Typical qualifications include:
High school diploma or GED.
Ability to pass required background checks.
Must meet Arkansas paraprofessional qualifications, which can be done by:
Passing the ParaPro Assessment/ParaPathways test, or
Completing at least 60 college credit hours, or
Earning an associate degree or higher.
If you're applying for the DMESC 3–5 Special Education Program in the Mena area, taking and passing the ParaPro exam is an accepted way to qualify if you don't already have the required college hours or degree.
Contact kelli.parson@dmesc.org or shelley.gilchrist@dmesc.org
Roll the cameras...
Our cast is almost here!
Everything is ready, and we can't wait to welcome you to the
DMESC Early Childhood Summit!
Get ready for an unforgettable week of
learning, connecting, and celebrating the incredible work of early childhood educators.
See you Monday—the show is about to begin!
#LittleStepsBigFuture
#BuildingBrightFutures
#thinkcoop1st
State and Federal guidelines require that all special education due process forms and records be destroyed six years after a student leaves the special education or speech therapy program. You have the right to review and pick up your/your child’s due process records. The special education records are available at DeQueen Mena ESC. Contact Kelli Parson 870-584-8657. The records will be destroyed on August 31, 2026. These records are not your child’s permanent records. The records contain special education due process forms and evaluations. If your child exited our program by July 1 of 2020, the records will be destroyed August 31, 2026.
Watching your child grow and reach new milestones is one of the greatest rewards of parenthood. If you notice that your child is not meeting developmental milestones or is having difficulty doing things that other children of the same age can do, support and resources are available.
Contact your local school district or education service cooperative to learn about services for infants, children, and young adults from birth through age 21 who have developmental delays, disabilities, or other special needs.
Kelli Parson, Early Childhood Coordinator (479) 385-4319 (for children 3-5 in all districts)
#thinkcoop1st
Early Childhood Paraprofessional in Mount Ida-
Minimum qualifications are a CDA or the willingness to obtain a CDA within one year. Must be dependable, pass a criminal background check and be willing to be a team player. 185 day contract
Early Childhood Classroom Teacher in Ashdown-
Minimum qualifications are an AA or a CDA with the ability obtain an AA within two years. Must be dependable, pass a criminal background check and be willing to be a team player.
Send resume to kelli.parson@dmesc.org
#thinkcoop1st#
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.
#LittleStepsBigFuture
#BuildingBrightFutures
Speech-Language Pathologist
DeQueen Mena Education Service Cooperative (DMESC) – Early Childhood Program
Position: Full-Time Speech-Language Pathologist
Service Areas: Nashville School District, Cossatot River, and Itinerant Services.
Contract: 195 Days
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications
Make a Difference Every Day
Join a passionate team dedicated to helping young learners find their voices and reach their full potential. The DMESC Early Childhood Program is seeking a caring, skilled, and collaborative Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to provide high-quality services to preschool-aged children (ages 3–5). This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact in a supportive, team-oriented environment that values professional growth and meaningful relationships.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct comprehensive speech and language evaluations for children ages 3–5
Develop and implement individualized therapy plans aligned with each child’s IEP
Deliver engaging, evidence-based therapy in inclusive early childhood settings
Collaborate with teachers, families, and multidisciplinary teams to support communication development
Maintain accurate documentation and progress reports in compliance with program and state requirements
Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
Current Arkansas SLP License
Arkansas Department of Education Certification
CCC-SLP (Certificate of Clinical Competence) preferred
Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
Benefits
Membership in the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System (ATRS)
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid leave and holidays
Ongoing professional development and support from an experienced, collaborative team
Why Join DMESC?
At DMESC, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of young learners. The Early Childhood Program fosters a culture of collaboration, respect, and continuous learning. SLPs are supported with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to grow professionally while making a real difference in children’s lives.
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit the following:
Letter of interest
Resume
Copies of current licensure and certifications
Three professional references
Submit application materials to:
Kelli Parson, Ed.S.
Early Childhood Coordinator
DeQueen Mena Education Service Cooperative
kelli.parson@dmesc.org
Empower communication. Inspire growth. Join the DMESC Early Childhood team today.
#thinkcoop1st#
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.
#LittleStepsBigFuture
#BuildingBrightFutures
#thinkcoop1st
#LittleStepsBigFuture
#BuildingBrightFutures
Day 3 of NIET TESS Observation Training focused on building a shared
understanding of effective instruction, meaningful feedback, and continuous improvement.
#thinkcoop1st #yourBESTsolution
Day 2 of NIET TESS Observation Training focused on building a shared
understanding of effective instruction, meaningful feedback, and continuous improvement.
#thinkcoop1st #yourBESTsolution
Day 1 of NIET TESS Observation Training focused on building a shared understanding of effective instruction, meaningful feedback, and continuous improvement.
#thinkcoop1st #yourBESTsolution
