Prairie Grove superintendent’s contract extended

PRAIRIE GROVE — The School Board is pleased with Superintendent Lance Campbell’s work thus far and has decided to keep him on for at least another year.

The Prairie Grove School Board on Jan. 17 extended Campbell’s contract for another year, so it runs through June 2027, according to William Dick, board president.

The board met in executive session for about 30 minutes at the end of the regular monthly meeting for Campbell’s evaluation. The board extended Campbell’s contract with no changes in salary, Dick said. Campbell’s salary this school year is $150,720, according to district documents.

Campbell has finished his first six months as superintendent and board members have been happy with his work during this time, Dick said.

“The biggest thing we really like is his communication skills, not just to the board, but with everyone, and his visibility,” Dick said, noting Campbell rarely is in his own office because he is out visiting school buildings to see what’s going on.

Campbell also has been active in the community, Dick said. The superintendent has joined Prairie Grove Lions Club and has attended City Council and Planning Commission meetings.

When searching for a new superintendent last year, communication and visibility were two of the main goals identified by the board, school staff and the community.

“I’ve sat with a lot of different superintendents over the years,” Dick said. “We’re really pleased with the actions we’re seeing.”

STAFF SURVEY RESULTS

In other business, Ray Ruland, director of technology, presented results of a staff survey taken in December and showed how they compared to the results of a staff survey in August.

The survey asked staff, “Are you satisfied with the organization/school environment?” and “Do you feel appreciated for your efforts?” Responses were 1 - strongly agree, 2 - agree, 3 - disagree, 4 - strongly disagree.

Ruland said 153 staff members participated in the survey in August, and 106 answered the questions in December. For the December results, the percentage went up for those who either strongly agreed or agreed with the questions and went down for those who disagreed or strongly disagreed with the questions.

A third question in December asked staff, “Do you feel connected to your colleagues and team members?” The results showed 77.4% said yes and 22.6% said no.

After the meeting, Campbell said the results show the district is moving in the right direction, but the goal is for 100% of staff members to feel appreciated and valued. He said the district will continue working to improve in this area.

Campbell