Dear parents, students and community members:
It is with great enthusiasm that I write this year's "Back to School and Highlight" letter to all those who play such an important role in the educational process of our District's nearly 2,200 students. Each school year brings anticipation, excitement and with many, anxiety, of what the new school year may bring. As we begin this school year, I wish the greatest success for all our students. I also want to welcome new parents and students to the district.
In talking about success, the past school year brought many challenges yet many accomplishments were achieved. We are working hard to meet those challenges and will continue to be creative utilizing space within our district. At the Primary School level, we saw increases in our state assessment scores in both ITBS Reading and Mathematics, while implementing a very successful personalized learning model. At the Intermediate School, our teachers continue to incorporate STEM education, problem solving techniques, strategies, and opportunities designed to create solutions through collaboration. At the Middle School, we saw implementation of character education and school-wide advisory programs, 1:1 technology and new Cycle Kids program. At the High School, a change in leadership offering intentional well-rounded outcomes for students to become college/career ready and prepared for the global world after graduation. There is no doubt that PRMBA has changed the conversation regarding college/career readiness across our state, changed the conversation on how schools are designed, and how employ-ability determines the future of our students. There is no doubt how college concurrent courses and advanced placement courses work together with career education to create a 21st century, globally-prepared student. Our school district is looking forward to not only creating the best school but creating the best graduates.
During the past several years with great community support, the Bright Futures Community Engagement program, continues to be the premiere support system meeting the needs of our students on a daily basis.
We have many great traditions in our school district which includes a state recognized athletic program, state recognized career education model, Primary, Intermediate and Middle School Leader in Me program, state recognized choice delivery systems to meet the needs of ALL students and many others. Continuing the traditions of excellence is a very important concept, but creating better learning environments and opportunities for students will always be a significant priority. The uniqueness of the Pea Ridge School District has created a change to our mission and vision.
Our new mission is "Uncommon Education for ALL."
I truly believe the Pea Ridge School District meets the needs of ALL students by offering innovative, creative and non-traditional methods to inspire learning. This is what makes us different, it separates us from other districts, and we are proud of that.
The continued building of our partnerships with our district's families and our community stakeholders is vital to a successful school setting. We are here to serve our students and look forward to "working together for all students" during the 2017-2018 school year.
Respectfully,
Rick Neal, superintendent
Editorial on 08/02/2017