Schools into the future.
🎧 Listen here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/s4-e8-what-s-the-deal-with-the-new-superintendent--72278593
Today is the final day to submit your School Choice Application for the 2026-2027 school year at Alma School District!
Join a district committed to academic excellence, student success, and outstanding opportunities in academics, athletics, arts, and extracurricular activities.
✅ Applications must be submitted by the end of the day today.
✅ Don't miss your opportunity to become part of the Airedale family!
LINK: https://www.almasd.net/page/school-choice
Questions? Contact the Alma School District Administration Office for assistance.
Join a district committed to academic excellence, student success, and outstanding opportunities in academics, athletics, arts, and extracurricular activities.
✅ Applications must be submitted by the end of the day today.
✅ Don't miss your opportunity to become part of the Airedale family!
LINK: https://www.almasd.net/page/school-choice
Questions? Contact the Alma School District Administration Office for assistance.
🐾 New Role Announcement
Alma School District is proud to recognize members of our Airedale family who are stepping into new roles for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in congratulating Abby Boster, who will be serving as a Counselor at Alma High School.
About Abby: Abby will begin her 10th year in education, with nearly her entire career dedicated to serving Alma School District students and families. Throughout her time at Alma, she has served in a variety of roles, including middle school math teacher, cheer coach, and elementary teacher. These experiences have strengthened her passion for supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Abby is committed to helping students feel seen, heard, and encouraged as they prepare for bright futures.
We’re excited for Abby as she begins this new role at Alma High School and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make on our students and school community!
Alma School District is proud to recognize members of our Airedale family who are stepping into new roles for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in congratulating Abby Boster, who will be serving as a Counselor at Alma High School.
About Abby: Abby will begin her 10th year in education, with nearly her entire career dedicated to serving Alma School District students and families. Throughout her time at Alma, she has served in a variety of roles, including middle school math teacher, cheer coach, and elementary teacher. These experiences have strengthened her passion for supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Abby is committed to helping students feel seen, heard, and encouraged as they prepare for bright futures.
We’re excited for Abby as she begins this new role at Alma High School and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make on our students and school community!
📚🚍 IT'S DAY ONE OF THE BOOKMOBILE 🚍📚
The wait is over - we're hitting the road and bringing books, smiles, and summer reading fun to you!
We can't wait to see all of our readers today! Be sure to check out the schedule below to find your stop time and get ready to hop aboard.
Find your stop time below!
👇👇👇
The wait is over - we're hitting the road and bringing books, smiles, and summer reading fun to you!
We can't wait to see all of our readers today! Be sure to check out the schedule below to find your stop time and get ready to hop aboard.
Find your stop time below!
👇👇👇
🐾 Welcome to the Airedale Family!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Sarah Walker, who will serve as an Assistant Principal at Alma High School.
About Sarah: Sarah brings 16 years of experience in education and has served in a variety of leadership and instructional roles, including agriculture instructor, instructional facilitator, and, most recently, Principal at Mountainburg Middle School. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to student success, building strong relationships, and supporting teachers. Sarah is passionate about fostering a positive school culture, promoting academic excellence, and helping students reach their full potential. She looks forward to becoming an active part of the Alma High School community and connecting with students, staff, and families. Outside of school, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband, Andrew, and their children, Allie and Cooper. As a family, they stay busy with livestock projects and cheering on their children at sporting events.
We’re excited to have Sarah join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will make with our students, staff, and community!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Sarah Walker, who will serve as an Assistant Principal at Alma High School.
About Sarah: Sarah brings 16 years of experience in education and has served in a variety of leadership and instructional roles, including agriculture instructor, instructional facilitator, and, most recently, Principal at Mountainburg Middle School. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to student success, building strong relationships, and supporting teachers. Sarah is passionate about fostering a positive school culture, promoting academic excellence, and helping students reach their full potential. She looks forward to becoming an active part of the Alma High School community and connecting with students, staff, and families. Outside of school, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband, Andrew, and their children, Allie and Cooper. As a family, they stay busy with livestock projects and cheering on their children at sporting events.
We’re excited to have Sarah join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will make with our students, staff, and community!
🐾 New Role Announcement
Alma School District is proud to recognize members of our Airedale family who are stepping into new roles for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in congratulating Brandy Broyles, who will be joining the team at Alma High School as the new Literacy Teacher.
About Brandy: Brandy brings 17 years of teaching experience and has spent the last 9 years serving students at Alma Intermediate School. Alma holds a special place in her heart, as the community has been home to her family for many years. Her two sons are proud Alma graduates, her youngest daughter currently attends Alma Primary School, and her family has also enjoyed hosting a daughter from Germany. Brandy is excited to bring her passion for reading and writing to the high school level while helping students discover their voices and prepare for the future.
We’re excited for Brandy as she begins this new chapter at Alma High School and look forward to the continued impact she will make with our students and community!
🐾 Welcome to the Airedale Family!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Drake Snyder, who will serve as an Assistant Football Coach and Assistant Softball Coach at Alma High School. He will also be teaching at Alma Middle School.
About Coach Snyder: Coach Snyder brings 11 years of coaching experience and is passionate about building strong relationships with students while helping them succeed in the classroom, in competition, and in life. He and his wife, Amy, have three children who attend Alma School District. Coach Snyder is excited to join the Alma team and become part of the Airedale community.
We’re excited to have Coach Snyder join our team and look forward to the positive impact he will make with our students and athletic programs!
Alma School District is excited to continue introducing new members of our Airedale family for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in welcoming Drake Snyder, who will serve as an Assistant Football Coach and Assistant Softball Coach at Alma High School. He will also be teaching at Alma Middle School.
About Coach Snyder: Coach Snyder brings 11 years of coaching experience and is passionate about building strong relationships with students while helping them succeed in the classroom, in competition, and in life. He and his wife, Amy, have three children who attend Alma School District. Coach Snyder is excited to join the Alma team and become part of the Airedale community.
We’re excited to have Coach Snyder join our team and look forward to the positive impact he will make with our students and athletic programs!
Summer Hours for all Alma School District campuses and departments are now in effect:
Monday–Thursday
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
(45-minute lunch)
Fridays
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Regular schedules will resume Monday, July 27.
Have a great summer, Airedales!
Monday–Thursday
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
(45-minute lunch)
Fridays
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Regular schedules will resume Monday, July 27.
Have a great summer, Airedales!
School is out. Summer is in. 😎
Thank you, families, students, and staff, for an incredible year filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable memories. Wishing everyone a summer full of sunshine, laughter, adventure, and well-deserved relaxation.
See you next school year!
Thank you, families, students, and staff, for an incredible year filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable memories. Wishing everyone a summer full of sunshine, laughter, adventure, and well-deserved relaxation.
See you next school year!
This week, our Alma boys' basketball team made a special return visit to Alma Primary School!
During the fall semester, the team spent time reading to our kindergartners with one goal in mind: to come back in the spring and have the students read to them. This week, they kept that promise!
Our athletes sat patiently and listened intently as the students proudly took turns reading aloud. It was a sweet full-circle moment that highlighted the importance of mentorship, encouragement, and a love for reading.
We are so proud of these student-athletes for being outstanding role models both on and off the court! ❤️🏀📚
During the fall semester, the team spent time reading to our kindergartners with one goal in mind: to come back in the spring and have the students read to them. This week, they kept that promise!
Our athletes sat patiently and listened intently as the students proudly took turns reading aloud. It was a sweet full-circle moment that highlighted the importance of mentorship, encouragement, and a love for reading.
We are so proud of these student-athletes for being outstanding role models both on and off the court! ❤️🏀📚
🐾 New Role Announcement
Alma School District is proud to recognize members of our Airedale family who are stepping into new leadership roles for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in congratulating Kent Myers, who will serve as the Head Band Director at Alma High School.
About Mr. Myers: Mr. Myers previously served as Associate Director of Bands for Alma Public Schools and will be entering his 17th year at Alma and his 20th year in education. Throughout his time at Alma, he has worked with students at both the middle school and high school levels, directing the basketball pep band, overseeing the Pride of Alma Marching Band, conducting the Alma High School Concert Band, and teaching music theory. Prior to joining Alma in 2010, he served as Director of the Music Department for the South Ripley Community School Corporation in Versailles, Indiana. Mr. Myers earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Kentucky and his Master of Music degree in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Arkansas, where he also served as a graduate teaching assistant with the university band program. Originally from Milan, Indiana, Mr. Myers is passionate about music education, student leadership development, and continuing the strong tradition of the Alma band program.
We’re proud to have Mr. Myers continue serving Alma School District in this new role and look forward to the continued impact he will make with our students and band program!
Alma School District is proud to recognize members of our Airedale family who are stepping into new leadership roles for the upcoming school year.
Please join us in congratulating Kent Myers, who will serve as the Head Band Director at Alma High School.
About Mr. Myers: Mr. Myers previously served as Associate Director of Bands for Alma Public Schools and will be entering his 17th year at Alma and his 20th year in education. Throughout his time at Alma, he has worked with students at both the middle school and high school levels, directing the basketball pep band, overseeing the Pride of Alma Marching Band, conducting the Alma High School Concert Band, and teaching music theory. Prior to joining Alma in 2010, he served as Director of the Music Department for the South Ripley Community School Corporation in Versailles, Indiana. Mr. Myers earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Kentucky and his Master of Music degree in Instrumental Conducting from the University of Arkansas, where he also served as a graduate teaching assistant with the university band program. Originally from Milan, Indiana, Mr. Myers is passionate about music education, student leadership development, and continuing the strong tradition of the Alma band program.
We’re proud to have Mr. Myers continue serving Alma School District in this new role and look forward to the continued impact he will make with our students and band program!
Alma High School student Enrique Garcia represented AHS at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona, May 12–16.
Enrique had the opportunity to showcase his hard work and passion for science alongside students from around the world. We are proud of the dedication and effort he put into reaching this level of competition.
Thank you to Mrs. Parker for supporting and encouraging him throughout the journey!
Enrique had the opportunity to showcase his hard work and passion for science alongside students from around the world. We are proud of the dedication and effort he put into reaching this level of competition.
Thank you to Mrs. Parker for supporting and encouraging him throughout the journey!
🎨 Art Department Annual Digital Art Show 🎨
Please enjoy the 2025–2026 Alma School District Art Department Annual Digital Art Show!
This showcase features artwork created by talented student artists in grades 6–12. Feel free to pause the video to read artists’ statements and take a closer look at each piece.
We are so proud of our student artists and the hard work, creativity, and dedication they have shown throughout the year. We hope you enjoy the show!
LINK: https://youtu.be/J_691JZZYD8?si=Y2vB7tMpLBnnL55F
Please enjoy the 2025–2026 Alma School District Art Department Annual Digital Art Show!
This showcase features artwork created by talented student artists in grades 6–12. Feel free to pause the video to read artists’ statements and take a closer look at each piece.
We are so proud of our student artists and the hard work, creativity, and dedication they have shown throughout the year. We hope you enjoy the show!
LINK: https://youtu.be/J_691JZZYD8?si=Y2vB7tMpLBnnL55F
Last Thursday’s school board meeting included several special recognitions honoring staff members and coaches from across the district for their leadership, service, and dedication to Alma Schools.
Cortney Parker and Sari Copeland of Alma Intermediate School were recognized for their professionalism, kindness, and dedication to students, staff, and families. They help create a welcoming environment each day and play a vital role in the success of the school. Their teamwork and commitment to excellence continue to make a positive impact on the Alma Intermediate community.
Coach Darin Stahler was recognized for being named Assistant Coach of the Year by the Arkansas Basketball Coaches Association, and Coach Cody Vaught was honored for being selected to coach the AHSCA All-Star Team.
The board also recognized this year’s Classified Employee of the Year honorees:
• Tracy Dean - Alma Primary School
• Brittney Bonewell - Alma Intermediate School
• Jill Boyd - Alma Middle School
• Whitney Skadden - Alma High School
• Jenna Ogilvie - District Support Employee of the Year
In addition, Dr. Wood recognized the district’s Curriculum Specialist Team for their continued support of students and staff across Alma Schools: Brandi Brogan, Erin Reeves, Chelsie Sturdivant, Michael Bridges, Amy Brewer, and Jamie Balkman.
Congratulations to all who were recognized for their hard work and commitment to Alma Schools.
Cortney Parker and Sari Copeland of Alma Intermediate School were recognized for their professionalism, kindness, and dedication to students, staff, and families. They help create a welcoming environment each day and play a vital role in the success of the school. Their teamwork and commitment to excellence continue to make a positive impact on the Alma Intermediate community.
Coach Darin Stahler was recognized for being named Assistant Coach of the Year by the Arkansas Basketball Coaches Association, and Coach Cody Vaught was honored for being selected to coach the AHSCA All-Star Team.
The board also recognized this year’s Classified Employee of the Year honorees:
• Tracy Dean - Alma Primary School
• Brittney Bonewell - Alma Intermediate School
• Jill Boyd - Alma Middle School
• Whitney Skadden - Alma High School
• Jenna Ogilvie - District Support Employee of the Year
In addition, Dr. Wood recognized the district’s Curriculum Specialist Team for their continued support of students and staff across Alma Schools: Brandi Brogan, Erin Reeves, Chelsie Sturdivant, Michael Bridges, Amy Brewer, and Jamie Balkman.
Congratulations to all who were recognized for their hard work and commitment to Alma Schools.
The Alma Airedale Football Booster Club invites the community to Spring Showcase Game Day this Wednesday, May 20, at 6 PM at the football stadium!
Come support the team, enjoy a great night of football, and stay after the game for a community tailgate in front of the stadium.
🍔 Free food (first come, first serve)
🎯 Games & fun for the whole family
💚 A great way to celebrate Airedale pride together!
The Booster Club looks forward to seeing everyone there for an exciting night under the lights!
Come support the team, enjoy a great night of football, and stay after the game for a community tailgate in front of the stadium.
🍔 Free food (first come, first serve)
🎯 Games & fun for the whole family
💚 A great way to celebrate Airedale pride together!
The Booster Club looks forward to seeing everyone there for an exciting night under the lights!
Alma High School Student Council held its induction ceremony Tuesday morning with Mrs. Hubbs and Mrs. Medina hosting the event. The 2025–2026 council members were recognized, and students in grades 10–12 were inducted for the 2026–2027 school year. Incoming freshmen will be inducted later this summer.
Congratulations to all of our Student Council officers, representatives, and participants! We are proud of these students for stepping into leadership roles and serving their school and community.
Congratulations to all of our Student Council officers, representatives, and participants! We are proud of these students for stepping into leadership roles and serving their school and community.
☀️ Summer 2026 EBT Info for Alma Families ☀️
Eligible Alma students can receive a one-time $120 Summer EBT grocery benefit per child this summer!
Here’s what families need to know:
🍎 Summer EBT helps families buy groceries while school is out
🍎 Many students will automatically qualify, including children ages 5–17 receiving SNAP, TEA, Medicaid Free, or Medicaid Reduced during the current school year
🍎 Other families may need to apply online
✅ Check eligibility here: ar.gov/SummerEBT
✅ Apply online at: access.arkansas.gov
(Click “Apply for New Benefits” and log in or create an account.)
📄 Families should also make sure their Free & Reduced Meals Application is completed with Alma School District.
Last year, Summer EBT helped more than 336,000 Arkansas children access healthy food during the summer months.
🔍 Learn more: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/county-operations/summer-ebt/
Eligible Alma students can receive a one-time $120 Summer EBT grocery benefit per child this summer!
Here’s what families need to know:
🍎 Summer EBT helps families buy groceries while school is out
🍎 Many students will automatically qualify, including children ages 5–17 receiving SNAP, TEA, Medicaid Free, or Medicaid Reduced during the current school year
🍎 Other families may need to apply online
✅ Check eligibility here: ar.gov/SummerEBT
✅ Apply online at: access.arkansas.gov
(Click “Apply for New Benefits” and log in or create an account.)
📄 Families should also make sure their Free & Reduced Meals Application is completed with Alma School District.
Last year, Summer EBT helped more than 336,000 Arkansas children access healthy food during the summer months.
🔍 Learn more: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/county-operations/summer-ebt/
