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District highlights strong Atlas testing results, secures 21st Century grants and approves school improvement plan
Summary
Administrators presented preliminary Atlas testing data showing proficiency rates above state averages, the board approved the 2026–27 school improvement plan, and the district celebrated $600,000 in 21st Century grant awards to support after-school and summer programs.
The Harrison School District reported preliminary gains on the state-aligned Atlas assessment, celebrated multiple 21st Century grant awards, and approved the 2026–27 school improvement plan during its regular meeting.
Abby Wilson presented spring Atlas testing results and trend data across three years. She said kindergarten proficiency in English language arts is substantially above state averages and reported strong gains in math and science across grade bands. Wilson summarized the data by saying the district’s kindergarten ELA and math proficiency rates are well ahead of state averages, and that most grade/subject areas show upward trends when comparing three years of results. On the board podium she noted the figures are preliminary while the testing window remains open.
The board also recognized Susan Gilly’s grant-writing work: Gilly announced the district received two $200,000 21st Century grant awards for two campuses and had previously received $200,000 for a third campus, totaling $600,000 for after-school programming. Gilly warned that some federal funding streams, including 21st Century and Title grants, depend on congressional appropriations and therefore carry funding uncertainty beyond the current award cycle.
Administration presented the 2026–27 school improvement plan required under Arkansas standards; the plan was moved, seconded and approved by the board. The board approved summer staffing and programming—largely funded by the 21st Century grants—including Camp Discovery and expanded meal sites. Administrators said Camp Discovery had full enrollment for its second week and that transportation will be provided where required by grants for students with need.
Board members praised staff and principals for the testing results and for securing grant funding. The board closed the public portion of the meeting after recommending an executive session to discuss personnel matters.
