THANK YOU to our Partners in Education! Great meeting today! Keep West Memphis shining bright! #diamondofthedelta

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Blue Devils' Bennage state tennis champ

By Billy Woods

WM School District

West Memphis junior Carlson Bennage wasn't about to let the moment get away from him.

As Bennage was about to take on foreign exchange student Orest Los of Siloam Springs for the Class 6A state boys singles championship, he thought about last year when he faced off against Los in the state's consolation round.

"I was really confident this time because my game has taken a strong step forward since last year," said Bennage. "I'd watched (Los) play in his semifinal match and I knew my game was going to be good enough to get it done."

Bennage swept Los 6-3 and 6-1 last Tuesday to win the state title. He is thought to be the first-ever West Memphian to win the boys singles state championship.

It was an overall great day for the Blue Devil boys. The doubles team of Kaiden Holt and Wallace Crain won third place to give West Memphis enough points to be declared state runners-up.

"This is very satisfying because I'm not sure the West Memphis boys have ever finished runners-up in the state tournament before," said Blue Devil coach Kevin Holt. "Our guys played great tennis for two days."

Bennage lost to Los last year in the match for third place in the state tournament. This time, Bennage said, he wasn't going to let it happen again.

"I just had to keep calm because (Los) starts off strong," said Bennage. "He got off to an early 2-0 lead on me in the first set. I had to stay focused and start moving him around a little bit. I kept moving him from corner to corner and that allowed me to play a lot more aggressive."

Turns out, Bennage wasn't even tested through the entire bracket. As the 6A-East Conference champion he was given a first-round bye. He then easily dispatched Searcy's Davis Threlkeld 6-0 and 6-2 before defeating David Woodring of Greenwood 6-3 and 6-4 in the semifinals.

As Bennage alluded to, his game went to another level from last season. He noted the tutelage of both his long-time personal coach Bob Spillman from the University Club in Memphis and Holt, who has put in long hours with the entire team in anticipation of his boys getting a shot at winning the team state title.

Another factor was Bennage's growth spurt, from 5-foot-6 a year ago to 5-10 this year.

"I was actually pretty confident coming into this year," said Bennage. "Both my coaches have done wonders for my game, so I gotta give it up to them. My shots have been more accurate and more powerful this year because I've grown a few inches."

Now Bennage advances to today's Overall state tournament. The top two finishers in each classification advance to the Overall. As of press time, Bennage's seeding was not yet known.

"No matter how I do (in the Overall), I'm just honored to be there," Bennage added.

Kaiden Holt and Crain put up a strong run for the doubles title. They outlasted Casey Hammons and Tanner Leonard of Searcy in the quarterfinals 4-6, 6-4 and 6-3. In the semifinals, the West Memphians lost to Evan Hurt and Jonathan Barber of Jonesboro 3-6, 6-3 and 6-4.

In the consolation bracket, Holt and Crain defeated Dillon Rea and Matthew Kelly of Searcy 8-4.

"I'm very proud of Kaiden and Wallace," said Coach Holt. "They both played great the week before at the conference tournament. The good thing about is these guys have gotten so much better every year. That speaks volumes about their progress."

OURschools - New Release

West Memphis School District is excited to publish our second issue of OURschools.  

We hope you enjoy this edition and share in the pride we have in our schools!

You can access this edition, as well as, previous editions at this link.  Editions are in order from left to right as released.

http://www.wmsd.net/ourschools

You can access the October 2017 edition directly with the link below.

https://goo.gl/W63djM

GO BLUE DEVILS !!!

Photo by Billy Woods

Blue Devil band nets awards

The West Memphis High School marching band recently bagged several awards and two different marching competitions. The Blue Devils won Outstanding Band of the Day at the Spacity Marching Competition in Hot Springs last Tuesday night. They were also a first division band. Also at the Mid-South Classic in Jonesboro last Saturday, they were selected as a first division band, drum majors, flags and percussion as well as second place in the division band, percussion and drum majors. The band was in sixth place overall with some very big bands.

Nationally renowned vocal group to perform at PAC

Voctave, a nationally renowned vocal group and YouTube sensation will present a night of acapella  Broadway and Disney tunes on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. at the West Memphis High School Performing Arts Center.
West Memphis' vocal arts director Doug Conwill raves about the group.
"Voctave is without a doubt the best singing group I've ever heard," he said. "They have a half-million followers on YouTube and 250,000 followers on Facebook. I've never heard a group this good."
Voctave is a regular performer at Disney World. The group, in fact, hails from Orlando, Fla.
Tickets for the show are $15 and are available by calling the WMHS vocal arts office at 732-8558.
"People have called me for tickets from as far away as Atlanta, Jackson, Miss., and Tupelo, Miss.," said Conwill. "People have called me every day for tickets. We will probably sell about 100 out-of-town tickets."

Annual showcase set for WMHS choir

The West Memphis High School vocal arts program will present its first-annual vocal showcase on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. at the school's Performing Arts Center.
Admission is $3

Collins named top state superintendent

By Billy Woods

WM School District

West Memphis' Jon Collins has been named Arkansas Schools Superintendent of the Year.

Buoyed by a new charter in his second year on the job in 2014 and this year an expansive new construction plan for several schools, Collins was recognized by state administrators at a surprise meeting on Tuesday night.

Dr. Richard Abernathy, Executive Director for the Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators, surprised Collins before the start of Tuesday night's regular school board meeting. Several former and current superintendents in Arkansas were there for the presentation.

"I've watched Jon Collins for several years and he's done a remarkable job for West Memphis and its kids," said Abernathy. "The career technical programs at the high school strengthens that school. His facilities program has been very impressive. His predecessor, Mr. Kessinger, I think the world of him and I think Jon's just taken West Memphis to the next level."

The American Association of School Administrators Superintendent of the Year program, sponsored by ARAMARK Education, pays tribute to the talent and vision of the men and women who lead the nation's public schools. Candidataes are judged on the following criteria: leadership for learning, communication, professionalism and community involvement.

The West Memphis School District has a long history of serving as the cornerstone educational provider in the heart of the Mississippi River Delta region. WMSD is the largest employer in Crittenden County and the 14th largest school district in the state, serving approximately 5,600 students through 11 campuses.

Collins, who succeeded Kessinger in 2013, led the district's approval for the first conversion charter school in state history to partner a high school with a community college (ASU-Mid-South).

Collins' goal as superintendent is clearly described on his desk.

"Instead of a desk plate with my name on it, I prefer to display one with two words: Students first," Collins said. "Students first has been my battle cry since July 1, 2013 when I assumed the role of Superintendent of Schools of the West Memphis School District."

Collins has been a member of AAEA since 2001 and is involved in other community and professional organizations. He has received numerous honors and awards related to his work as a school administrator.

Collins is a 1989 graduate of West Memphis High School. His educational background includes dean of students at WMHS, Middle School principal at Harrisburg, West Junior High principal and WMHS principal.

Ribbon cutting at Weaver

The elaborate make-over at Weaver Elementary was officially celebrated on Monday with a ribbon cutting among other activities. On hand for the event were principal Shelia Grissom, West Memphis superintendent Jon Collins, assistant superintendent Terri McCann, state reps Milton Nicks and Deborah Ferguson as well as school board members. After the formalities, the visitors were treated to a mini concert by the Weaver choir and the visitors were allowed to tour the new facilities.

BLUE DEVILS GO GREEN ENERGY Efficiency Rebate for new Bragg Elementary: $24,900 and more on the way! THANK YOU to CenterPoint Energy, ETFC Architects, and WMSD Facilities Director, Clint Byard for making these funds possible. From left: Kirk Pierce (CPE), Jim Robb (WMSD), Diana Nicks (CPE), Clint Byard (WMSD), Jon Collins (WMSD)

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WMSD STAFF: 2018 HEALTH INSURANCE is available on www.wmsd.net/staff Wellness Discount Deadline 10/31/2017 Open Enrollment Oct. 1-31, 2017

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ALL After School activities including games, practices, tutoring, etc.) have been CANCELLED today, Thursday 8/31/2017 Applies to all WMSD campuses

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A New Face Join us as we celebrate our new look Weaver Elementary School 1280 East Barton Street West Memphis, Arkansas Monday, September 11, 2017 4 o’clock in the afternoon A New Journey

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Support Blue Devil Athletics and enjoy steak dinner for ONLY $10! Friday 9/8/17

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New West coach to have number retired

By Billy Woods

WM School District

New West Junior High football Clifton Davis III brings quite a resume to West Memphis, both coaching and playing. But his biggest honor will be Oct. 7 when his high school retires his number.

Davis will have his No. 19 retired on Oct. 7 at North Panola (Miss.), where he set three national records as a quarterback from 1988-91.

"It's a big honor," said Davis. "It was a fun high school career.

When Davis closed out his high school career he was the all-time national leader in passing yards with 9,309 and with 104 touchdown passes. Both of those records have since been broken. But Davis still holds the national high school record for throwing 10 touchdowns in a single game, which came in a 96-0 North Panola victory over Coldwater, Miss.

Davis' father, Clifton Jr., was the North Panola head coach.

"The first game that season I threw 8 touchdowns against Holly Springs and I came out of the game in the third quarter," Davis recalled. "We beat them 70-0. I got up the next morning and read where the (Jackson) Clarion Ledger named me Player of the Week. They mentioned I was one touchdown away from tying a national record for TD passes in a game. My Dad told me if we got another chance that season that we were going to go for (the record). We had the stars aligned and kind of had the perfect storm.

When asked if he expects his 10 touchdown passes to remain a while he replied, "You never know with the way people throw the ball these days. There are spread offenses out there where they're throwing every down. I played when throwing the football wasn't as in vogue as it is today. I was never in the shotgun. I was always under center. I just wonder now what I could have done in a spread and throwing out of the shotgun."

Davis went on to play one year at the University of Memphis under Chuck Stobart when the Tigers had receivers Isaac Bruce and Russell Copeland, quarterback Steve Matthews and linebacker Danton Barto in 1993.

After being a high school head coach for many years in Mississippi, Davis said he's excited to be in West Memphis.

"It's been real fun so far here," he said. "Things have been going good here so far and I'm hoping we can have a nice run."

Davis' son, eighth-grader Cameron, is a rising standout quarterback. Cameron was selected to the USA 14-and-under national team. He already stands 6-feet and 185 pounds.

"(Cameron) can spin it," said Davis. "I've been training him since he was six."

Anticipated first-day at brand new Bragg

By Billy Woods

WM School District

Cassie Adams will have you know she's not a morning person.

As much as that works against her nature as an elementary school principal, Adams pushes the "go" button quite well.

Monday was the first day of school and as usual she was too excited to sleep the night before.

"This is my 10th year in education and I literally can't sleep the night before the first day of school," Adams said. "It's just the little jitters of excitement."

But this was no normal first day of school.

The new Bragg had been unveiled to the public a week earlier, but the brand new 72,000 square foot state-of-the-art structure housed its first students on an historic day in the West Memphis School District.

"We've waited a long time for this moment, and it's kind of surreal now that it's here," Adams with with a smile. "It's been a whirlwind trying to get everything together for the first day and the students. But we've been ready and we're so blessed."

Normally, Adams said she arrives at school at 7 a.m. But on Monday she arrived at Bragg at 6:40 a.m. along with her son, Mason, a seventh-grader at West Junior High.

"He was also excited about the first day at Bragg and he told me he wanted to come help me get started," Adams added.

As you might expect there were a lot of questions to be answered on the first day at a brand new building.

"Direction Day," is what Adams called it.

Plenty of parents and students had to be directed to their children's beautiful new classrooms. The first thing to hit them, however, upon walking through the spacious grand entry hall was the smell.

"Yep, it's got that 'new' smell to it," one parent stated. "Kind of like that great smell of a new car. No mistaking it."

After Adams welcomed all the students and it was time to begin classes at 8:15 a.m., the principal visited every classroom and asked each one the same question.

"How do y'all like your new rooms?" Adams asked.

Each answer was a resounding "Awesome!"

One historic school day down, 177 more to go.

AWM hits cutting edge with cyber security program

By Billy Woods

You can add another new direction for students at the Academies of West Memphis to pursue in order to be career-ready as soon as they walk off the stage at their graduation.

AWM has been selected to be the lead school to pilot the Cybersecurity pathway for the Arkansas Department of Career Education. Students will have the opportunity to learn about programming, networking and cybersecurity during this three-year pathway.

Students will be offered courses that introduce cybersecurity concepts and hands-on practice as well as career opportunities in Information Technology. Students will also learn about cybersecurity concepts, the fundamental principles of networking systems, network infrastructure and network security and be able to demonstrate how to implement various aspects of security within a networking system.

Cybersecurity is just the latest addition to AWM's charter format which continues its pioneer journey toward more effective education for all students. In addition tol preparing students after graduation with pathways that include Associates Degree, Bachelors Degree, Aviation and Airframe Mechanics, Diesel Mechanics, Hospitality and Entertainment, Healthcare and more.

"In seeking other avenues for our students within our career-ready concept, we began looking at the technology standpoint," said AWM principal Gary Jackson. "We started looking at cybersecurity. With the cell phones, I-pads and all the technology that crosses over into industry...looking at the cyber attacks that have been going on, we started having conversations about cybersecurity."

Jackson and West Memphis School Superintendent Jon Collins attended the Northeast Arkansas Masters Conference for administrators. The main speaker, Kathy Turner, met with Collins and Jackson about adding cybersecurity to the AWM curriculum.

"Kathy sent us some information that said by the year 2019 there will be one million jobs in cybersecurity across the country," Jackson added. "We'll be offering sophomores an introduction to the infrastructure. Our kids will learn what an attack looks like and how to detect something suspicious. Our kids will have an advantage when they get out into the workforce with this three-year plan."

The combination of skills gained in this program will be attractive to many employers in the area and abroad. Across the nation at this time there are 40,000 unfilled jobs calling for students to have this type of training.

Salaries in the industry range from $35,000 to $85,000 a year. The pathway will recruit digital learners that want to explore, learn and achieve in this career field.

Jackson said his school has begun talks to partner with Arkansas Tech University, ASU-Mid-South and the University of Memphis.

"So, if any of our kids want to go on post high-school graduation and further their skills it would open up more opportunities for them," said Jackson.

The cybersecurity classes began with the fall semester of 2017. Gerry Wartenberg and Vicki Buck teach the classes.

"When we started our journey through this avenue we all attended a workshop in Washington, D.C., and we got to visit with the guy who is head of cybersecurity for the White House," Jackson said. "The thing that really shook us at that time was he told us in one year there were 40,000 new jobs in this area in the Virginia region, tied into the government. He told us that if a kid got out of high school with three years of this type of training he could get hired on the spot. Just think about how that sounds. You can graduate high school, have zero debt and start a career."

Cybersecurity isn't the only new addition to the AWM charter.

Supply chain management was also recently added. In this program, students will study and gain basic understanding of global logisitics and supply chain technology, transportation systems, communication skills and customer service skills.

Students will gain knowledge regarding the impact of forecasting on supply, manufacturing and purchasing from point of origin to consumer. The multitude of career opportunities within this pathway will be explored. Exposure to industry site visits as well as warehouse, distribution center and retain space will be provided to the students of the program.

The supply chain pathway will allow students to create stages, which includes suppliers, producers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers.

"From our standpoint, when we're looking at our students, we're looking at restructuring what we're offering our kids," Jackson stated. "We're also offering soft skills classes, where kids will learn to prepare resumes and learn to speak to someone when they go for a job interview. They will also learn how to dress and do research on the firm they want to work for. It's just a class on how to sell themselves and present themselves when entering the workforce.

"We're also offering a social media class and within the next five years we're hoping to partner with a drone program, where our kids will learn to fly drones within the shipping industry. The drones will allow companies to do inventory in one day as opposed to a human being taking a few days to do it."

Billy Woods <bwoods@wmsd.net>

Aug 7 (3 days ago)

Bragg dedication a blast!

By Billy Woods

WM School District

The West Memphis School District started the 2017-18 school year with a detonation loud enough to be heard in Central Arkansas.

Teachers and administrators reported for work on Thursday with a flurry of activity that lured the State Department of Education's commissioner. Most notable, however, and with much anticipation, was the formal dedication of a new Bragg Elementary that also brought out local and other state dignitaries.

The brand new 72,000 square-foot Bragg will open for classes on Aug. 14.

Amidst a group that included architects, construction workers, West Memphis mayor Bill Johnson, state senator Keith Ingram, school board members, state reps Milton Nicks and Deborah Ferguson, superintendent Jon Collins and State Department of Education Commissioner Johnny Key, the ribbon was cut on the state-of-the-art facility which will include enormous space for offices, classrooms and a gymnasium.

Key, who earlier in the day addressed the district's teachers, said he wanted to come to West Memphis to see the final products, not only at Bragg, but at four other schools which underwent major construction renovations.

"Not long after I was named commissioner I wanted to know where the good stories were in education in Arkansas," said Key. "It didn't take long for West Memphis to jump off the page. Sometimes it's the big things, sometimes it's the little things. I'd say today is a big thing. I am so impressed particularly with the (Bragg) library with the outdoor reading area. Schools shouldn't be about locking kids in a room. Give them a great experience. This whole building looks like it's going to be a great experience for the Bragg students."

After the ribbon cutting, hundreds who came out for the dedication were invited to tour the facility.

Key, along with Ingram, toured Faulk and Richland elementaries before landing at Bragg.

"It looks like y'all are on the move in West Memphis," Key said with a smile.

"When we noticed what was happening here a year or so ago, we wanted to send our (State Department of Education) video crew here to do a video on your partnership with FedEx and ASU-Mid-South," Key added. "It's up on Youtube and it just tells a marvelous story about what's going on here. Now, with all the renovation and construction it's just further proof that things are moving along pretty swiftly in West Memphis."

The completion of the renovations at Faulk, Richland, Weaver Elementary, Maddux Elementary and the Academies of West Memphis is the end of Phase I was the WMSD's multi-phase renovation plan to upgrade facilities.

Ribbon Cutting for New Bragg Elementary. THANK YOU to all who helped make it happen. Great day to be a BLUE DEVIL!!!

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Commissioner Key delivers inspiring words to WMSD Teachers!!!

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THANK YOU ACE! Kathy Turner w/ AR Career & Tech Ed

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2017-2018 - Health Insurance Wellness Discount Requirements for WMSD Employees

REMINDER to all WMSD Employees with Health Insurance through WMSD:
Complete Wellness Survey and Physician Visit to ensure discount on premiums.

WELLNESS DISCOUNT INFORMATION  
http://portal.arbenefits.org/Pages/ARBenefitsWell.aspx(ALL visits and surveys MUST be complete by 10/31/2017 to receive discount)

Anyone needing assistance logging into GuidanceResources® or completing the Health Assessment ("HA" or aka "Wellness Survey") can contact GuidanceResources® at 1-877-247-4621.

Instructions for logging into GuidanceResources®: http://portal.arbenefits.org/newsDocuments/20150313News_HealthAssessment.pdf 

Almost there... Bragg Elementary

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Almost there... Richland Elementary

Ready to Go... Maddux Elementary

Almost there... Weaver Elementary

5/20/17 5:40pm : NOTICE: Tonight's graduation ceremony will be held indoors in Lehr Arena.

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GRADUATION to be held in Lehr Arena

5/20/17 5:40pm :

NOTICE: Tonight's graduation ceremony will be held indoors in Lehr Arena.  

 

AWM lauds 2017 honor grads

By Billy Woods

WM School District

Thirty-seven Academies of West Memphis seniors were recently lauded at the school's annual Academic Honors Banquet.

Valedictorians for the 357-member 2017 graduating AWM class are Joshua Foster, John Haney, Allison Nanney and Austin Sudbury. The salutatorians are Kyrus Rodgers and Jason Scott.

Other honor students include Mason Arnett, Triston Banks, Tatyana Barber, Luci Blanenship, Brittany Branstetter, Jarod Brown, Tykira Bullins, Ellie Busby, Teasia Carter, Rylee Elmore, Morgan Gardner, Shanel Gray, Michael Hinson, Raven Hinton, Madison Holmes, Ervin Jeffries, Parker Jennings, John David Kemp, Byron Kirkland, Jamea Macklin, Jaterria McClure, Norris Perry, Eva Pouncey, Kayla Robinson, Mason Smith, Rileigh Smith, Zakiah Smith, Hayden Spears, Kentarious Stewart, Lara Tarr, Jasmine Thomas, Amari Turner, Laylaa Watkins, Takiyah Wesley, Madilyn Wilkerson, Kecia Williams and Riley Young.

The evening was coordinated by AWM senior guidance counselor LaTarsha Johnson and the meal was catered by Melissa's Classic Catering. The closing speech was an inspiring message from AWM principal Gary Jackson.

AWM graduates 357 on Friday night

By Billy Woods

WM School District

The Academies of West Memphis will hold graduation exercises for 351 seniors Friday at 7 p.m. at Hamilton-Shultz Field.

Four valedictorians have been named including Joshua Foster, John Haney, Austin Sudbury and Allison Nanney. Salutatorians will be Kyrus Rodgers and Jason Scott.

Other honor graduates include Lara Tarr, Riley Young, Jamea Macklin, Hayden Spears, Michael Hinson, Ervin Jeffries, Tykira Bullins, Zakiah Smith, Luci Blankenship, Brittney Branstetter, Rileigh Smith, Jasmine Thomas, Mason Arnett, Madison Holmes, Shanel Gray, Madilyn Wilkerson, Morgan Gardner, Ellie Busby, Triston Banks, Byron Kirkland, Takiyah Wesley, Raven Hinton, Kentarious Stewart, Mason Smith, Parker Jennings, Jarod Brown, Norris Perry, John David Kemp, Kayla Robinson, Tatyana Barber, Amari Turner, Eva Marie Pouncey, Jaterria McClure, Teasia Carter, Laylaa Watkins, Rylee Elmore and Kecia Williams.

Other graduates include Makyah Aldridge, Kentrell Allen, Sadarius Allen, John Allman, Thomassio Alsbrook, Dakota Altman, Kelvick Anderson, Kierra Anderson, Aijia Armstrong, Jacob Armstrong, Taneia Bailey, Kylan Ball, Joseph Barker, Javeon Barlow, Naikyriel Barrett-Brolwn, Katelyn Barton, Yakemeia Bates, Chauncey Bedford, Jakarmeney Bedford, Jackson Beech, Kierra Bell, Pierre Bell, Alesha Blakely, Christopher Blakely, Melanie Blakely, Nytoria Boatwright, Lamount Bohanon, Devontae Boldien and Keondriya Bowers.

Paige Bowser, LaKendra Bradley, Tyree Bridges, Dynitria Brisbon, Jekala Brisbon, Kayla Brock, Abrion Brown, Adarius Brown, Andre Brown, Devon Brown, Gregory Brown, Jamika Brown, Jarod Brown, Johnny Brown, Michael Brown, Monquerius Brown, Natasha Brown, Terrence Brown, Xavier Brown, Brittani Burnett, Brianna Burns, Kanya Burns, Ellie Busby, Tony Butler, Victoria Butler, Bryton Byrd, Camron Byrd, Cornecia Calloway, Xakyia Calloway and Richard Campbell.

Aundrea Carter, Ermisha Carter, Robert Ceaser, Jakiya Childs, Brianna Christian, Nebress Clark, Aasha Clay, Demarree Cleveland, Precious Colbert, Anterius Coleman, Arlend Collier, Ke'darrius Collins, Kevin Collins, Trenton Conlee, Robin Conley, Jonathan Craig, Johnny Craig, Joshua Craig, Taylor Crayton, Justin Cummins, Haylee Daniels, Devontae Dean, Demarco Dear, Chacara Dent, Tierra Dent, Marquis Donnerson, Brandon Dorsey, Jamerun Dudley, Montarious Dyson, Danny Ealy, Arneshia Earvin, Jack Edwards and Jerry Edwards.

Ceola Ellis, Lamiracle Ellis, Rylee Elmore, Tristian Estes, Michael Eulls, Allison Evans, Rebecca Evans, Caleb Ewing, Rayla Fair, Zachary Felton, Aerial Fletcher, Jala Fletcher, Bobby Flippo, Auston Force, Demareo Foster, Carolyn Fuller, Javen Fuqua, Kendiro Fuqua, Jaiden Gage, Paulette Gaines, Michael Garcia, Tobie Gardner, Mason Garner, Ronnie Gatewood, Anthony Gilmer, Kaylon Gilmer, Brien Glasper, Deondria Gordon, Wade Gordon, Taylor Gore, Braxton Granger, Dequarius Granger, Shanel Gray, Katelyn Green, Travon Green, Andrew Griffin and Ethan Griffin.

Margarito Gudino, Savannah Haley, Rayshaad Hall, Kaebriel Hamilton, Sharianna Harden, Terry Harper, Christopher Harrison, Dareon Hayes, Trenarius Henry, Kristasia Hernandez, Anquanette Higgs, Raven Hinton, Fa'tina Hoard, Ladaysha Hodge, Reaghan Holcombe, Frank Holliman, Tara Holt, Allyson Hoover, Raymond Howard, Damorious Hudson, Margaret Humble, Nikya Hutchinson, Karmen Ingram, Aniijala Jackson, Ladarrius Jackson, Darinae Jamar, Takayla Jeffries, Abigail Jeter, Emiyah Johnson, Erica Johnson, Kiwon Johnson, Mikell Johnson and Taylor Johnson.

Antoinette Jones, Denarious Jones, Jade Jones, Tyler Jones, Malik Jordan, Kelli Kelley, D'Cameron King, David Kohl, Merrie Lancaster, Justin Lantz, Nakelya Larkin, Mitchell Lawson, Chanteria Lee, William Lennox, Jazmine Lewis, Latia Lewis, Essynce Lockhart, Dumaurier Looney, Corteria Lotts, Quaverius Lyons, Lillie Mangum, Cory Marrs, Karneshia Martin, Eric Mastrofrancesco,

Rabecca McCleary, Courtney McFarland, Toneshia McKenzie, Javien McLaurin, Latrice McQuin, Printis Merritt, Rehgan Merritt and Destiny Milam.

Jaden Miller, Keeaubre Miller, Dymond Miree, Marquaris Mondy, Corey Mooney, Shaquelea Moore, Deroyia Morris, Jade Morris, Joshua Mosier and Anthony Mosley.

Devin Mosley, Tevin Mosley, Tiffany Mosley, Mya Moten, Cleara Motley, Monterika Motley, Shawn Murphy, Johnathan Murray, Chaqundria Myers, Kameshia Nevills, Brandon Nichols, Alyssa Norman, Celyn Osterbrink, Jeremie paige, Keira Paige, Anthony Patterson, Kerrick Paxton, Anthony Perkins, Paris Perkins, Donald Perry, Jah'tease Perry, Marisa Perry, Norris Perry, Tekoya Peterson, Kametrius Pigram, Morgan Pirani, Shakendra Poney and Dezarae Prackett.

Martize Price, Selena Ramirez, Brenda Randle, Heidi Register, Erin Riley, Ted Roberson, Miracle Roberts, Prince Roberts, Jason Robinson, Kayla Robinson, Rodney Robinson, Sankadra Robinson, Tyquirious Robinson, Destinie Robinson, Ebony Robinson, Tearaney Rodgers, Jatierney Rogers, Adara Russell, Melvin Saddler, Darenique Sanders, Desieraye Sanders, Richard Santana, Azaria Scott, Essence Selph, Alexus Shell, Mercedes Shell, Jayla Shephard, Dylan Shepherd, Tyesha Simmons, Alexis Sims and Charlene Smith.

Kanisha Smith, Quintoria Smith, Decameron Smothers, Alexis Stackhouse, Jazelle Stephens, Davon Steward, Kentarious Stewart, Jaquez Stinnett, Wanya Strickland, Antonio Strong, Demitrius Sturghill, Jalan Taylor, Denisha Thomas, Jasmine Thomas, Martavis Thomas, Cortavius Thompson, Kyren Todd, Antwan Toliver, Masyia Trotter, Dekeyla Troup, Ronekia Troup, Jakerria Tucker, Erin Turner, Imajia Turner and Xavier Tyler.

Malikah Walker, Randle Walker, Krystal Ward, Dareyon Wardlow, Dewayne Warren, Sonny Warren, Takyia Warren, Burtrayvion Washington, Tamara Washington, Tia Washington, Kenaiza Watkins, Jazmine Watson, Traveshea Weatherspoon, Carnell White, Christopher White, Rashad White, Daneshia Whiting, Dakia Whittier, Madilyn Wilkerson, Henry Williams, Joshua Williams, Joshua Williams, Keara Williams, Kecia Williams, Kevisha Williams, Markquarius Williams, Malcolm Wilson, Anna Winter, Peyton Wise, Edward Woods, Jarvis Woods, Quince Woods, Emily Wooldridge, Cody Wordlaw and Kendarius Wright.

West Junior High's Tennison stands out in foreign language

Andrea Tennison of West Memphis took home 3rd place Level 1 in extemporaneous speaking and in vocabulary categories in the high school state Spanish competition held at Harding University in Searcy, AR on Saturday, April 1st. She competed in the Heritage division against all high schools throughout the state. Andrea is currently a ninth grade student at West Junior High.

AWM inducts 23 into Beta Club

By Billy Woods

WM School District

Twenty-three students were recently inducted into the Academies of West Memphis Beta Club.

The induction ceremony was presided over by the 2016-17 officers that included president Joshua Foster, vice president Jason Scott, secretary Allison Nanney and treasurer John Haney. Also present were junior representative Dawson Mathis, senior reps Byron Kirkland, Jamea Macklin and Zakiah Smith and sophomore rep Michael Skjefte.

The inductees were also addressed by AWM principal Gary Jackson and there was a charge to the new new members as well as a pledge.

The new inductees included Carlson Bennage, Makeyah Braden, Wallace Crain, Mikyah Dolnnerson, Bradley Flippo, Malia Gillum, Jordyn Haney, Olivia Harrison, Molly Henson, Boogie Jackson, Jada Jenkins, Mary Anna Merideth, Lee Pouncey, Trevor Pulliam, Michael Skjefte, Mercedes Young, Morgan Albers, Armesha Ross, Micah Smith, Amarius Stinnett, Chauncey Bedford, Teasia Carter and Rileigh Smith.
Senior sponsor for the Beta Club is Charles Foster, the junior sponsor is Asha Foster and the sophomore sponsors are Janet Laye and Melissa Hutton.

AWM artists cop state-wide honors

By Billy Woods

WM School District

The Academies of West Memphis art program has some of the finest talent in Arkansas as evidenced by a most recent state competition.

Senior Chris Blakely won first place in mixed media in the AR Congressional Art competition that was hosted by Congressman Rick Crawford. Also, sophomore Michael Latham was a finalist in painting in the same competition.

AWM art teacher Roxane Lee praised the two winning students.

"Chris and Michael are two of our standout art students," said Lee. "I've taught Chris three years. It's quite an honor to win first place in the state of Arkansas. His artwork is so realistic and it seems like he just stands out in most anything he does. He's an all-around great kid.

"Michael is a wonderful painter. Being a finalist and only a sophomore, says a lot for Michael. He has a natural ability to paint. He loves water color, but he's great with acrylic, too. I can see him just getting better and better."

Blakely's works were entitled Inward Inhabitants and Puzzled Curiosity. Latham's work was entitled Serenity.

Both students want to pursue artwork as a profession.

Blakey said he hasn't yet made up his mind where he will attend college, but it mostly likely will be in Memphis. He has interest in the University of Memphis or Memphis College of Art, majoring in either illustration or graphic design.

Blakely's interest in art dates back to six years of age.

His specialty is realism.

"I try to see my subject as real as possible," he said. "I try to use abstract components and other hidden components to try to show through the realism with a little bit of abstract."

Latham said he one day hopes to own a store and sell his own paintings.

"I love to paint," Latham said. "I really don't remember when my interest in painting started. It just seems like I've always been doing it. Practicing is something I also really enjoy. "

Both students say Lee and the art department at the Academies of West Memphis have been instrumental in developing their skills.

"(Lee) always challenges us and she has this way of communicating with each of us," said Blakely.

Rotary/Delta Arts honor West Memphis students

By Billy Woods

WM School District

The West Memphis Rotary Club recently had its first-annual Student 4-Way Test Awards event at the the DeltaARTS Glen P. Schoettle Arts Education Center.

One student from each West Memphis school was honored for emodying and reflecting the ethical elements of the Rotary 4-Way Test.

Students selected included:

--- James Perkins, sixth-grader at Richland Elementary. Perkins was selected because he possesses a heartfelt desire to give to others and has demonstrated maturity beyond his years.

--- Emma Fraley, ninth-grader at West Junior High. Fraley is committed to the enhancement of her school, participating in many school projects.

--- Abigail Pahls, sixth-grader at St. Michael's Catholic School. Pahls was selected because of her thoughtfulness, generosity and kind-hearted spirit.

--- Dylan Michelle Dodd, sixth-grader at Bragg Elementary. Dodd was selected because she shows empathy toward others and is especially attentive to new students who come to Bragg.

--- Bryce Waller, 11th-grader at West Memphis Christian School. Waller is great at problem solving and his motto is to stay calm in every situation.

--- Atesia Gordon, ninth-grader at East Junior High. As a student office worker at East, Alesia understands the importance of first impressions and greets everyone with a smile and positive attitude.

--- Laniya Brown, fourth-grader at Wonder Elementary. Brown received the STAR student award at her school and was the unanimous choice from the committee.

--- Raven Hinton, senior at the Academies of West Memphis. Hinton is an excellent student, but more than that she goes above and beyond in seeking ways to serve others.

--- Azariah Jones, fifth-grader at Maddux Elementary. Jones was selected because she has distinguished herself as bright, inquisitive and energetic along with being a phenomenal team player and group worker.

--- Nyan Ganus, sixth-grader at Faulk Elementary. Positive and enthusiastic, Ganus is an ambassador for his school in so many ways and welcomes guests to the school as well as building friendships with new students.

--- Da'Liya Anderson, sixth-grader at L.R. Jackson Elementary. Anderson has outstanding leadership characteristics, including integrity, authenticity and excellent communication skills.

--- Gavin Knowlton, pre-schooler at Steudlein Learning Academy. Knowlton walks through the doors each day with a smile on his face and a story to share.

--- Steve Spencer, ninth-grader at Wonder Junior High. Spencer shows outstanding character and is well-mannered and polite.

--- Jamar Hollins, third-grader at Weaver Elementary. Hollins is called the "turnaround kid" as he began the year with a less than happy attitude, but the staff at Weaver say his outlook is like night and day from the beginning of school to the present.

Bragg Elementary: Class in Session August 2017!

    

WMSD construction getting closer to completion

By Billy Woods

WM School District

New construction is happening at many schools in the West Memphis School District and the completion dates are very near.

Eight of the 11 schools in West Memphis are undergoing major construction projects and all appear to be on schedule for completion soon.

The crown jewel of the major project is Bragg Elementary, which will get an entire brand new building on time for the start of classes in August of this year. The whole project is expected to be completed by July 1.

"Our contractor is expected to turn over the building to us by the end of June," said Clint Byard, director of facilities for the WMSD. "By June 1 we have to have Bragg's cafeteria building completely emptied and have the current building ready for demolition."

The July date of completion will give administration and faculty time to get moved in by the start of the 2017 fall semester.

The wealth of construction in the school district keeps Byard on the move.

"I run every day," he said with a smile. "Before 9 o'clock in the morning I've usually been at every site. On Mondays I speak with the job superintendents to see how the weekend went. It's constant communication between the general contractors and myself."

The construction projects include a completed cafeteria addition at Faulk, which opened just before Christmas 2016 and electrical renovations at Faulk, Richland Elementary, the Academies of West Memphis, Weaver Elementary and Maddux Elementary.

Other projects include an interior renovation of 39,000 square feet at Maddux with a new fire sprinkler system, new fire alarm system, new intercom system, new suspended ceiling system, new LED lighting, new LVT flooring in the hallways, a new cafeteria, a new gymnasium, new room for the choral program and new room for the art program.

At Weaver, there is a new construction of a 6,000 square foot gymnasium with the same synthetic floor as Maddux and a new construction of 10,000 square feet art and music rooms along with a new administration area and kitchen expansion.

At Richland, there is a new gymnasium, art and music buildings as well as 10,000 square feet of space for special education class rooms along with a new administration area and kitchen addition.

Also at Faulk, there is an 8,000 square foot gymnasium and music building as well as renovation of the existing library into new administration offices and renovation of the existing offices to instruction support spaces.

At Jackson and Wonder elementaries, a new campus site is waiting on approval for state funds in May.

"All of our projects are right on schedule," Byard added. "We're looking at all  of these to be 14-16-month projects. Maddux ran ahead of schedule and is already completed."

Weaver's project is set for completion for July 30. Richland's completion date is set for Sept. 1 of this year and the rest of the Faulk project has a completion date of Jun1, 2018.

Back to Bragg Elementary: Byard said the demolition of the current Bragg building will take approximately two weeks. The space will then be used as a parking lot, which is expected to be completed by the first part of September.

In the interim, teachers and parents will have to use street parking for a couple weeks.

"We didn't give ourselves a lot of grace time because maintenance-wise we've invested a lot into the building, we've put in LBT flooring...basically no wax, so there's no stripping, no wax from this point on. It's going to save us on that continuing maintenance operation cost every summer. And it's going to allow us to move into the building immediately."

Without LBT flooring, ti would take "us a month in a building of that size to strip and wax."

The ordering of furniture for the new Bragg has already taken place. All of the classrooms for students and offices for administrators, faculty and nurses will be brand new.

Groundbreaking for the new school was in mid-April of 2016 and the ceremony included West Memphis mayor Bill Johnson, superintendent Jon Collins, state senator Keith Ingram and state reps Deborah Ferguson and Milton Nicks.

Both Collins and Ladd Garey of the architectural firm of ETFC/Garey, are Bragg alums, and as you might expect the new school takes on new meaning.