In response to the success of the four prior Student-Focused Study Tours, the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), in collaboration with the Office of Innovation for Education (OIE) and Digital Learning Unit (ADE:DESE), will shine a spotlight on highly effective practices, programs, and innovative schools within Arkansas by hosting another tour, this time virtually.

The “tour” will be hosted via Zoom starting with a video highlighting the initiatives of the school and ending with a panel discussion with the school team. The featured schools are:

Hugh Goodwin Elementary on April 7, 2022 from 3:45-4:30 p.m.

• Hugh Goodwin Elementary is a student-centered learning environment located in El Dorado, Arkansas that values relationships with students, their families, and the community. Because of their dedication to educating the whole child, Hugh Goodwin was recently awarded as a 2021 National Blue Ribbon School for exemplary achievement in closing the gap. The school is an affiliate of the Farm to School Network and partners with numerous community organizations that offer a wealth of enriching learning experiences to expand instruction beyond the school walls. Tour Hugh Goodwin to see and learn about The Gator Garden, “The Hugh” Student Broadcast, student celebrations, community and parental involvement, and integration of the arts and technology.

Horatio High School on May 3, 2022 from 3:45-4:30 p.m.

• Horatio High School of Innovation (HHS) is part of a small rural school district in southwest Arkansas. HHS began their innovation journey in 2016 with their full school and community, including parents and students, collectively leading the charge and in 2021, HHS was ranked 10th in the state for overall growth and 5th in the state for math growth (Office for Education Policy). By intentionally focusing on co-designing with students and staff and having a “never quit improving” approach focused on ongoing innovation, HHS has gained regional and statewide attention and success for their students. Some HHS innovations include: creative scheduling that includes time for daily mentoring sessions with students, collaborative team time, internship opportunities, blended learning and classroom rotation stations with an emphasis on math instruction, community service classes, eSports, EAST, CTE Pathways, and digital marketing and computer science courses.

There is no charge to participate. To register for the Student-Focused Study Tours, please complete the registration form (register here) by March 31, 2022. More information on the schools and a detailed agenda will be provided to registered participants by email.