GENTRY, AR — Gentry Public Schools is proud to report a successful start to the 2025–26 school year, with all four campuses — Gentry High School, Gentry Middle School, Gentry Intermediate School, and Gentry Primary School — opening their doors to students with smooth operations, strong engagement, and a positive atmosphere throughout the district.
“The first day of school set the tone for what promises to be another excellent year for our students and staff,” said Dr. Tyler Broyles, Superintendent of Gentry Public Schools. “We are excited about the energy in our buildings and the continued growth in our student population.”
Significant Growth in Enrollment and ADM
Recent data underscores the district’s upward trajectory. According to the Arkansas Department of Education, Gentry’s Average Daily Membership (ADM) — a critical metric that reflects average daily student attendance and impacts state funding — has grown from 1,448 in Fiscal Year 2021 to 1,744 in Fiscal Year 2025. That represents an increase of nearly 21% in just four years.
This growth ranks second statewide in terms of percentage increase and first among all districts in the Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative region.
First-day enrollment numbers for the 2025–26 school year further reflect this trend. More than 1,820 students were present on the first day of classes — up from approximately 1,780 on the first day last year. While enrollment figures will adjust in the coming weeks, this early indicator continues the district’s strong growth pattern.
Impact of Attendance and Community Expansion
Because ADM is used to determine school funding, daily attendance plays a crucial role in ensuring that Gentry Public Schools can continue to provide high-quality instruction, staffing, and student programs. “While funding is important, the real reason attendance matters is that students can only thrive academically when they’re in the classroom,” Dr. Broyles noted.
Gentry’s population growth is contributing to these enrollment increases, with new homes under development and families steadily moving into the area. The district remains committed to providing a top-tier education while preserving its close-knit, small-town character.
“We’re proud to be known as ‘The District of Choice: A world-class education with a small-town feel,’” Dr. Broyles said. “Our growth is more than a statistic — it’s a reflection of the trust families are placing in us and the hard work of our staff, students, and community.”
Media Contact:
Mark Scott
Director of Community Engagement
479-264-0103
mscott@gentrypioneers.com