Tuesday at the SEARK Co-op was filled with powerful learning experiences across the board!
Our halls were buzzing with educators diving deep into training and development opportunities, including:
🧠 Take Flight Dyslexia Therapist Training – Year One
📘 RISE Day 6
🔬 Arguing from Evidence – Science
📚 Arkansas Teen Book Award
🎓 Beginning Teacher Institute
💻 Coding with Python and the Circuit Playground
It’s always a joy to see passionate professionals investing in their growth—and in turn, their students’ futures.
📌 Want to join the learning?
👉 Check out all our summer PD sessions here: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Our halls were buzzing with educators diving deep into training and development opportunities, including:
🧠 Take Flight Dyslexia Therapist Training – Year One
📘 RISE Day 6
🔬 Arguing from Evidence – Science
📚 Arkansas Teen Book Award
🎓 Beginning Teacher Institute
💻 Coding with Python and the Circuit Playground
It’s always a joy to see passionate professionals investing in their growth—and in turn, their students’ futures.
📌 Want to join the learning?
👉 Check out all our summer PD sessions here: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
🚨 Planned escWorks® Outage🚨
Friday, July 25 at 5:00 PM through Sunday, July 27 at 5:00 PM
Region 4 will be upgrading technology by focusing on infrastructure, with application updates coming later. Notifications will be sent at the start of the maintenance window and again once all systems are fully restored. During this time, all escWorks® customer-facing links and pages will be temporarily unavailable.
Friday, July 25 at 5:00 PM through Sunday, July 27 at 5:00 PM
Region 4 will be upgrading technology by focusing on infrastructure, with application updates coming later. Notifications will be sent at the start of the maintenance window and again once all systems are fully restored. During this time, all escWorks® customer-facing links and pages will be temporarily unavailable.
ESOL 101: The Basics, Training for novice ESOL coordinators and teachers.
This training is a 6-hour in-person interactive session for novice coordinators, administrators, and teachers working with English Learners. This comprehensive session will include the following topics:
Identification and Placement of Language Minority Students/English Learners
HLUS (Home Language Usage Survey)
ELPA21/Alt ELPA21 Screener
LPAC (Language Proficiency Assessment Committee)
English Language Acquisition Process
Instructional Strategies for use with English Learners
Assessment and Evaluation for English Learners
ESOL Program Compliance and Documentation
LIEP (Language Instruction Education Program) Codes
This training is a 6-hour in-person interactive session for novice coordinators, administrators, and teachers working with English Learners. This comprehensive session will include the following topics:
Identification and Placement of Language Minority Students/English Learners
HLUS (Home Language Usage Survey)
ELPA21/Alt ELPA21 Screener
LPAC (Language Proficiency Assessment Committee)
English Language Acquisition Process
Instructional Strategies for use with English Learners
Assessment and Evaluation for English Learners
ESOL Program Compliance and Documentation
LIEP (Language Instruction Education Program) Codes
At the ADE Summit, Dr. Michael Watson and Russ Sherrill from Office of Coordinated Support and Service led a session exploring key barriers to the successful implementation of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). The presentation emphasized the foundational elements necessary for effective implementation, with a particular focus on Tier I Behavior and Mental Health. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the strengths and challenges within their own districts and engaged in discussions around common implementation pitfalls—drawing from both research and the presenters’ practical experiences.
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Our very own Russ Sherrill and THRIVING Arkansans Angela Mask and Kameron Irvin from Bryant Elementary School joined representatives from BX3 to share their school’s journey in implementing Behavior and Mental Health MTSS at the ADE Summit. These dedicated administrators highlighted how support from THRIVE and BX3 empowered them to collaborate with their staff toward full implementation. Through this process, they established positive behavior supports, adopted effective discipline strategies, and cultivated a more supportive learning environment for all students. #SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Big shoutout to Lynda Burt, APSCN Analyst, who presented two impactful sessions at the DESE Summit!
💻 Session 1: Mastering Preparation for Flawless State Reporting
This session focused on the power of proactive preparation. Lynda walked participants through the essential steps to avoid errors, prevent setbacks, and submit clean, accurate data that sets districts up for success. Because when the prep is solid—state reporting becomes smooth sailing!
📈 Session 2: Understanding the Power Behind State Reporting Data
In this eye-opening session, Lynda highlighted how state reporting is more than just numbers—it’s a reflection of a district’s identity. The accuracy of submitted data can shape funding, reputation, and decision-making at the state level. As Lynda said: “We’re not just reporting—we’re shaping the future of our schools.”
We’re proud of Lynda for representing SEARK and sharing her expertise with educators across the state!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
💻 Session 1: Mastering Preparation for Flawless State Reporting
This session focused on the power of proactive preparation. Lynda walked participants through the essential steps to avoid errors, prevent setbacks, and submit clean, accurate data that sets districts up for success. Because when the prep is solid—state reporting becomes smooth sailing!
📈 Session 2: Understanding the Power Behind State Reporting Data
In this eye-opening session, Lynda highlighted how state reporting is more than just numbers—it’s a reflection of a district’s identity. The accuracy of submitted data can shape funding, reputation, and decision-making at the state level. As Lynda said: “We’re not just reporting—we’re shaping the future of our schools.”
We’re proud of Lynda for representing SEARK and sharing her expertise with educators across the state!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Dr. Brent Miller of the Office of Coordinated Support and Service and Mr. Tony Roach, Principal at Central High School in the Helena-West Helena School District presented a session at the DESE Summit entitled "I'm Still Standin'." The session focused on the journey of a second year principal and the challenges faced in the overarching journey to shifting school culture and student outcomes. Mr. Roach focused on his successes and the positive movement that is being seen (e.g., significant decreases in students scoring in Level 1 in ATLAS, increased rates of proficiency). He also was honest and shared where he still needs to see growth in himself and his building as well as he plans for year three and long term strategy to continue moving the building forward.
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Members of the OCSS team presented a session at the ADE Summit highlighting the power of aligned leadership teams to drive meaningful change in classrooms when considering students with IEPs. The session focused on how superintendents, principals, and LEA supervisors can foster intentional collaboration that strengthens instructional support. Emphasis was placed on the superintendent’s role in building and sustaining collaborative leadership teams where all administrators actively engage in planning, problem-solving, and designing effective master schedules. A panel of experienced practitioners shared practical strategies, followed by a roundtable discussion for attendees to exchange ideas and learn from one another.
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
What a powerful day at SEARK Co-op!
Educators from across the region packed the room (all in red, all in sync) for “Classroom Management, Effective Instruction, and Student Motivation – The Keys to Raising Student Achievement.”
Led by the incredible Mark McLeod, this high-impact, high-energy session delivered exactly what it promised:
✅ Practical, effective strategies
✅ Real talk from someone who’s been in the trenches
✅ Tools to re-engage students AND educators
From classroom teachers to administrators, this session had something for everyone—and kept the energy high from start to finish! Whether you're looking for new engagement techniques, management strategies, or just a professional recharge, this session brought the spark.
Huge thanks to Mark McLeod for an unforgettable day of learning!
📌 Check out the rest of our summer PD lineup here:
👉 https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Thursday brought another dynamic day of learning at the SEARK Co-op, with sessions focused on instruction, safety, and student success from every angle!
🧑🏫 Classroom Management, Effective Instruction, and Student Motivation – Led by the engaging and nationally recognized Mark McLeod, this powerful session explored how these three key components work together to raise student achievement.
📊 Data Camp with Spreadsheets – Educators continued building their skills in organizing and interpreting data to better inform instruction and support student progress.
⛑️ CPR, First Aid, Stop the Bleed & Narcan – Hands-on training that empowers staff to respond confidently and effectively in emergency situations.
🤝 Powerful Interactions – A session focused on strengthening educator-child relationships and using everyday moments to create meaningful learning opportunities.
Each workshop today reinforced the importance of being prepared, intentional, and student-centered in everything we do.
📌 Don’t miss your chance to join the learning this summer!
👉 Check out the full PD schedule here: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
🧑🏫 Classroom Management, Effective Instruction, and Student Motivation – Led by the engaging and nationally recognized Mark McLeod, this powerful session explored how these three key components work together to raise student achievement.
📊 Data Camp with Spreadsheets – Educators continued building their skills in organizing and interpreting data to better inform instruction and support student progress.
⛑️ CPR, First Aid, Stop the Bleed & Narcan – Hands-on training that empowers staff to respond confidently and effectively in emergency situations.
🤝 Powerful Interactions – A session focused on strengthening educator-child relationships and using everyday moments to create meaningful learning opportunities.
Each workshop today reinforced the importance of being prepared, intentional, and student-centered in everything we do.
📌 Don’t miss your chance to join the learning this summer!
👉 Check out the full PD schedule here: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
This week, our Director, Assistant Director, IT Coordinator, and Co-op Specialists are representing SEARK at the ADE Summit connecting, learning, and collaborating with educators from across the state!
They’re gaining valuable insights and tools to bring back and better support the schools and communities we serve!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
They’re gaining valuable insights and tools to bring back and better support the schools and communities we serve!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Wednesday PD Highlights at SEARK Co‑op!
Educators across the region joined us today for sessions filled with practical tools, creative strategies, and meaningful conversations:
📊 Data Camp with Spreadsheets – Teachers explored how to organize, analyze, and visualize student data to drive instruction and make confident, informed decisions.
🌍 Inclusive Practices for ALL Teachers: Real Solutions to Real Problems from the Real World – This powerful session focused on meeting the diverse needs of students by providing inclusive strategies educators can use right away.
🔬 Picture-Perfect Science Lessons for K–5 – A hands-on, engaging workshop designed to help teachers bring science to life through visually rich, inquiry-based learning.
It was a full day of learning, sharing, and growing together—and we’re not done yet!
📌 There’s still more to come—check out the rest of our summer PD lineup here:
👉 https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Educators across the region joined us today for sessions filled with practical tools, creative strategies, and meaningful conversations:
📊 Data Camp with Spreadsheets – Teachers explored how to organize, analyze, and visualize student data to drive instruction and make confident, informed decisions.
🌍 Inclusive Practices for ALL Teachers: Real Solutions to Real Problems from the Real World – This powerful session focused on meeting the diverse needs of students by providing inclusive strategies educators can use right away.
🔬 Picture-Perfect Science Lessons for K–5 – A hands-on, engaging workshop designed to help teachers bring science to life through visually rich, inquiry-based learning.
It was a full day of learning, sharing, and growing together—and we’re not done yet!
📌 There’s still more to come—check out the rest of our summer PD lineup here:
👉 https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Tuesday at the SEARK Co-op was all about well-being, connection, and reflection.
Educators participated in:
🧘♀️ Stress & Resiliency / Trust, Inside & Out / Your Mental Health – a powerful session focused on managing stress, building trust, and prioritizing mental health in and out of the classroom.
🛋️ PD in Your PJs – because meaningful learning doesn’t always require a dress code! Participants engaged in technology skills professional growth from the comfort of home—proving that flexibility and learning can go hand in hand. (See our Business Office employees participating
🏫 Intro to CLASS – an insightful look into the Classroom Assessment Scoring System, focused on enhancing teacher-student interactions that foster meaningful learning environments.
Taking care of ourselves is just as important as taking care of our classrooms—and today’s sessions were a reminder of that!
Ready to learn with us? Explore the rest of our summer PD here:
https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Educators participated in:
🧘♀️ Stress & Resiliency / Trust, Inside & Out / Your Mental Health – a powerful session focused on managing stress, building trust, and prioritizing mental health in and out of the classroom.
🛋️ PD in Your PJs – because meaningful learning doesn’t always require a dress code! Participants engaged in technology skills professional growth from the comfort of home—proving that flexibility and learning can go hand in hand. (See our Business Office employees participating
🏫 Intro to CLASS – an insightful look into the Classroom Assessment Scoring System, focused on enhancing teacher-student interactions that foster meaningful learning environments.
Taking care of ourselves is just as important as taking care of our classrooms—and today’s sessions were a reminder of that!
Ready to learn with us? Explore the rest of our summer PD here:
https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Serving our communities is at the heart of what we do at the SEARK Co-op!
Jessica Griffin, SEARK Co-op’s Early Childhood Local Lead, spent the day reading to children at the Warren Branch Library as part of their Summer Reading Program. Through stories and smiles, she helped spark a love of reading in our youngest learners.
Have a program or event we can support? We’d love to partner with you!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Jessica Griffin, SEARK Co-op’s Early Childhood Local Lead, spent the day reading to children at the Warren Branch Library as part of their Summer Reading Program. Through stories and smiles, she helped spark a love of reading in our youngest learners.
Have a program or event we can support? We’d love to partner with you!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
A big thank you to the Monticello Branch Public Library for hosting our PBS Read to Succeed event on June 28th!
Our Local Early Childhood Lead, Jessica Griffin, led families in reading the hilarious story Potato Pants! After the story, kids got creative designing their own “pants” and enjoyed a hot dog lunch provided by the Monticello Junior Auxiliary—thank you, JA, for your support!
We love seeing literacy, creativity, and community come together in such a fun way!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Our Local Early Childhood Lead, Jessica Griffin, led families in reading the hilarious story Potato Pants! After the story, kids got creative designing their own “pants” and enjoyed a hot dog lunch provided by the Monticello Junior Auxiliary—thank you, JA, for your support!
We love seeing literacy, creativity, and community come together in such a fun way!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Integrating Science into the 1st Grade Literacy Block
Get ready to embark on an adventure with our sensational workshop tailor‑made for first‑grade teachers! Join us for a journey that's not just about teaching; it's about turning your classroom into a hive of excitement around science.
Don’t miss out on the learning! Browse our Summer PD opportunities: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
A strong start to the week here at SEARK Co-op!
Today’s professional development lineup brought a wide range of learning opportunities for educators and staff across our region:
📚 Dyslexia Legislation, Rules, and Dyslexia Resource Guide Updates – Keeping educators informed and equipped to support struggling readers
➕ Illustrative Math Centers: Overview and Make & Take (K–2) – Teachers explored hands-on math strategies and left with ready-to-use classroom materials
📊 Mastering Spreadsheets: From Zero to Hero – Leveling up organization, data tracking, and efficiency with practical spreadsheet skills
🐛 STEAM with a Caterpillar and Other Classics – Using children’s literature to spark STEAM-based learning and creativity
🧼 Annual Custodial/Maintenance Training – Ensuring our facilities staff are prepared, informed, and appreciated for the essential work they do every day
We love starting the week surrounded by passionate professionals who are dedicated to student success from every angle!
📌 Don’t miss out—join the learning by exploring our full summer PD lineup:
👉 https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Today’s professional development lineup brought a wide range of learning opportunities for educators and staff across our region:
📚 Dyslexia Legislation, Rules, and Dyslexia Resource Guide Updates – Keeping educators informed and equipped to support struggling readers
➕ Illustrative Math Centers: Overview and Make & Take (K–2) – Teachers explored hands-on math strategies and left with ready-to-use classroom materials
📊 Mastering Spreadsheets: From Zero to Hero – Leveling up organization, data tracking, and efficiency with practical spreadsheet skills
🐛 STEAM with a Caterpillar and Other Classics – Using children’s literature to spark STEAM-based learning and creativity
🧼 Annual Custodial/Maintenance Training – Ensuring our facilities staff are prepared, informed, and appreciated for the essential work they do every day
We love starting the week surrounded by passionate professionals who are dedicated to student success from every angle!
📌 Don’t miss out—join the learning by exploring our full summer PD lineup:
👉 https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Today we were excited to welcome some of our new AmeriCorps members as they began their journey with us at SEARK! From completing paperwork to connecting with our current AmeriCorps staff, it was a great start to a year full of service for these members!
We can’t wait to see the difference they will make!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
We can’t wait to see the difference they will make!
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution
Educational Service Centers kicked off the New Superintendent Mentoring Program before the DESE Summit
The new superintendents gained valuable insights and inspiration during the launch of the Superintendent Mentoring Program.
Dr. Karen Walters set the tone with a powerful session on Ethical Leadership, Professionalism, and Navigating the First 90 Days — helping new leaders focus on integrity, clarity, and confidence.
Skipper Ward and Dr. Jennifer Barbaree shared practical tools for Establishing Strong Board and Community Relations, emphasizing trust, communication, and connection.
Dr. Jody Hopkins led a high-impact session on School Safety – Setting the Standard Early, reminding us that safety starts with strong leadership and clear expectations.
We’re off to a great start — and these new leaders are ready to make a difference!
#DESESummit #NewSuperintendentMentoring #yourBESTsolution #SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE
The new superintendents gained valuable insights and inspiration during the launch of the Superintendent Mentoring Program.
Dr. Karen Walters set the tone with a powerful session on Ethical Leadership, Professionalism, and Navigating the First 90 Days — helping new leaders focus on integrity, clarity, and confidence.
Skipper Ward and Dr. Jennifer Barbaree shared practical tools for Establishing Strong Board and Community Relations, emphasizing trust, communication, and connection.
Dr. Jody Hopkins led a high-impact session on School Safety – Setting the Standard Early, reminding us that safety starts with strong leadership and clear expectations.
We’re off to a great start — and these new leaders are ready to make a difference!
#DESESummit #NewSuperintendentMentoring #yourBESTsolution #SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE
🧠 Learning was in full force at the SEARK Co-op on Saturday!
Educators gathered for Flip It! Transforming Challenging Behavior—a powerful training focused on helping teachers respond to difficult behaviors with empathy, structure, and practical strategies.
The session gave attendees the tools to shift their mindset, strengthen relationships, and turn everyday challenges into teachable moments. 💬💡
📌 Even on a Saturday, the commitment to student success was still strong!
Want to join the learning?
👉 View our full summer PD schedule: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution #FlipIt #ChallengingBehavior #TeacherTraining
Educators gathered for Flip It! Transforming Challenging Behavior—a powerful training focused on helping teachers respond to difficult behaviors with empathy, structure, and practical strategies.
The session gave attendees the tools to shift their mindset, strengthen relationships, and turn everyday challenges into teachable moments. 💬💡
📌 Even on a Saturday, the commitment to student success was still strong!
Want to join the learning?
👉 View our full summer PD schedule: https://www.searkcoop.com/page/professional-development
#SEARKserves #ServicebeginswithSE #yourBESTsolution #FlipIt #ChallengingBehavior #TeacherTraining
