Siloam Springs School Board Approves New Speech Therapists and Meeting Schedule

In the heart of Siloam Springs, the local school district board convened on August 15, 2025, to address pressing educational matters that impact the community's students and educators. The meeting, marked by a spirit of collaboration and urgency, highlighted key developments in special education staffing and the management of student transfers.

Rebecca Walker, co-director of special education, opened the session with enthusiasm, expressing her gratitude for the dedicated efforts of principals and special education staff as they prepared for the new school year. She emphasized the importance of filling two vacant speech pathology positions, which had remained unfilled over the summer. Walker proposed a partnership with Synergy Therapy Group, a company she praised for its quality services, to bring in two local speech therapists who had already participated in back-to-school training. The board unanimously approved the motion, signaling a commitment to enhancing support for students with special needs.

The meeting also addressed the sensitive issue of student transfers. Under state law, the board must evaluate transfer requests based on the district's capacity to provide educational services. With the district currently operating above its capacity, Superintendent Shane recommended denying two transfer requests. The board engaged in a thoughtful discussion, acknowledging the unfortunate nature of the decision but recognizing the necessity of adhering to legal guidelines. Both motions to deny the transfers were passed, reflecting the board's commitment to maintaining quality education for current students.

In addition to staffing and transfer discussions, the board approved an updated schedule for regular meetings, ensuring that future sessions would avoid conflicts with essential training dates. The meeting concluded with the approval of several resignations and new hires, including a new food service director and various teaching positions, further solidifying the district's commitment to providing quality education.

As the board adjourned, the atmosphere was one of determination and hope, with members focused on the challenges ahead and the well-being of Siloam Springs students. The decisions made during this meeting will undoubtedly shape the educational landscape for the community in the coming year.