Alma School District Newsletter

Alma School District is happy to introduce Mrs. Jennifer Lyon as the new principal of Alma Intermediate School. Mrs. Lyon joins Alma Schools from Fort Smith, where she presently holds the position of Assistant Principal at Fairview Elementary. With experience as a kindergarten teacher, first-grade teacher, and library media specialist, she has served in multiple roles within schools and districts. Mrs. Lyon is well-equipped to lead and support the students, teachers, and staff at Alma Intermediate School. We are excited to welcome her and look forward to all the positive contributions she will make to this school community.

Get ready for an exciting event! The Alma Dance Department will dazzle you with their Dance Show - Board Games starting today.

Let's journey back to the good old days with Alma Dance Dept and relive the joy of classic childhood games that have entertained us for years. Step into a world before digital devices, where human interaction, laughter, and various games were the ultimate cure for boredom!

Join us in cheering on these talented students as they grace the stage! Secure your tickets by contacting the Skokos PAC Box Office at (479) 632-2129 or by visiting the link below.

We are proud to honor the hardworking team of the Child Nutrition Department at Alma School District. On School Lunch Hero Day, we want to especially acknowledge their dedication. From crafting healthy meals, adhering to strict nutrition standards, and managing student food allergies, to serving with joy, this team manages a range of responsibilities. School Lunch Hero Day is an annual occasion to celebrate and recognize the commitment and efforts of the entire Child Nutrition Department. Today, we celebrate you and the incredible contributions you make!

Last week, The Airedale Post, also known as the Alma Middle School Yearbook group, had four students selected as honorable mentions in the 2024 Walsworth Photo Contest. Out of over 6,000 entries nationwide, including those from middle schools, high schools, and colleges, these four students were recognized for their exceptional photos. Let's congratulate the following students on this well-deserved recognition:

• Landri Robins / Honorable Mention
• Arista Martin / Honorable Mention
• Tanalee Thorman / Honorable Mention
• Presley Lefevre / Honorable Mention

The Junior Theatre group at Alma Middle School has been very active lately! They recently marked the success of their performance of "Wizard of Oz: The Deleted Scene" with a Cast Party at Vertical Horizons in Ft. Smith. A total of 36 performers and technicians participated in team-building activities and had a blast at the climbing gym. Following this, the group embarked on a trip to Branson where 32 AMS Theatre students attended the Queen Esther show at Sight & Sound Theatre. The day began with a meal at the renowned Billy Gail's Restaurant, where they had a great time. In the afternoon, they were amazed by the grand production, featuring an elaborate set, costumes, music, and live animals. This experience left them inspired and excited to audition for upcoming shows.

What an eventful and thrilling week it was! Among the almost 3,500 attendees from nearly 200 chapters, 41 Alma FFA members made their mark at the convention. Our members engaged in State Leadership Development Events, visited different booths at the College & Career Expo, took part in all six general sessions, relished the Wade Bowen Concert, and networked with members and industry figures from across the state. Kudos to all involved! Keep reading to discover the convention highlights and recipients of degrees.

Convention Highlights

• Hailey Kelly - Norman Borlaug Scholar
• Logan Flanagan- 5th in State Creed Speaking
• Ellie Johnson - Agriscience Division 5 Winner
• Alma FFA - Affiliated Chapter Recognition
• Alma FFA - National Chapter Award
• Leadership & Curriculum Program Recognition

Arkansas FFA State Degree Recipients

• Cory Cook
• Ross Brister
• Taylor Jones
• Xander Jones

Mrs. Dickens' students recently hosted a Gatsby-themed party to explore characterization and symbolism. Each student chose a character, crafted a dinner party setting reflecting the character, and presented their work to the class. Every group explained how their chosen elements, food, and decorations represented the character from the text. They displayed remarkable creativity, turning the room into a vibrant display of different eras and personalities. Great job!

On Tuesday, Alma High School organized the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony, where both incoming and outgoing officers were acknowledged. Special thanks to Mrs. Mills and Mrs. Burdick for supporting this group. Congratulations to all members, both incoming and outgoing!

INCOMING OFFICERS 2024-2025

President: Jasper Stockton

Vice President: Avery Bowerman

Treasurer: Addison Johnson

Secretary: Brianne Turner

Historian: Hailie Peppers

Parliamentarian: Ayden Kilgore

OUTGOING OFFICERS 2023-2024

President: Rebekah Williams

Vice President: Alondra Cerda

Treasurer: Tyler Wilcox

Secretary: Hannah Dooly

Historian: Olivia Roller

Parliamentarian: Caden Farris

NEW MEMBERS

Weston Arnett

Izabel Benson

Maggie Brogan

Rachel Brown

Brooklyn Bryant

Raleigh Burris

Isabella Chapen

Easton Daily

Breanna Engelke

Logan English

Morgan English

Cali Ferguson

Evan Green

Lexi Hathcock

Kayna Jones

Caden Khantharinh

Weston King

Owen McCoy

Nora Medlock

Brenna Morris

Jackson Rust

Arianna Stricklin

Rimini Zeigler

Alma Primary School is doing a fantastic job of providing enjoyable after-school programs for students and their families! This week, they hosted an epic Splatter Bash - a wild paint battle and popsicle party just for the boys. The male students at APS brought their families along for a blast of color and fun, creating unforgettable memories. A big thank you to everyone who participated!

Second-year students in the pre-education pathway have passed the paraprofessional exam, securing certification in Arkansas. They are now eligible for an additional credential as a Certified Teaching Assistant through the Arkansas Department of Education Division of Career and Technical Education. To attain the CTA credential, students must:

• Complete the full education program
• Pass the paraprofessional assessment and fulfill all requirements
• Conduct 80-100 hours of field experience

Advantages of the CTA credential include meeting the criteria for a highly qualified paraprofessional with a high school diploma or its equivalent. It includes pedagogical training and completion of a minimum of 9 credit hours towards a teaching degree. Individuals with a CTA credential receive priority consideration when applying to be a teacher apprentice in Arkansas. Congratulations to the following students on this remarkable accomplishment!

• Alyssa Adams
• Emily Cooper
• Hannah Crawford
• Hannah Dooly
• Macklaine Easton
• Malia Howard
• Storm King
• Allee Little
• Grace Peters
• Phallyn Roberts

On Thursday, the Alma High School Student Council held its annual Induction Ceremony. During the event, both new and returning officers and representatives were acknowledged, along with the graduating senior students. Jackson McMurray was granted a scholarship by the AHS Student Council Organization. These students are truly remarkable, dedicating themselves to assisting their peers in various ways. The future looks promising for this talented group!

Coach Richie and his archery students have put in a lot of effort! A big congratulations to the winners of the 5th Grade Archery Competition:

Girls

1. Lauren Walker
2. Madison Shavalier
3. Eva Patillo
4. Kinley Osburn
5. Keslyn Kang
6. Molly Clarke

Boys

1. Lawson Crabtree
2. Drake Brasuell
3. Matthew Moore
4. Tyler Simon, Brayden Chastain & Hudson Daily
5. Sam Cox
6. Basel Romo

A special mention to Lauren Walker, who claimed victory in the Top Girl versus Top Boy face-off against Lawson Crabtree!

Food for Friends is happy to contribute $500 to the Alma Community Outreach Center, along with donating around 250 lbs. of food. These donations were achieved through the dedicated involvement of students in the club. Students earn community service hours for their contributions, which contribute towards their CSL graduation credit. Great job!

Alma School District is preparing to introduce a pre-k program and would appreciate your feedback to assist in the planning phase. If you are considering enrolling your child in pre-k, please complete this survey. Please note that completing the survey does not guarantee enrollment for your child at this stage.

Be your child's greatest advocate by taking a moment to participate! We do not collect email addresses. The survey is short and seeks details on parent interactions and engagement. Access the survey by clicking the link below.

Support Technology Student Association students in reaching Nationals! To fund their trip to Orlando this summer, TSA students are selling laser-engraved cutting boards. These students are utilizing the classroom laser engraver to craft these unique cutting boards.

Save the date! Registration for AYV Camp is open! All girls and boys who have competed kindergarten through 5th grade are welcome to attend! Camp will be held on the AHS campus in both Crabtree and CBD Arena on May 29-30 from 1:00-3:00pm. ASD employees, email Coach Weaver for a promo-code!

With My School Menus, you can find out what is being served at your student's school, along with nutritional information, allergens, and more!

Some key features of using My School Menus:

• See menu items offered at your school
• View allergens and ingredients
• Access nutrient info

To get started, go to the iTunes App Store or Google Play and download the app "My School Menus." Select your state, district, and school to have access to menus on the go!

Alma School District offers parents the ability to pay for student meals online. Parents will need to set up a profile before making online payments. For support, call 877-237-0946. For more information, follow the link below.