🎙️ 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.
📚🚍 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!
👇👇👇
Current K–8 Alma students have access to their Zearn Math accounts all summer long!
Just 30 minutes a day can help students:
✅ Maintain math skills
✅ Build confidence
✅ Stay prepared for the next school year
Getting started is easy:
🔹 Visit zearn.org
🔹 Click "Login with Clever"
🔹 Sign in with your school Google account
Make math a part of your summer routine and keep learning all season long!
Questions? Contact Chelsie Sturdivant, Math Curriculum Specialist K–12, at clsturdivant@almasd.net.
Just 30 minutes a day can help students:
✅ Maintain math skills
✅ Build confidence
✅ Stay prepared for the next school year
Getting started is easy:
🔹 Visit zearn.org
🔹 Click "Login with Clever"
🔹 Sign in with your school Google account
Make math a part of your summer routine and keep learning all season long!
Questions? Contact Chelsie Sturdivant, Math Curriculum Specialist K–12, at clsturdivant@almasd.net.
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!
Color Run memories! Last week was another fun-filled Color-A-Thon hosted by the amazing PTO of Alma Intermediate School! 🌈
The AIS Color-A-Thon is the biggest and brightest fundraiser of the year, and our students had a blast running and walking the 1K while faculty and parent volunteers showered them with safe, non-toxic color powder - turning the bus lane into a rainbow runway of fun!
And the excitement didn’t stop there…
🎧 DJ Derrik spinning the ultimate race-day playlist
🫧 Foam cannons, bounce houses, a rock climber, and an inflatable obstacle course on the infield
🍬 Full concession stand featuring candy, snacks, drinks, and snow cones
Thank you to everyone who helped make this colorful day such a success!
The AIS Color-A-Thon is the biggest and brightest fundraiser of the year, and our students had a blast running and walking the 1K while faculty and parent volunteers showered them with safe, non-toxic color powder - turning the bus lane into a rainbow runway of fun!
And the excitement didn’t stop there…
🎧 DJ Derrik spinning the ultimate race-day playlist
🫧 Foam cannons, bounce houses, a rock climber, and an inflatable obstacle course on the infield
🍬 Full concession stand featuring candy, snacks, drinks, and snow cones
Thank you to everyone who helped make this colorful day such a success!
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!
☀️ 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/
Today, we celebrate the caring hearts behind every healthy school day. Thank you to our incredible Alma School District nurses for the compassion, comfort, and care you provide to students and staff every single day. Happy National School Nurse Day! 💚🩺
The heart of our schools beats because of you. Thank you for everything you do - Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! ❤️
May has arrived, and the final stretch is underway! As of today, there are just a few weeks left until Alma School District’s last day of school on May 21. Let’s make the most of these final days - finishing strong and celebrating a year full of learning and growth!
🐾 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 Makayla Mason, who will serve as a 3rd-grade teacher at Alma Intermediate School.
About Makayla: Makayla is passionate about teaching and enjoys helping her students grow each day. She earned her Master’s Degree in Education from Southern Arkansas University. Makayla was recently married in October, and she and her husband have a chocolate Goldendoodle named Pip.
We’re excited to have Makayla 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 Makayla Mason, who will serve as a 3rd-grade teacher at Alma Intermediate School.
About Makayla: Makayla is passionate about teaching and enjoys helping her students grow each day. She earned her Master’s Degree in Education from Southern Arkansas University. Makayla was recently married in October, and she and her husband have a chocolate Goldendoodle named Pip.
We’re excited to have Makayla join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will make with our students and community!
Happy National Principals’ Day! 🎉
Today, we celebrate the incredible leaders who guide our schools with dedication, compassion, and vision. Thank you for inspiring students, supporting teachers, and making a difference every single day.
Drop a comment below to share your appreciation and thank a principal who’s made a difference!
Today, we celebrate the incredible leaders who guide our schools with dedication, compassion, and vision. Thank you for inspiring students, supporting teachers, and making a difference every single day.
Drop a comment below to share your appreciation and thank a principal who’s made a difference!
🎭 Summer Theatre Camp Registration is OPEN 🎭
Calling all Alma students! Join us June 1–6 at the Skokos Performing Arts Center-Alma for a fun-filled week of creativity, teamwork, and performance. Open to current K–12 students, this camp is limited to just 60 participants - so don’t wait to sign up!
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeIKMpxpHOYaTfwGvV51A7JJlbG3DnPzB9CrxSbJXO3_g1WjA/viewform
This year’s production: Olympus: The Greek Rock Musical
Get ready for a high-energy, laugh-out-loud show where Greek gods compete for greatness - packed with humor, catchy songs, and unexpected adventures!
Performance: June 6 at 3:00 PM (family & friends invited!)
Camp Schedule:
• K–4th Grade: 9:00–11:30 AM daily (full day June 6)
• 5th–12th Grade: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM daily (through performance on June 6)
Cost:
• $30 - one student
• $50 - two siblings
• $70 - three or more siblings
Build confidence, spark creativity, and have a blast on stage this summer!
Register soon - spots will fill quickly!
Calling all Alma students! Join us June 1–6 at the Skokos Performing Arts Center-Alma for a fun-filled week of creativity, teamwork, and performance. Open to current K–12 students, this camp is limited to just 60 participants - so don’t wait to sign up!
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeIKMpxpHOYaTfwGvV51A7JJlbG3DnPzB9CrxSbJXO3_g1WjA/viewform
This year’s production: Olympus: The Greek Rock Musical
Get ready for a high-energy, laugh-out-loud show where Greek gods compete for greatness - packed with humor, catchy songs, and unexpected adventures!
Performance: June 6 at 3:00 PM (family & friends invited!)
Camp Schedule:
• K–4th Grade: 9:00–11:30 AM daily (full day June 6)
• 5th–12th Grade: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM daily (through performance on June 6)
Cost:
• $30 - one student
• $50 - two siblings
• $70 - three or more siblings
Build confidence, spark creativity, and have a blast on stage this summer!
Register soon - spots will fill quickly!
Behind every safe arrival is a driver who cares - thank you to the drivers who keep Alma School District moving safely every day! 🚌💛
🐾 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 Addison Ray, who will serve as an ELA Teacher at Alma Intermediate School.
About Addison: Addison is graduating this May with a degree in Elementary Education. She currently serves as the Behavioral Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Club of Van Buren, where she has gained valuable experience working with students. Addison is excited to bring her passion for teaching and her positive energy to the 5th-grade ELA team.
We’re excited to have Addison 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 Addison Ray, who will serve as an ELA Teacher at Alma Intermediate School.
About Addison: Addison is graduating this May with a degree in Elementary Education. She currently serves as the Behavioral Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Club of Van Buren, where she has gained valuable experience working with students. Addison is excited to bring her passion for teaching and her positive energy to the 5th-grade ELA team.
We’re excited to have Addison join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will make with our students and community!
⛳️ Join us for the 2026 Citizens Bank Airedale Golf Classic!
We’re excited to announce that this year’s tournament will take place on Saturday, June 6th, at River Valley Golf Course. All proceeds benefit the Mikell McSpadden & Frank Vines Scholarship Funds, helping support students in our community.
This marks our 19th year, making it one of the longest-running scholarship fundraisers in Alma! Over the past 18 years, we’ve awarded more than $40,000 to over 40 students - and we’re just getting started.
🏌️ Love golf? Register a team and join the fun!
🤝 Not a golfer? Consider becoming a hole sponsor and still make a meaningful impact.
Our goal is simple: honor Mikell and Coach Vines while continuing to grow these scholarships for future students.
📄 Sponsor Form: https://aptg.co/T8kDjC
📄 Registration Form: https://aptg.co/7t6TqP
Let’s make this year’s tournament the best one yet!
We’re excited to announce that this year’s tournament will take place on Saturday, June 6th, at River Valley Golf Course. All proceeds benefit the Mikell McSpadden & Frank Vines Scholarship Funds, helping support students in our community.
This marks our 19th year, making it one of the longest-running scholarship fundraisers in Alma! Over the past 18 years, we’ve awarded more than $40,000 to over 40 students - and we’re just getting started.
🏌️ Love golf? Register a team and join the fun!
🤝 Not a golfer? Consider becoming a hole sponsor and still make a meaningful impact.
Our goal is simple: honor Mikell and Coach Vines while continuing to grow these scholarships for future students.
📄 Sponsor Form: https://aptg.co/T8kDjC
📄 Registration Form: https://aptg.co/7t6TqP
Let’s make this year’s tournament the best one yet!
Alma School District is proud to be a Purple Star District, recognizing our commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families.
April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of these amazing students.
At Alma Intermediate School, students and staff have been celebrating in meaningful ways:
💜 Wearing purple on Fridays to show support for military kids
⭐ Sending letters home to learn about families’ military journeys
🗺️ Creating a special display - thanks to Kristi Weir, Jennifer Anderson, and Jennifer Hardin - mapping out where our military families have been stationed around the world
📸 Capturing a group photo of our incredible military-connected students and discussing the importance of their parents’ service to our country
We are proud of our military families and grateful for their service and sacrifice. Join us in celebrating and supporting our military children this month!
April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of these amazing students.
At Alma Intermediate School, students and staff have been celebrating in meaningful ways:
💜 Wearing purple on Fridays to show support for military kids
⭐ Sending letters home to learn about families’ military journeys
🗺️ Creating a special display - thanks to Kristi Weir, Jennifer Anderson, and Jennifer Hardin - mapping out where our military families have been stationed around the world
📸 Capturing a group photo of our incredible military-connected students and discussing the importance of their parents’ service to our country
We are proud of our military families and grateful for their service and sacrifice. Join us in celebrating and supporting our military children this month!
