Strong-Huttig continuing to progress in academics, facilities, fiscally
Superintendent of Strong-Huttig School District
I would like to reflect on what the district has accomplished in the years past. With the support of a great administrative leadership team, directors of child nutrition, finance, maintenance, teachers and students; the district has made progress in academics, facilities and fiscal areas. I chose to focus on these three areas, because they are what the Arkansas Department of Education considers each year when they decide whether to allow a district to remain open under Act 377 (the waiver to allow schools under 350 students to continue to operate). Academics: The StrongHuttig School District students continue to show improvement on the ACT Aspire. Both schools are having more students score at ready or proficient on the interim test given this year.
Strong High School students also have improved scores on the ACT Composite as they prepare to attend college or enter the work force. District scores are about 3/10 of a point below the state average for 2018-19.
Facilities: Both campuses have received upgrades over the past three years. New fire alarm systems were installed and both schools’ cafeterias received upgrades which included ventilation, removal of older equipment that was no longer in use, painting and pressure washing.
Teachers have access to four networked copiers that have the ability to sort, staple and punch holes in materials prepared for students. These copiers also provide teachers with access to be able to scan documents for use in the classroom.
All classrooms are supplied with a cart of laptop computers for student use and interactive smart boards for students and teachers. Computer labs with desktops are available at each campus
specifically for interim and summative testing and research projects for students. The wireless hardware has been updated to increase access to the internet throughout both buildings. Gardner Strong
Elementary: The main offices and several smaller offices as well as a second grade classroom had carpet and trim removed and then the concrete floors were sealed and
shined. Glass doors were treated with frosting paint to reduce utility costs. The main entrance was equipped with a ringer to notify office staff when parents or guardians are entering the building. Classroom book rooms were cleaned and reorganized for use by teachers and students. Art and music classes that were previously housed in portable buildings have been relocated inside the main building. Strong High School:
The outside wall panels of the auditorium were painted with bright colors to make the campus more appealing. The inside of the auditorium received new lighting and seating. Also the stage floor was varnished and sealed while stage walls were repainted. Royal Blue paint was applied on the roof of the field house, on all outside metal doors, and on the roof of the practice facility.
Signs were placed on the gymnasium and field house that were purchased by Bulldog Supporters. Revenue generated from these signs paid for upgrades to athletic facilities. Due to supporters who purchased advertisements, the school was able to purchase a new scoreboard for the football field. A drainage system was also added to the football field. Demolition of the former band hall/ALE building improved the appearance of the campus and also created open space for practice and parking during events.
The Strong-Huttig School District is financially solvent. We are very cautious with our spending, but teachers understand if they need materials we will find a way to supply them. We are able to fund our afterschool tutoring program staffed with certified teachers assisted by paraprofessionals with NSLA funds. Our district enrollment has shown an increase since this time last school year.
The district is looking forward to many more years in operation and continuing to improve in all areas for students and staff. Communication remains a top priority so if you have questions or concerns, please contact the schools at 870-7973040.