💙 Principal Kenny Clark – Julia Lee Moore Elementary
Today, we’re highlighting Mr. Kenny Clark, Principal of Julia Lee Moore Elementary!
Mr. Clark is passionate about creating a school where every child feels supported, encouraged, and inspired to do their best. He loves building relationships with students and staff and takes pride in fostering a positive and caring school culture where learning is fun and everyone can thrive.
Under his leadership, Julia Lee Moore continues to shine with strong academics, meaningful character education, and opportunities that help students grow both in and out of the classroom.
💙 Join us in celebrating Mr. Kenny Clark for his dedication, leadership, and heart for the students and staff at Julia Lee Moore Elementary! Leave a comment below or send him a note of appreciation here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
The Conway Public Schools Orchestras will present their annual "La Fiesta Orquesta" Concerts and Taco Supper fundraiser on Thursday, October 30th. Free public performances are held in the James H. Clark Auditorium:
5:30 pm Intermediate Orchestra (city-wide 7th graders)
6:15 pm Conway High School Orchestra
7:30 pm Beginner Orchestra (city-wide first-year players)
8:15 pm Conway Junior High 8th and 9th grade orchestras
An adult taco salad meal ($15) and a child soft taco meal ($10) is served in the Conway High School Cafeteria from 5-8 pm. Meals are catered by Make-a-Meal in Conway! Meal tickets are still available at the door. In addition, donations can be made in person and online at conwayorch.square.site.
Come hear the almost-300 students in the orchestra perform throughout the night, and support our music education goals through donations and by purchasing meal tickets! For more information, visit the Orchestra Booster Club website at conwayorchestras.weebly.com.
💙 Principal Lindsey Jones – Woodrow Cummins Elementary
We are excited to spotlight Mrs. Lindsey Jones, Principal of Woodrow Cummins Elementary!
In her first year as principal, Mrs. Jones brings incredible energy, heart, and passion to her school community. She says, “What I love most about being a principal is the chance to make a difference in both the lives of our students and our teachers. It’s so fulfilling to create a space where everyone feels supported, safe, and ready to grow.”
Her favorite quote, “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care,” by Theodore Roosevelt, perfectly captures her leadership style—rooted in compassion, connection, and care.
Fun fact: Mrs. Jones was the Wampus Cat mascot her senior year of high school in 2006! A proud Conway native, she says, “I absolutely love Conway—our community, our people—and we’re so grateful to call it home. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching my students succeed, whether it’s academically, on the court, in the community, or in life overall.”
At Woodrow Cummins, Mrs. Jones is helping launch exciting new programs that empower students and build strong relationships:
🚴♂️ Bikers Club, led by Mr. Charles Finkenbinder, teaches bike safety and leadership as older students mentor younger riders.
🏃♀️ Mighty Cats Running Club, guided by Coach O, helps students train all year to build endurance and confidence—working toward running a 5K by the end of the year!
💙 Join us in celebrating Mrs. Lindsey Jones for her enthusiasm, leadership, and deep love for the Wampus Cat community! Share your appreciation for Mrs. Jones below or send her a note here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
💙 Principal Jana Irvin – Marguerite Vann Elementary
As we continue to celebrate and wrap up National Principals Month, we’re excited to spotlight Mrs. Jana Irvin, Principal of Marguerite Vann Elementary!
In her first year as principal at Vann, Mrs. Irvin has already made a big impact with her caring leadership and contagious positivity. She says one of the best parts of her job is turning a student’s day around when they’re upset—and seeing the smile that follows after they visit. Those moments of connection remind her why she loves what she does.
Outside of school, Mrs. Irvin stays active—she plays roller derby and competitive softball! When she’s not spending time with her family, playing sports, or working, she enjoys relaxing with a good book.
At Marguerite Vann Elementary, she’s helping lead fun and meaningful traditions that build community and character. Each month, the school holds character assemblies to celebrate positive behavior and classroom excellence. One of the favorite awards? The Golden Trashcan, given to the cleanest classroom—a title voted on by the custodial team!
This year, students are also getting creative through a brand-new Media Club, where they’ll work together to produce video announcements and share news from around campus.
💙 Join us in celebrating Mrs. Jana Irvin for her energy, leadership, and commitment to helping every student at Vann Elementary feel seen, supported, and successful! Help us show Mrs. Irvin some Wampus Cat appreciation below or send her a note of thanks here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
💙 Principal Carise Echols – Theodore Jones Elementary
Today, we’re highlighting Mrs. Carise Echols, Principal of Theodore Jones Elementary
“What I enjoy most about being a Principal is the kids, hands down. Nothing compares to the smiles, hugs, and conversations I get to share with them every day. From greeting them in the morning to celebrating their ‘lightbulb moments’ in the classroom, those little interactions fill my heart. Watching our students grow, laugh, and learn reminds me daily of why this work matters so much. They’re the best part of my job and the reason I love coming to school every single day.” Her favorite quote — “Speak, even if your voice is shaking.” — captures her belief in courage, authenticity, and doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult.
Mrs. Echols is an accomplished educator and leader whose passion for students has been recognized across the state and beyond. She was named the 2019 Conway Teacher of the Year, 2022 Arkansas Assistant Principal of the Year, and received the 2025 AMLKC Award of Excellence in Student Leadership and Service. In 2023, she was featured in Edutopia for her article “Building Relationships at School as a Principal,” which continues to inspire educators nationwide. A proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA 1908), Mrs. Echols is also deeply active in her faith and community.
At Theodore Jones Elementary, Mrs. Echols leads with heart — celebrating every success, big or small. One of the school’s most loved traditions is the “Yay Call of the Day” program. Whenever a student does something exceptional, their teacher submits a quick form, and the student receives a celebratory phone call home, a special prize, and a selfie with the principal. Their photo is then displayed on the Yay Call of the Day board for everyone to see. This fun, meaningful tradition spreads joy throughout the school and reinforces what Theodore Jones Elementary is all about — recognizing excellence, celebrating growth, and building relationships that matter.
💙 Show your appreciation for Mrs. Echols in the comments or send her a note here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
💙 Principal Shannon Black – Preston & Florence Mattison Elementary
Today we are shining the spotlight on Mrs. Shannon Black, Principal of Preston & Florence Mattison Elementary!
Mrs. Black finds the greatest joy in serving students and watching them grow—not just academically, but in confidence and character. She loves building strong relationships with students and seeing them exceed even their own expectations. Her passion for helping children believe in themselves drives everything she does at Mattison Elementary.
Fun fact: Mrs. Black was a competitive cheerleader growing up! Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cheering on her three kids in their extracurricular activities, and relaxing at her favorite place—the beach.
At Mattison Elementary, one of the most beloved traditions is the Mattison Thanksgiving Day Parade, a festive event that brings students, staff, and families together to celebrate creativity, community, and gratitude. It’s a joyful highlight of the year that perfectly reflects Mrs. Black’s commitment to creating a positive and connected school culture.
💙 Help us celebrate Mrs. Shannon Black for her dedication, enthusiasm, and heart for students and families at Mattison Elementary! Show your appreciation for Mrs. Black below or send her a note of thanks here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
🤸♀️ Celebrating Our CPSD Physical Therapists! 💡
October is National Physical Therapy Month, and we're taking a moment to shine a spotlight on the incredible impact of Kasey Strack and Elizabeth Hart, our dedicated Physical Therapists!
Their work goes beyond motion—it's about empowering every student with the strength, balance, and confidence to succeed both in the classroom and in life. From individualized care plans to joyful progress, they are truly helping our students unlock their full potential every single day.
Thank you, Kasey and Elizabeth, for your exceptional skill and tireless commitment to the health of our CPSD family! 🌟
#NationalPhysicalTherapyMonth #PhysicalTherapy #CPSDheroes #WeAreWampusCats #UnlockPotential
💙 Principal Yvonne Sturdivant – Carolyn Lewis Elementary
Today, we’re highlighting Mrs. Yvonne Sturdivant, Principal of Carolyn Lewis Elementary.
Mrs. Sturdivant loves supporting and celebrating the incredible work of teachers, staff, and students. She says, “Each day I get to encourage growth, recognize successes both big and small, and create an environment where everyone feels valued.” Her favorite quote, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind,” reflects her focus on fostering a positive, caring school community.
With 28 years of experience in education—19 as a classroom teacher and 9 as an administrator—Mrs. Sturdivant is committed to student success and professional growth. Fun fact: she’s an identical twin! Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family and continuing her own learning journey.
At Carolyn Lewis Elementary, she leads several unique programs, including:
Evening with the Arts, showcasing student creativity through performances and artwork, with opportunities for families to participate.
Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru, a festive holiday tradition with themed displays created by staff and community members.
WIN (What I Need) Intervention Program, providing personalized academic support to help every student grow.
💙 Join us in celebrating Mrs. Sturdivant for her leadership and dedication to students, staff, and families! Show your appreciation in the comments or send her a note here: conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
💙 Principal Dr. Heather Nutt – Jim Stone Elementary School
As we continue to celebrate and wrap up National Principals Month, we want to shout out each of our incredible principals who make Conway Public Schools such a special place. Today, we’re highlighting Dr. Heather Nutt, Principal of Jim Stone Elementary School!
In her first year as principal, Dr. Nutt is already making an incredible impact. She shares, “One of the most rewarding aspects of being an elementary principal is witnessing the growth that takes place every day—both in our students and our staff. Watching a child gain confidence as they master a new skill or seeing a teacher flourish in their practice brings a deep sense of purpose to my work.” Her favorite quote, “Choose joy,” perfectly captures the heart and positivity she brings to her leadership each day.
A proud Wampus Cat alumnus, Dr. Nutt has 23 years of dedicated experience in education. She holds a doctorate in education, with her dissertation focused on the science of reading—a reflection of her deep commitment to literacy and student success. Outside of school, she loves spending time with her family and friends.
At Jim Stone Elementary, Dr. Nutt and her team focus on family engagement and building connections between home and school. From PE activity bags that encourage families to play together, to monthly reading incentives and a schoolwide Read-A-Thon, every initiative centers around community and growth. The school also hosts an annual Winterfest, a beloved tradition that brings families together to celebrate the season with fun, laughter, and lasting memories.
💙 Join us in celebrating Dr. Nutt for her dedication, positivity, and commitment to helping every student and teacher at Jim Stone Elementary grow and succeed! Leave a comment below or send her a note of appreciation here: conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
🎭 On the Radio This Morning! 🎭
This morning on our Conway Public Schools Radio Highlight, we had the pleasure of talking with Mr. Johnny Passmore, CHS Drama Teacher, and Senior KC Bagwell, Director of the upcoming performance — 12 Angry Jurors!
They shared behind-the-scenes details about the cast, hard work, and what audiences can expect from this powerful production. 👏
🎬 CHS Drama Department Presents: 12 Angry Jurors
Following the closing arguments in a murder trial, twelve jurors must decide the fate of a young defendant. What begins as an open-and-shut case soon unravels as one juror casts doubt, forcing the others to confront their biases, tempers, and personal truths.
🗓️ Showtimes:
📅 Thursday at 7:00 PM
📅 Saturday at 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
📍 James H. Clark Auditorium
🎟️ Tickets:
Available at the door — cash or check only
$7 for students & staff | $12 for adults
Don’t miss this gripping production brought to life by our incredible Wampus Cat performers!
#CHSDrama #WampusCatsOnStage #12AngryJurors #CHSArts #WeAreCPSD #WampusCatPride
💙 Principal Amy Howell – Ida Burns Elementary
Today, we’re highlighting Mrs. Amy Howell, Principal of Ida Burns Elementary!
Mrs. Howell’s greatest joy as a principal comes from putting kids first in every decision and action. She believes in fostering a school environment where every child feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed, not only academically but personally. Collaboration is at the heart of her work — she enjoys working alongside her dedicated staff to share ideas, strategies, and insights, ensuring students have the best educational experience possible. She says it best: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller. It really speaks to the power of collaboration and teamwork, achieving something greater than any one individual could accomplish alone.
Currently, Mrs. Howell is pursuing her doctorate, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. She is also a proud mother of three sons, and loves following them on their many adventures in sports, church, and community activities.
Ida Burns Elementary is thriving under Mrs. Howell’s leadership, offering programs that reinforce positive behavior, student achievement, and character development:
Claw and Paw Shop – Students earn CATS cash for positive behavior throughout the month and spend it on fun items or experiences, giving them a sense of responsibility and reward.
A renewed focus on schoolwide positive behavior programs, ensuring students have consistent encouragement and recognition for their efforts.
Mrs. Howell’s leadership is marked by compassion, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, making Ida Burns a school where students, staff, and families all feel valued and connected.
💙 Show your appreciation for Mrs. Howell in the comments or send her a note of thanks here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
🚌 School Bus Safety Starts with YOU!
Whether you’re a Wampus Cat riding the bus or a driver sharing the road, everyone plays a part in keeping our students safe. 💛💙
For Students:
🐾 Arrive at your stop 10 minutes early
🐾 Stay back at least 10 feet from the curb
🐾 Wait for your driver’s signal before crossing
🐾 Use the handrail when boarding
🐾 Stay seated and face forward
🐾 Keep noise down — no distracting behavior
For Drivers:
🚗 Stop for flashing red lights
🚗 Slow down in school zones
🚗 Watch for crossing students
🚗 Never pass a stopped bus
🚗 Be patient — safety comes first!
Thank you for helping protect our Wampus Cats every day. Together, we make the ride to school a safe one! 🐾
#BusSafetyWeek #WampusCatPride #SchoolBusSafetyStartsWithYou
💙 Principal Shannon Riner – Ellen Smith Elementary
As we continue to celebrate and wrap up National Principals Month, we want to shout out each of our principals who make Conway Public Schools a special place for students, staff, and families. Today, we’re highlighting Mrs. Shannon Riner, Principal of Ellen Smith Elementary!
Mrs. Riner loves the little moments — hugs, smiles, and laughter from students — that make every day meaningful. Her favorite quote is, “A problem is a chance for you to do your best” – Duke Ellington.
Growing up on a dairy farm, Mrs. Riner learned hard work, perseverance, and creativity at a young age—raising baby calves, tending a garden, and preparing food for the winter. She never planned to go to college, but thanks to her mother’s encouragement, she earned her degree and began a remarkable career in education. Over the years, she has taught kindergarten, second grade, fourth grade, and even college courses at CBC, and has served as an instructional coach and assistant principal.
Family is at the heart of Mrs. Riner’s life. She is a proud mother to Casey (29), Candyce (23), and bonus son Deonta (24) and stepmom to three wonderful stepchildren in Georgia. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, thrifting, traveling, and, of course, coffee — her true love language!
Conway Elementary is proud to offer programs and initiatives that support students, staff, and families, including:
Student Success Program (sponsored by Axiom)
Employee & Teacher of the Month programs (sponsored by local businesses)
Starbooks Reading Initiative (supported by Paladino Construction, Conway Corp, FAB&T, and First Security Bank)
Positive Office Referrals to recognize great student behavior
Traveling Hispanic Family Literacy Events (funded by a Conway Foundation grant)
These programs, along with her dedication and leadership, help make Ellen Smith Elementary a place where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, and where families feel welcomed and supported.
💙 Let’s show Mrs. Riner some Wampus Cat appreciation! Leave a comment below or send her a note of thanks here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
💙 Principal Heather Leavell – Sallie Cone Preschool
As we continue to celebrate and wrap up National Principals Month, we want to shout out each of our principals who make Conway Public Schools a special place for students, staff, and families. Today, we’re highlighting Mrs. Heather Leavell, Principal of Sallie Cone Preschool!
Mrs. Leavell’s passion is creating a sense of belonging and support for students, staff, and families — a place where everyone feels valued and empowered to learn and grow. She’s dedicated to making a lasting impact on young children’s learning, and her leadership helps shape the positive culture at Cone every day.
Fun facts about Mrs. Leavell: she has been a witness in a murder trial, attended a presidential impeachment trial, and as a young adult dreamed of singing the national anthem at a Major League Baseball game. When she’s not at school, she enjoys reading, baking, and traveling to National Parks with her family.
Sallie Cone Preschool is home to the Fueling Brains program, which supports student learning and development through research-based strategies and activities. Mrs. Leavell also prioritizes early childhood learning and family engagement, ensuring students get the strong start they need while families feel connected and involved in their child’s education.
💙 Show your appreciation for Mrs. Leavell in the comments below or send her a note of thanks here:conwayschools.org/o/cps/page/staff-celebrations
Our Wampus Cats have rolled into National School Bus Safety Week! 🐾🚌
Nearly 5,000 students ride our buses each day — and our amazing drivers make sure every Cat arrives safely to school and back home again. 💛💙
Let’s give a big Wampus Cat “thank you” to our transportation team for all they do! Thank you to our Conway community for doing your part — slowing down, stopping for buses, and helping keep our Wampus Cats safe every day.
#WampusCatPride #BusSafetyWeek #ThankABusDriver
🎶 This week on our Conway Public Schools Radio Highlight, CHS Band Director Nathan Cunningham and Drum Major PK Sublett joined us to share all about the Conway High School Band, this year’s marching season, and their upcoming performances! They received a 1st Division rating at the Bands of America Memphis Regional Marching Championship. CHS Wampus Cat Band is the BEST BAND IN THE LAND! 🎺💙
We’re so proud of our band program and the incredible talent and leadership that make it shine! 🐾
Don’t forget to tune in every Wednesday morning at 7:30 AM to hear exciting updates, stories, and events happening across Conway Public Schools!
📻 Catch us on:
✅ KAT Country 98.9 / 92.5 FM & AM 800
✅ 92.7 JACK-FM
✅ My Country Y107
#WeAreCPSD #WampusCatPride #ConwayBand #ConwayPublicSchools #WeAreConway #ChampionsForKids
Wampus Cat Pride – Safety Volunteer Spotlight
For our second Wampus Cat Pride recognition last night at our October School Board Meeting, we’re proud to honor Mr. Charles Finkenbinder, Conway City Attorney, for his incredible service as a CPSD safety volunteer.
Mr. Finkenbinder volunteers at multiple campuses, dedicating his time and energy to supporting our students and staff. His passion for serving our schools and community is truly remarkable!
Thank you, Mr. Finkenbinder, for going above and beyond for Conway Public Schools. We are so grateful for your dedication and heart for our students.
Check out this video of him in action: https://youtu.be/jLJ7n_ZTupk
#WampusCatPride #CPSDSafety #ConwayPublicSchools #ChampionsForkids #WeareCPSD
Check out our October School Board meeting recap. Some highlights include Hispanic Heritage Month, Mr. Charles Finkenbinder, National Principals Month, Paraprofessional Salary Schedule increase, School Board Dr. Barrett Petty nominated as our ASBA Delegate Assembly Representative, Board approved the Superintendent search advisory committee, Ms. Thelma Moton joined in the conversation about Mentoring plan, and more!
🎉 Wampus Cat Pride – Hispanic Heritage Month!
Conway Public Schools celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month across all campuses with student learning, art, and cultural appreciation. We also joined the Hispanic Heritage Festival at Laurel Park, sharing Wampus Cat spirit and student artwork honoring Hispanic culture. Tonight at our October School Board Meeting, we highlighted the art contest winners!
🏆 Art Contest Winners:
1️⃣ Lola O’Connor – Conway Junior High
2️⃣ Trinity Cohee – Conway Junior High
3️⃣ Amelia Thomas – Ellen Smith Elementary
4️⃣ Isabel Choc – Conway High School
5️⃣ Coniah Williams – Simon Middle School
Special thanks to our ESOL team, Dr. Yanez, Mr. Hurtado, and Mark Daniels with Sonic for supporting our students and community! 💙🐾
#WampusCatPride #HispanicHeritageMonth #CPSD
