GENTRY, AR – Following months of planning and development, the Gentry School District is moving forward with two major construction projects after the school board approved the final construction documents at its meeting Wednesday.
The projects, made possible through last year’s voter-approved millage restoration, include a new middle school classroom addition with FEMA-rated storm shelter capabilities and the construction of the Pioneer Arena.
“This is an exciting step forward for our district and continues our efforts to focus on safety and providing the best tools possible for our students and teachers,” Gentry Superintendent Dr. Tyler Broyles said. “These projects are designed specifically to enhance our student experience, and they’re even more meaningful with the support we’ve received from our community and knowing families in our district support our schools.”
The Pioneer Arena will be a 46,000-square-foot competition facility, while the middle school addition will add 7,500 square feet, including six new classrooms that will double as a FEMA-rated storm shelter to improve student safety during severe weather.
District leaders emphasized that the projects are the result of extensive collaboration and preparation, including design development, pre-construction planning, and multiple reviews by local and state agencies.
“We’re grateful to our community and families for their continued support, as well as to our School Board and district staff who helped shape this vision,” Broyles said. “Their collaboration and commitment have been instrumental in developing a project that will serve students and the community for years to come.”
The investments are expected to expand learning spaces, enhance safety, and improve athletic and activity facilities across the district.
With the board approval, construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with crews mobilizing by early summer. The full timeline for completion is estimated at up to 18 months, depending on weather and other factors, with visible progress anticipated throughout the process, Gentry’s Chief Operating Officer Jason Barrett told the Board.
To provide a preview of the projects, the district has shared a virtual walkthrough reflecting the overall vision and design direction. However, officials note that the walkthrough is conceptual and intended to show sample spaces rather than every individual room or final detail.
The walkthrough video is available here.
Broyles said the projects represent a long-term investment in students, staff, and the broader community, reinforcing Gentry Schools’ commitment to growth, safety, and opportunity.
“These improvements are about creating spaces where students can connect, learn and succeed,” Broyles said.