For the benefit of our parents, families, staff, and community members who are unable to attend CPSD's monthly board meetings, this summary is provided for clarity and convenience.
Conway Public Schools
WAMPUS CAT PRIDE
KAIT SMITH
TOP 15 FINALISTS
FOR ARKANSAS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Our very own Kait Smith, CPSD District Teacher of the Year, was recognized at the Governor’s Mansion as one of the Top 15 Finalists for Arkansas Teacher of the Year!
We are so proud of Mrs. Smith and the way she represents Conway Public Schools with excellence, passion, and heart. Her dedication to students and commitment to learning continue to make a powerful impact—both in the classroom and across our district.
Way to go, Mrs. Smith!
Take a look at this spotlight on our CHS JROTC! This outstanding program is led by dedicated students and staff we are proud to call Wampus Cats. You can watch more features like this in our CPSD Video Series.
PATRON COMMENTS
Interim Superintendent's Report
Jason Black
Interim Superintendent
Strategic Planning Board Work Shop Update
CPSD Reading Forum Workshops
PD Palooza & Conway Employee Orientation
City Wide Safety Exercise
Back to School Teacher Fair and Convocation - Kaitlyn Ryals
First Day of School - Kaitlyn Ryals
Director of Safety Eric King
Action Items
Jason Black
Interim Superintendent
2025-2026 Strategic Plan - Dr. Jeff Standrige
Shasta Wagner
General Counsel
Joining Potential Social Media Harm Class Action - Mr. Jay Bequette
Information Items
Dr. Bryce Bennett
Assistant Superintendent
Student Academic Achievement Report (Act 425)
Strategic Reading Plan Development
CPSD Math & Special Education Planning Fall 2025
CPSD Reading Plan Update - Dr. Kathi Sweere
Sallie Cone Preschool - Heather Leavell
Shanda New
Director of Programs & Accountability
CPSD Teacher Supply Update
Preston Echols
Director of Student Services
Sam Carter-Scott
Behavioral Support Coordinator
CPSD Behavior Plan Overview
Dr. Karen Lasker
Interim Deputy Superintendent
HR Updates
Dr. Andy Ashley
Assistant Superintendent
Conway Junior High Facility &
Bob and Betty Courtway Middle School Facility Update
Shasta Wagner
General Council
Executive Session Laws
Dr. Kathi Sweere our district Reading Specialist presenting our CPSD Reading Plan.
Sallie Cone Preschool Supervisor Heather Leavell speaking about the effectiveness of our Preschool program Fueling Brains.
Shanda New, Director of Programs & Accountability updating us on teacher supply funds.
Ms. Carter Scott & Mr. Echols showcasing our CPSD Behavior Plan Overview.
Interim Deputy Superintendent Dr. Karen Lasker giving a HR update and starting the discussion on multiple year contracts for teachers!
Our General Council, Shasta Wagner educating us on executive session laws for our School Board Meetings.
Dr. Andy Ashley, Assistant Superintendent of Support Services and CJHS Principal Mr. Marquis Rogers giving an update about the progress of our Conway Junior High. The CJHS building was damaged by a broken water line on July 1st that flooded parts of the building which included 14 classrooms, hallways, and bathrooms. We are excited to announce, with the great help from ServPro, Nabholz Construction, CPSD Maintenance team, and the CPSD Technology team that the Conway Junior High school is READY FOR STUDENTS!!
Consent Agenda Items
Financial Report
Dr. Andy Ashley
Assistant Superintendent
Approval of:
Board Financial Report - July
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Future Meeting:
August 26, 2025 - Special Board Meeting, 6:30pm, Administration Building Board Room
September 9, 2025 - Board of Education Meeting, 6:00 p.m., Administration Building Board Room
Important Dates To Remember:
August 14, 2025 - District Wide Staff Convocation, Conway High School
Teacher Fair 7:00-9:00 a.m.
Convocation Program 9:00-11:00 a.m.
August 18, 2025 - First Day of School for Students
September 3, 2025 - School Board Budget Workshop, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Administration Building
September 18, 2025 - C.A.T. (Communication Accountability Transparency) Forum, 6:00 p.m., Conway High School
Complete Meeting Agendas and Minutes, as well as a schedule with date/times for School Board Meetings can be found on our website: conwayschools.org
School Board Recaps can be viewed on our website at: https://www.conwayschools.org/page/schoolboard
School Board meetings can be viewed live on our Conway Public Schools Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@conwaypublicschoolssocialm3021
Shout out to Pastor Gary Logan for providing some good BBQ for all attendees at the meeting! It was a good long meeting and the food couldn't have come at a better time! A big thank you from CPSD!