GENTRY, AR — More than 280 teachers, administrators and staff members returned to Gentry Public Schools this week, marking the official beginning of preparations for the 2026-27 school year and the return of more than 1,800 Pioneer students next week.
The week is filled with professional learning, team-building activities, employee recognitions and inspirational messages designed to prepare educators for another year of helping students connect, learn and succeed.
"Our people are our culture," Superintendent Dr. Tyler Broyles told the district's employees during the district's Welcome Back breakfast Tuesday, crediting the group for their enthusiasm, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence.
That culture was on full display as staff members from across the district gathered to celebrate excellence, recognize years of service and reaffirm their shared commitment to students.
State Rep. Randy Torres, who represents Gentry in the Arkansas General Assembly, was a special guest at the breakfast Tuesday.
"There’s something special about the start of a new school year," Torres said. "I had the privilege of joining the incredible team at Gentry Public Schools for their Welcome Back Breakfast. Seeing the excitement and hearing the conversations reminded me that a great school system is built by great people.
"To every teacher, administrator, bus driver, cafeteria worker, custodian, paraprofessional, and support staff member- thank you. The work you do often goes unnoticed, but the impact you have on the lives of children lasts a lifetime ... And I have to say, the Gentry cafeteria team may have set the standard for school breakfasts in Arkansas!"
As the new school year begins, Gentry teachers return to the classroom with a stronger connection to the community and a renewed commitment to helping all students connect, learn and succeed.
Recognizing Excellence
During the district's Welcome Back events, Gentry Public Schools publicly recognized its 2026 District Teacher of the Year, Amy Gil, and its 2026 Classified Employee of the Year, Angie Newsom, for their outstanding dedication to students and the school community.
The district also honored its Building Teachers of the Year:
Gentry High School:
Loren Babcock
Gentry Middle School:
Cliff Smith
Gentry Intermediate School:
Amy Gil
Gentry Primary School:
Halee Tennison
"The Most Impactful Jobs on the Planet"
The week's keynote address was delivered by former Arkansas State University head football coach and education leader Steve Roberts, whose presentation centered on a simple but powerful theme: "The Most Impactful Jobs on the Planet."
Roberts reminded teachers and staff that few professions have the opportunity to influence lives, shape futures and leave a lasting legacy like education.
He also challenged employees to continue building a winning culture rooted in relationships, trust, teamwork and a shared commitment to excellence. Roberts praised Gentry Public Schools for the positive culture already in place, noting that strong cultures produce meaningful success: Not only in accomplishments, but in the lives of students.
A former college football coach who led Arkansas State University to a Sun Belt Conference championship and the program's first Football Bowl Subdivision bowl appearance, Roberts has continued serving young people through leadership roles in education and athletics. His message encouraged staff members as they prepare to welcome students for another year of learning.
Honoring Years of Service
One of the week's most meaningful traditions was recognizing employees who have dedicated significant portions of their careers to Gentry Public Schools and public education.
Employees honored for milestone years of service included:
5 Years: Alecia Arnold, Amanda Dobbs, Doel Frazier, Anthony Herbaugh, Coleman Jarvis, Natasha Hagood, Johnna Baggett, Courtney Barnett, Taylor Ervin, Rhonda Nelson, Angela Newsom, Megan Smith and Destiny Knight.
10 Years: James Clelland, Hannah Davis, Janae Fairchild, Nicholas Goodman, Erica Jones, Scott McCollum, Walter Austin Millsap, Courtney Millsap Place, Chris Thompson, Brittany Ellison, Wendy Jackson, Joanna Jones-Beck and Ethan Pendergraft.
15 Years: Christina Jones, Agnes Bailey, Tahmara Coones, Michelle Jech, Mark Hawbaker, Lissa Hillis, Jamie Johnson, Justin Rasnick, Clifford Smith, Elizabeth Wieneke, Laura Neville and Misty Curran.
20 Years: Devon Conrad, Nellia Philopott, Lindsay Wilks, Jennifer Pierce, Justin Blanchard, Jason Barrett, Allison Blanchard, Tonya Sweeten, Leanna Floyd, Robert Savage and Jacque Smith.
25 Years: Melissa Bond, Christine Bunce, Andrea Folger, Jennifer Hinterhuer, Kristen Smartt, Tracey Barnes, Angela Evans, Amy Davis and Melinda Ramsey.
30 Years: Richard Davies and Jennifer Lundholm.
35 Years: Joni Wilson.
40 Years: Linda Johnson and Roger Davis.
Collectively, these employees represent hundreds of years of service to Gentry Public Schools and generations of impact on students and families throughout the community.
As the first day of school approaches, Gentry Public Schools enters the new year with excitement, momentum and a shared commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive, Broyles said.
More than 1,800 students will begin classes next week, welcomed by a dedicated team of educators and staff who are prepared to make a difference from the very first day.
"Our teachers and staff don't just educate students. They build relationships, inspire confidence and help shape the future of our community," said Dr. Broyles. "We are grateful for the passion they bring to their work every day and look forward to another outstanding year at Gentry Public Schools."