Everyone, meet our latest Classroom Champion, Cortez Aikens! You’ll usually find him at Conway High School guiding 10th-12th graders through the world of AV and Media Communications, but he’s also the man behind operating the jumbotron to keep the energy high during our sporting events.

When asked for just one word to describe him, his nominator chose KNOWLEDGEABLE, and it’s easy to see why. They shared:
"Mr. Aikens is so fun to work with. He knows all things journalism and AV, so our courses align nicely. A media group that includes my print/visual journalism pairs nicely with his broadcast and we are able to create more opportunities for students to learn all mediums."

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids

10 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Cortez Aikens "knowledgeable"
Calling all Wampus Cat Alumni! 💙
As the Class of 2026 prepares to walk across the stage and join your ranks, we want to know who is out there cheering them on! Alumni Roll Call: What year did you graduate from Conway High? Let us know in the comments! 🎓👇

If you are joining us for the big event tonight, here is everything you need to know:
🗓 Date: Friday, May 8
📍 Location: Estes Stadium
🕔 Time: Gates open at 5:30 p.m. | Ceremony begins at 7:00 p.m.
🚗 Parking: Guests are highly encouraged to carpool to avoid long walks from the parking areas!
For more details on the ceremony, visit: https://www.conwayschools.org/article/2851707

#WampusCatGraduation #ClassOf2026 #CPSDStrong #ConwayAlumni #ChampionsForKids #WeAreWampusCats #6Legs4Life
10 days ago, Conway Public Schools
alumni roll call with CHS in the background
Say hello to Natalie Sensebaugh, a Classroom Champion at RDMS! Natalie teaches 7th Grade Math and is described in one word as TRANQUIL. While her quiet strength might sometimes go unseen, her ability to build deep, foundational relationships with her students is one of her greatest powers as an educator. These connections create a classroom filled with trust and encouragement, giving students the confidence to grow both academically and personally.

Why she was nominated:
"I am nominating her because she is leaving a lasting legacy with both her students and her family. Her heart for people is truly beautiful, and the care, kindness, and encouragement she pours into others will continue to impact lives for years to come."

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #RDMS #ConwaySchools
11 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Natalie Sensebaugh "tranquil"
Everyone, meet our latest Classroom Champion, Amy Dennie! You can find her at Ellen Smith Elementary, where she teaches 4th Grade Reading. When asked for just one word to describe her, her nominator chose GENEROUS. Amy is known for her incredible classroom transformations, turning her room into everything from a raceway or a "Starbooks" café to a mad scientist lab. These immersive worlds allow her students to practice their reading skills in a fun, high-energy environment that brings literacy to life.

Why she was nominated:
"Amy is one of the most passionate and innovative educators I’ve ever met. She pours her heart into making reading an adventure, often spending hours after the bell rings to execute elaborate room transformations. By immersing her students in these new worlds, she truly brings literacy to life. Conway Schools is infinitely blessed to have her in the classroom."

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
11 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Amy Dennie "generous"
📢 Welcome to the Wampus Cat Family! 🐾
New Student Registration for the 2026-27 school year is NOW OPEN. This registration is specifically for students who are NEW to the Conway Public School District (including incoming Kindergarteners).

💻 Register online at: conwayschools.org/newreg

Note for current families: Returning Student Registration for those already enrolled in CPSD will open later this summer. Stay tuned for updates!
12 days ago, Conway Public Schools
26-27 New Student Registration Now Open
Today we celebrate the voices that bridge our community! Happy National Interpreter Appreciation Day! 🌍✨

We want to give a special shout-out to Karla Braswell and Grace Smith, our incredible CSPD Community Liaisons. Their work goes far beyond translation; they ensure that every family has a seat at the table and that every student is heard and understood. We are so fortunate to have their expertise and heart as they foster inclusivity across our entire district.

Thank you, Karla and Grace, for making Conway Schools a place where everyone belongs! 🙌

#InterpreterAppreciation #CPSDStrong #CommunityLiaisons #ConwaySchools
12 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Thank you in different languages
Meet Bri Irvin, a dedicated 7th grade ELA teacher at Carl Stuart! Her one-word description is EMPATHY. Bri is an amazing mentor because of her deep understanding of her students. She recognizes that many "behaviors" are actually students going through things much bigger than the classroom, and she meets them exactly where they are.

Why she was nominated:
"She understands what students are going through, and advocates HARD for her students. She has the tough conversations well, and continues to do so with empathy and professionalism. SHE GETS IT! I have been in her classroom while she is teaching, and she does a great job explaining the material as well as walking students through their assignments on an individual basis."

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
12 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Bri Irvin empathy
A great Wampus Cat morning featuring our Maintenance department on the radio with JR! Timothy Mcmahan, CPSD Maintenance Supervisor, and Jacob Smith, CPSD Maintenance Electrician. We also enjoyed highlighting Jacob's awesome experience of winning "Hands on a Hyundai" this weekend at Toad Suck. Jacob's perseverance through that event is a big encouragement to us all as we persevere the next few weeks of school!
12 days ago, Conway Public Schools
picture of team on the radio
We have a special spotlight for the "Dynamic Duo" at Ellen Smith Elementary, Angela Mohnkern and Katrina King! Working as our Bookkeeper and Nurse, they are described as THOUGHTFUL AND SUPPORTIVE. They are true hidden gems who welcome everyone with a warmhearted spirit and make the school a brighter place for both students and staff.

Why they were nominated:
"I know these wonderful ladies are not classroom teachers but they are both amazing and care for the students and staff so much! I would love for them to know that it does not go unnoticed all the wonderful things that they do for us at Ellen Smith Elementary. They know how to cheer anyone up and make our school a great place to be!"

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
12 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Angela Mohnkern & Katrina King “thoughtful and supportive”

Happy National School Nurse Day! 🩺💙

Today we are celebrating the incredible nurses across our district who work tirelessly to keep our students healthy, safe, and ready to learn. Our school nurses do so much more than just treat scraped knees; they care for our students and staff with a warmhearted spirit that makes our schools such a great place to be. Whether they are offering medical support or just a quick word to cheer someone up, their dedication to our school community is unmatched.

Join us in saying a huge "Thank You" to all of our school nurses for their compassion and heart!

#SchoolNurseDay #CPSDStrong #ThankYou #ConwaySchools #ChampionsForKids #WeAreWampusCats

12 days ago, Conway Public Schools
School Nurse day "Thank you!"
Nureses

✨ Shoutout to our amazing 25-26 School year New Hires - Teachers & Staff! ✨

As we reflect on this school year, we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible individuals who joined our district at the start of the year. This photo takes us back to those first days full of excitement, new beginnings, and big hopes for the year ahead when our staff heard an encouraging word from Coach Sidney Moncrief.

Since then, you’ve jumped in, built relationships, supported students, and made a meaningful impact across our schools. We’re so grateful you chose to be here and to be part of our story.

Thank you for the energy, passion, and heart you bring each day—we’re better because of you! 💙

#TeacherAppreciationWeek #CPSD #TeamConway #WampusCats #6legs4life

13 days ago, Conway Public Schools
staff photos
Say hello to Anne Henry Milner, a Classroom Champion at Conway High School! She teaches 10-12 Art and is described in one word as SUNSHINE! Mrs. Milner is a positive force for everyone she meets, often supporting her students as humans first by making sure they have a snack, a drink, or just someone to laugh with. This year, she led our students to a state art competition and a Conway High Art Gallery Night, all while completing her graduate hours at UCA with a constant smile.

Why she was nominated:
"Mrs.Milner is just a positive force to all she meets on the daily, including her students, fellow teachers and support staff, and administrators. She has been so supportive to our art department, leading the way to a state art competition for our students and a Conway High Art Gallery Night. She did all this with a constant smile, while completing graduate hours at UCA this year. She's one of the hardest working, talented teachers I know! I'm so thankful to get to work alongside her!

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
13 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Anne Henry Milner, "sunshine"
🍪✨ Celebrating the sweetest part of our district—our staff! ✨🍪 This #TeacherAppreciationWeek, we’re delivering a little treat to the incredible educators and support staff who make a difference every single day. From early mornings to late afternoons, your dedication, care, and commitment to students never go unnoticed. We hope these cookies add a small dose of joy to your day as a token of our gratitude for all that you do. Thank you for showing up, pouring in, and making our schools such special places to learn and grow. 💙 #ThankATeacher #GratefulHearts #WeLoveOurStaff
13 days ago, Conway Public Schools
staff with cookies
staff with cookies
staff with cookies
staff with cookies

Virtual Learning Process Community Forum
Join us tomorrow for a community forum designed to gather valuable input on a virtual program in our district. This workshop provides an opportunity for families and community members to share their perspectives, helping us listen, learn, and shape a program that best meets the needs of our students.

This meeting will be held tomorrow May 6th from 9:00am to 10:00am at the CPSD Administrative Annex Building.

13 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Virtual Learning Process graphic
Say hello to Nathan Howse, a Classroom Champion at Theodore Jones Elementary! Mr. Howse teaches 4th Grade ELA, but his impact goes far beyond the lesson plan. He is described in one word as THOUGHTFUL, and he is known for the way he builds authentic, life-long connections with his students. In fact, if you ask any of his former students who their favorite teacher is, they will almost always say "Mr. Howse."

Why he was nominated:
"Mr. Howse has the most unique and creative way of integrating fun, nature, and excitement into his curriculum. He has been an integral part of creating an outdoor classroom and garden so that learning extends beyond the classroom."

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
13 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Nathan Howse, Classroom Champion, "Thoughtful"
Happy National Teacher Day! 🍎✨

Today is all about celebrating the incredible educators who spark curiosity and change lives every day. We want to hear from YOU! Whether it’s a teacher you have right now or someone from years ago who made a lasting impact, let's shower them with some love.

Drop a comment below and shout out your favorite past or present teacher! 👇 📢

#NationalTeacherDay #CPSDStrong #ThankATeacher #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
13 days ago, Conway Public Schools
"Best Teacher Ever"

Say hello to Denisha Knapp, a Classroom Champion at Conway High School! Denisha wears many hats, teaching English 12, Oral Communication, and Biology 10. Her nominator describes her in one word as DRIVEN. She is the ultimate resource at CHS, using her deep knowledge of special education to empower her coworkers and parents alike, ensuring everyone feels equipped to best serve our students.

Why she was nominated:
"Denisha Knapp is the first person everyone at CHS calls when they are in crisis. She quietly serves in so many different places while still playing the role of teacher and mentor in the classroom. She demands excellence of herself, her coworkers, and her students. Despite forcing people out of their comfort zones in order to grow, colleagues and students flock to her for advice and support. She is easily one of the most beloved people in the building!"

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids

14 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Denisha Knapp
Everyone, meet our first Classroom Champion, Jennifer Seifert! You can find her making a difference at Ruth Doyle Middle School, where she teaches 5th grade Social Studies. When asked for just one word to describe her, her nominator chose ENCOURAGER. She has a remarkable ability to recognize the unique needs of every individual she encounters. Through her attentiveness and compassion, she brings a constant stream of positivity into the lives of her students and colleagues, making everyone feel truly valued.

Why she was nominated:
"I nominate Jennifer Seifert because she exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. She consistently goes beyond her core responsibilities, demonstrating genuine care and commitment to the well-being and success of every student she serves. Jennifer has an exceptional ability to recognize when someone is in need and responds with thoughtful, meaningful support that makes a lasting impact. Her dedication, compassion, and positive influence create an environment where individuals feel valued, encouraged, and inspired to succeed."

#CPSDStrong #ClassroomChampion #ConwaySchools #WeAreWampusCats #ChampionsForKids
14 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Jennier Seifert Headshot with "Encourager" underneath

We are proud to highlight an incredible partnership with Lisa’s Closet, founded in honor of the late Miss Lisa Barber—an exceptional educator in the Vilonia School District who lived a life centered on service and giving back. Today, her legacy continues through the work of her husband, Shawn Barber, along with dedicated board members who share her passion for supporting students.

Lisa’s Closet is making a meaningful impact across our elementary campuses by helping provide one of the most essential—and often first noticed—items a student wears: shoes. Currently serving four of our elementary schools, the organization will expand this fall to all nine elementary campuses, ensuring even more students have access to quality footwear.

Through strong collaboration with school counselors, Lisa’s Closet has already been meeting student needs by providing funds for shoe purchases. Now, they are going a step further—working to streamline the process by directly purchasing and delivering shoes to campuses, easing the workload on school staff while continuing to meet student needs quickly and compassionately.

This partnership reflects the very best of our Conway community. We are deeply grateful for Lisa’s Closet and their unwavering commitment to serving our students and families.

16 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Lisa's closet and admin pictured
CPSD! Go cheer on our very own Wampus Cat, Jacob Smith, from our Maintenance department, who has his "Hands on a Hyundai" at Toad Suck Daze! "Contestant 21 is Jacob Smith, 33, and a Conway Wampus Cat. Jacob, who is an electrician, entered the event to support the community but is highly motivated to win. His motto is “only the strong survive”. He says he has the ambition of a hodophile (I googled this and it means very passionate about adventure)! I would say Jacob is going to be starting a big adventure tomorrow."
16 days ago, Conway Public Schools
Jacob Smith
Jacob Smith
Jacob Smith