As educators, understanding that the school grading system serves as a vital tool for gauging school performance and driving improvement initiatives is critical. It is with great pleasure that ADE announces significant enhancements to this system, aimed at fostering a more simplified approach to assessing our schools' achievements.
Join us on a fascinating journey to discover the truth behind some common myths about how the brain works. These misconceptions can sometimes lead to less effective teaching. In this session, we'll learn how to tell the difference between scientific facts and popular myths, making sure our teaching methods are based on real brain science. Let's work together to ensure our students get the best education possible, grounded in accurate and reliable information!
Associate Deputy Commissioner, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Dr. Saunders serves as the Associate Deputy Commissioner for District Operations with the Arkansas Department of Education. Previously, he has been an assistant superintendent for Benton Public Schools in Benton, Arkansas. Additionally, he is the former assistant commissioner at the... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT Hoffman (M)
This session provides school administrators with a high-level overview of key federal child nutrition programs, including the School Breakfast Program (SBP), the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), and Special Provision Options such as the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and Provision 2. Participants will gain insights into program implementation, eligibility requirements, and strategies for maximizing participation while streamlining administrative processes.
Program Operations, Child Nutrition, ADE, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Krista Jackson is the Associate Director of Program Operations with the Child Nutrition Unit. Ms. Jackson has 14 years of experience working in Child Nutrition. She currently trains, hires, and supports Area Specialist who administer the Administrative and Procurement Reviews in... Read More →
Associate Director, Finance and Training, Child Nutrition Unit, DESE, ADE
Sheila Chastain is the Child Nutrition Unit, Associate Director Finance and Training. She has been assigned to various positions within the Child Nutrition Unit for the last 28 years. Ms. Chastain supervises a group 5 professionals within the Child Nutrition Unit who will provide... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT Fulton (SCC)
This comprehensive training will empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complex landscape of school funding, budget development, and financial sustainability. During this session, participants will explore the critical components of school budgets, including revenue sources, expenditure projections, funding aid calculations and the practical tools available to assist with developing your school budget.
Office of Coordinated Support and Services/ Fiscal Services, Arkansas Department of Education
Jason Miller is an accomplished education leader and finance professional with over 20 years of experience in Arkansas public education. He currently serves as a State Leadership Development Coach at the Arkansas Department of Education, where he provides statewide guidance on district... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT Hoffman (M)
Minimum standards for the Arkansas Self-Funded Cyber Response Program become effective July 1, 2025. Join a discussion of the practical ways these requirements will affect your district.
Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education
Jeff Killingsworth was privileged to be in the classroom for 12 years, teaching a variety of math and science classes from kindergarten through eighth grade, before joining the Arkansas Department of Education. He is currently the Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, and... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT Conway (MCC)
Minimum standards for the Arkansas Self-Funded Cyber Response Program become effective July 1, 2025. Join a discussion of the practical ways these requirements will affect your district.
Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education
Jeff Killingsworth was privileged to be in the classroom for 12 years, teaching a variety of math and science classes from kindergarten through eighth grade, before joining the Arkansas Department of Education. He is currently the Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, and... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT Conway (MCC)
Participants will review statewide data regarding merit pay disbursement during the 2024-2025 school year and learn more about the merit pay tab in LEA Insights.
Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE
Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT Salon B (M)
In this session, participants will explore effective strategies for maximizing the impact of categorical funds. We will cover best practices for fund management, compliance requirements, and innovative approaches to resource allocation. Attendees will leave with practical insights and tools to enhance their financial planning and ensure optimal use of categorical funds to support their educational goals.
Office of Coordinated Support and Services/ Fiscal Services, Arkansas Department of Education
Jason Miller is an accomplished education leader and finance professional with over 20 years of experience in Arkansas public education. He currently serves as a State Leadership Development Coach at the Arkansas Department of Education, where he provides statewide guidance on district... Read More →
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT Hoffman (M)
Participants will review statewide data regarding merit pay disbursement during the 2024-2025 school year and learn more about the merit pay tab in LEA Insights.
Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE
Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.
Tuesday July 29, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT Salon B (M)
