Conway Public Schools

🎉 Principal Month Spotlight 🎉 Meet David Yates, Principal at Bob Courtway Middle School! Fun Fact: "I used to have long hair and sang/played rhythm guitar in a praise band called The Branches." 🎸 Favorite Quote: "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. - Wayne Gretzky" - Michael Scott 🏒 Thank you, Mr. Yates, for leading with passion and creativity! #PrincipalMonth #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #CPSDascends #ThankAPrincipal

✨ Principal Month Spotlight ✨ Meet Carise Echols, Principal at Theodore Jones Elementary! Fun Fact: "I sleep with my eyes slightly open." 👀 Favorite Quotes: "Every storm runs out of rain." 🌧️ "Well done is better than well said." 🗣️ Mrs. Echols leads with love, fun, and compassion, creating a nurturing environment for both students and staff. Thank you, Mrs. Echols, for your dedication to our school community! #PrincipalMonth #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #CPSDascends #ThankAPrincipal

🎉 Congratulations to Timothy Garrison, one of Conway High School's National Merit Scholar Semifinalists! 🎉 Although Timothy is homeschooled, he has taken classes at CHS and has been an integral part of the soccer team for the past four years. He is actively involved in soccer and robotics, showcasing his passion for teamwork and innovation. Timothy plans to pursue college and grad school, aiming for a bright future ahead. He is the son of Kevin and Wendy Garrison and the brother of Suzanna and Andrew. Fun Fact: Timothy enjoys playing piano for his dog, who howls along! 🎹🐶 We’re proud of you, Timothy! Keep up the great work! ✨ #WampusCatPride #NationalMeritScholars #ConwayHigh #Ascend #AscendtoExcellence

🌟 Wampus Cat Wednesday: Where Are They Now? 🌟 This week, we're proud to spotlight Cindy Beckham, a distinguished alumna from the Class of 1980! After a remarkable 30-year career teaching high school history and economics at Conway High, Cindy transitioned into a new role as a ghostwriter, crafting memoirs for multimillionaires. She also serves on the Faulkner County Museum Board and the Faulkner County Historical Society board. An accomplished author, Cindy has published several books and edits the FCHS journal. Reflecting on her time at CPSD, Cindy fondly remembers the lively pep rallies in the gym and having classes in the iconic "pods." A true scholar, she graduated 4th in her class of 290 and went on to earn two degrees from UCA, plus 48 more graduate hours, all with honors. Cindy's dedication to education extended beyond her own learning—she taught Junior Achievement Economics/Student Company for 20 years. Her favorite teacher? Sherry Henderson. Cindy's advice to current CPSD students? "Soak up all the education you can." Let’s celebrate Cindy's incredible journey from CPSD to a fulfilling career and her continued contributions to our community! 💙🤍 #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends #WampusCatWednesday #WhereAreTheyNow

🧹✨ Happy Custodian Appreciation Day! ✨🧹 Today, we give a huge shoutout to our amazing custodial staff at Conway Public Schools. Their hard work, dedication, and attention to detail keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. From early mornings to late nights, they ensure our learning environment is at its best. Thank you, custodians, for all that you do! We appreciate you! 🙌💙 #CustodianAppreciationDay #CPSD #ThankYouCustodians #UnsungHeroes #ASCEND #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends

💙October is Principal Month! 💙 Throughout the month, we'll be celebrating the incredible leaders who make a difference in our schools every day. Stay tuned as we highlight our amazing principals! Join us in thanking them for their hard work, dedication, and the impact they make on our students, staff, and community. 🏫🚾 #PrincipalMonth #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #CPSDascends #ThankAPrincipal

🎉 Congratulations to Octavio Menon, one of Conway High School's National Merit Scholar Semifinalists! 🎉 Octavio has been a CPSD student for 12 years and is a talented pianist for the Conway Jazz Band. He also serves as a team captain for the VEX Robotics Team and works as a dietary server at the College Square Retirement Community, where he enjoys sharing his love for music with the residents. In college, Octavio plans to major in biomedical engineering with a minor in piano performance. He is the proud son of Balraj Menon and Cecilia Ortiz and brother to Samir. Fun Fact: Octavio often plays the piano for the residents of College Square! 🎹❤️ We are so proud of you, Octavio! Keep up the fantastic work! ✨ #WampusCatPride #NationalMeritScholars #ConwayHigh #Ascend #AscendtoExcellence

🎉 Congratulations to Annalise Montgomery, one of Conway High School's National Merit Scholar Semifinalists! 🎉 Annalise has been a dedicated student in the Conway School District for 5 years, including her senior year. She is a talented violinist in the Conway Symphony Orchestra and has previously been part of the CHS Orchestra and All-State Orchestra for two years. Annalise is also an active member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and National Spanish Honorary Society. She plans to attend college and is still exploring her major options. Annalise is the daughter of David and Karen Montgomery and sister to Evangeline. Fun Fact: Annalise has studied piano for 11 years and proudly holds the Arkansas Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish! 🎻🎹 We are so proud of you, Annalise! Keep up the amazing work! ✨ #WampusCatPride #NationalMeritScholars #ConwayHigh #Ascend #AscendtoExcellence

👔 Throwback Thursday: Honoring a Legacy 👔 Meet Mr. Carl Stuart, the man behind the name of Carl Stuart Middle School. As a former superintendent of Conway Public Schools, his leadership and dedication to education left a lasting impact on our district and Mr. Stuart's influence is still felt today. Were you a student or teacher at Carl Stuart Middle School? Share your memories and celebrate his legacy with us! 🌟 #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends #ThrowbackThursday

🌟 Wampus Cat Wednesday: Where Are They Now? 🌟 This week, we're spotlighting Sam George, a proud member of the CPSD Class of 2006! After graduation, Sam dedicated his life to serving in the Army and is now happily retired. Staying close to his roots, he's living in Conway, where he coaches travel basketball and football while working in the IT field. Reflecting on his time at CPSD, Sam cherishes the memories of his teachers and classmates. He believes that the unique styles and personalities of his peers made the Class of 2006 truly special. Playing basketball and bonding with his classmates stand out as some of his favorite moments. When it comes to advice for current CPSD students, Sam offers wise words: "Keep the big goal in mind. Realize that friends, trends, and decisions are temporary, but the wrong choice can have lasting effects on the rest of your life." He also encourages everyone to "stay AUTHENTIC to YOURSELF. Not everyone will like you, but remember that you have to live with the decisions that the person looking back at you in the mirror has made." Join us in celebrating Sam George and his continued impact on the community! 💙🤍 #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends #WampusCatWednesday #WhereAreTheyNow

📣Conway Public Schools and UACCM have officially partnered to provide Conway High School students in career and technical education courses the opportunity to earn college credit—without leaving campus! This collaboration opens new pathways for students to gain valuable skills and credentials before graduation. 🎓🤝 The pictures you see are from the signing day event of the Memorandum of Understanding between CPSD Administration and UACCM. “We’re excited to partner with UACCM to give our students more opportunities for success,” said Superintendent Dr. Jeff Collum. Read more at: https://www.conwayschools.org/article/1781600 Exciting times ahead for our students! #CPSD #UACCM #CareerEducation #StudentSuccess #Partnership #Ascend #AscendtoExcellance #CPSDAscends

📣Exciting News! Woodrow Cummins Elementary has been awarded the National Blue Ribbon School honor for the second time, previously recognized in 2018! 🌟 We are proud to be one of only three schools in Arkansas and among just 356 schools nationwide to receive this recognition in 2024! This accolade reflects our commitment to academic excellence and innovative teaching. Learn more about this prestigious award and what it means for our students: https://www.conwayschools.org/article/1782382 #BlueRibbonSchool #AcademicExcellence #AscendtoExcellence #CPSDAscends #WoodrowCumminsElementary

Update Message: Sent 09-20-24 Conway Public School Community, Please read both of these important messages regarding School Safety information related to Conway Public Schools. Please know that we continue to make the safety of our students and staff the number one priority. We understand there has been some confusion surrounding recent articles about threats involving Carl Stuart Middle School. Please know that the information being circulated relates to an incident that occurred three years ago. It is unrelated to the recent situation affecting our district. The email sent to parents and staff by Conway Public Schools referred to an anonymous, statewide threat that has been circulating for the past week, which has reached some students in our district. The message did not target any specific school or district, and we want to assure you that there have been no direct threats made against Carl Stuart Middle School or any other school in Conway Public Schools at this time. While there is no specific threat to our schools at this time, we are taking all necessary precautions and working closely with the Conway Police Department to monitor the situation. Below is the message that was sent to parents and staff on 09-19-24: Email Message sent 09-19-24 Dear Conway Public Schools, We want to make you aware of a situation impacting several school districts across Arkansas. Over the past few weeks, an anonymous threatening message has been circulating, unfortunately reaching students in our district. As always, Conway Public Schools takes any and all threats seriously, and we are handling this matter with the utmost care and attention. Our district remains highly vigilant, and will continue working closely with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of our students and staff. We want to remind everyone that threats made against schools are treated with the highest level of seriousness. Any students found responsible for such threats and/or sharing these types of messages will face school-based disciplinary action and legal consequences. We encourage you to take a moment to discuss with your student the serious consequences of making or sharing harmful threats. These actions cause alarm and disrupt the learning environment. Please remind your student to immediately inform school personnel if they come across any concerning messages or situations. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping our schools safe. As always, please feel free to contact CPSD with any questions, concerns, or information. Sincerely, Conway Public Schools

🔥 Throwback Thursday Flashback! 🔥 The 1989-90 CHS Fire Marshalls were keeping things safe and cool at Conway High! Were you part of this crew, or do you remember seeing them in action? ! 🔥✨ #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends #ThrowbackThursday

Wampus Cat Wednesday: Where Are They Now? 🕰️✨ This week’s spotlight is on Anthony Nail, Class of 2010! 🎓⚾ Anthony is marking his 11th year as a teacher and coach, currently in his 2nd year as the head baseball coach at Gentry High School. His coaching career has also included 6 years as the head baseball/head golf coach at Ouachita High School, a year as assistant baseball/head tennis coach at Sheridan High School, and 2 years as assistant baseball and 1 year as head golf coach at Marion High School. Reflecting on his CPSD days: Anthony looks back with gratitude for the incredible educators who taught him to think critically rather than just follow instructions. CHS Baseball coaches Noel Boucher, Barry Lueders, and Ryan Reed left a lasting impact, shaping his love for the game and life itself. He recalls the excitement of cheering on his classmates at football games and supporting every volleyball and basketball game during his high school years. One of his fondest memories? Throwing baby powder in the air during the 2009 starting lineup introductions to create a dramatic effect. 🚀 Favorite Teacher Highlight: Anthony’s favorite teacher was Jim Owen, whose dynamic approach to teaching history made it feel alive and engaging. Jim’s memorable “Owenisms” and his lesson on using our “B.S. detectors” are still relevant today, especially in an age of misinformation. Advice for Current Students: “Enjoy your time as a Wampus Cat—the years go by faster than you think. The friendships you make from kindergarten through 12th grade are some of the best you’ll ever have, so make an effort to stay in touch after graduation.” Thank you, Anthony, for sharing your journey and inspiring us all! 🌟👏 #WampusCatWednesday #WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends

💻 Happy IT Professionals Day! 💻 Today, we celebrate our incredible tech team at Conway Public Schools! 🛠️✨ At our Back to School Convocation in August, our tech team was honored with the Blue Heart Award for their outstanding dedication and hard work. They do it all—fix computers and Chromebooks, hang televisions, maintain our wireless networks, and so much more. Their behind-the-scenes efforts keep our schools running smoothly and our students and staff connected. Thank you to our amazing IT professionals for all that you do! 🙌💙 #ITProfessionalsDay #TechHeroes #BlueHeartAward #WeAreWampusCats #ASCEND #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends

🎉 CPSD Community Champion Volunteer Program 🎉 We had an AMAZING turnout this morning for our first volunteer training session, and we couldn’t be more excited to see so many in our community ready to make a difference! 💙 Thank you to all who attended! But don't worry—it’s not too late to join us! There are more training opportunities available for those who want to be part of this exciting initiative. Visit conwayschools.org/volunteer for more information and to sign up. 📅 Upcoming Volunteer Trainings: September 17 @ 5:30 PM September 30 @ 10:00 AM October 1 @ 5:30 PM Today’s training was led by our very own Paula Harris, Director of Academic Support & Innovative Projects, who did a fantastic job welcoming our volunteers and setting the stage for how we can support our students. 🙌 Together, we can ASCEND to greatness—thank you for helping us lift our students to new heights! ✨ #WeAreWampusCats #CPSDascends #AscendToExcellence #Ascend #CPSDCommunityChampion

🎉 ¡Celebremos el Mes de la Herencia Hispana! 🎉 From September 15th to October 15th, we proudly celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Conway Public Schools! 🏫✨ Join us in honoring the rich culture, history, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Throughout the month, our schools will be hosting various events and activities to educate and engage our students and community. Stay tuned as we share highlights of these wonderful celebrations and initiatives! 📚🎨🎶 #HispanicHeritageMonth #CPSD #ConwayProud #CelebrateDiversity #ASCEND #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends

📣🚾Tonight, we were excited to recognize and celebrate our amazing Teachers of the Year during the football game! Join us in honoring these dedicated educators who make a lasting impact on our students and community every day. #AscendtoExcellence #WampusCats #Conway #CPSDAscends

🌟 Throwback Thursday Spotlight! 🌟 We're taking a trip back to the 2002-2003 school year when the yearbook was dedicated to the one and only Paula Harris, now our Director of Academic Support & Innovative Projects! 📚✨ Do you remember this special moment? Celebrate with us as we honor her incredible contributions and dedication to our Wampus Cats over the years. Share your memories and give a shoutout to Paula in the comments! #WeAreWampusCats #Ascend #AscendToExcellence #CPSDascends #ThrowbackThursday #WampusCatPride