GENTRY, AR – The Gentry School Board is taking another important step in its ongoing exploration of a potential Pre-K program for the district. At its most recent meeting, the Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a specialized consultant to help guide the district through the early planning process.
This step does not represent a final decision, but rather a commitment to carefully and thoroughly examine whether a Pre-K program would be a good fit for the Gentry community, Gentry Superintendent Dr. Tyler Broyles said.
“There’s a lot of enthusiasm about the possibility of Pre-K, and we want our families to know we hear that,” said Broyles. “At the same time, we want to be clear—developing a Pre-K program isn’t as simple as adding a few classrooms. It requires extensive coordination, careful planning, and community-informed decisions to ensure long-term success.”
The consultant will assist the district in:
Defining what the full planning process will entail;
Assessing whether a Pre-K program aligns with the community’s needs and available resources;
Creating a turn-key proposal, should the Board choose to move forward.
While this work is still in the early stages, the district is exploring the possibility of opening a limited number of Pre-K classes beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.
“Our goal is to remain proactive and responsive,” Dr. Broyles added. “Since day one, it’s been my passion to ensure Gentry grows strategically and equitably—whether that’s through academics, fine arts, athletics, safety, or facilities. This Pre-K exploration reflects that same commitment.”
As the planning process unfolds, Gentry Public Schools will continue to provide updates and opportunities for community engagement.
“We’re proud of the work happening across the district and grateful for a community that continuously supports our vision,” Dr. Broyles said. “At Gentry, we don’t stop at ‘good enough’—we push for greatness, every second, every day.”