
Terry Young, Director of the Foster Grandparent Program, participated in the ABC Job Fair at Oden’s campus this week, where new foster grandparents were registered. If you are interested in joining our Foster Grandparent Program, we encourage you to contact us!!
479-385-4319
#AmericorpsSeniors
#Foster Grandparents60
#WhatsYourWhy
#yourBESTsolution
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Why does the Foster Grandparent Program matter to you? Share your story in the comments!
#AmericorpsSeniors #Foster Grandparents60 #WhatsYourWhy
#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st


Effective immediately, all candidates can register for and take Foundations of Reading 890, as this test version allows Arkansas candidates the benefits of the Free-After-Three retake policy.
The Free-After-Three Retake Policy provides candidates who have taken Foundations of Reading 890 three times and have not yet passed to reregister for 890 at no cost.
Please note the following regarding the Series Free-After-Three retake policy:
Any test registration or administration of the 890 prior to December 5, 2023, will not count toward a free retake.
You do not need to use a voucher or any special code; the system will automatically allow eligible candidates to register for their retake for free.
You may register for free up to 12 months after the release of your most recent score report for the test.
If you are absent from your test appointment, the absence will not count toward one of the three attempts.
Candidates who are currently registered for Foundations of Reading 190 should schedule and complete their exam prior to August 31, 2025.
Candidates can register for the 890 by clicking the test name under the heading “Series Test Name and Code” here: https://www.nestest.com/state/ar.


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#LeopardPride


Applicant must have a CDA, or have willingness to obtain it within 1 year. Applicant must pass background checks, provide references, work well in a team, enjoy working with children, and demonstrate a strong work ethic. Please send resume to Kelli Parson at kelli.parson@dmesc.org.


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Foster Grandparent Program Shoutout!!
73 grandparents served DMESC schools last year.
The total # of students served was 398.
85% of those students showed improvement in either academics or behavior!
They served a total of 65,532 volunteer hours!





As we gear up for a new school year, let’s embrace the fresh opportunities and adventures ahead. Educators, your passion shapes the future—let's make this month count!
#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st


#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.


#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.



🌟 Huge shoutout to our Leigh Garner and our amazing DMESC nurses! 🌟
Thank you for your incredible dedication during the power outage today! Your commitment to attending the annual Back-to-School Nurse Workshop, despite the challenges, truly showcases your resilience and teamwork.
We appreciate all your hard work and perseverance—you are the best! 🙌❤️. #yourBESTsolution #thinkcoop1st. We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.


DMESC is excited to be a part of the brand new Beginning Principal Mentoring Program! The program began with a Launch prior to the AAEA Conference on July 28th at the Capital Hotel in Little Rock. This session provided an overview of the Beginning Principal Mentoring Program, outlined support opportunities, and shared session dates for the year. The BPM LAUNCH was essential to connect with mentors, access ongoing training, and join a network of fellow new principals.
Key features of the program include:📅
On-site, job-embedded support tailored to your school’s needs
Six regional learning modules aligned with your leadership journey
TESS Credentialing and Calibration
A two-year structure, focusing on culture in Year 1 and instruction in Year 2
Strong schools begin with strong principals—we're here to help you lead with confidence.
#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.



📅 **Date:** Thursday, August 7, 2025
⏰ **Time:** 10 AM - 2 PM
📍 **Location:** 135 School Dr. Hwy 88 E, Oden, AR 71961
**What to Expect:**
- Assistance with filling out your application
- On-site maltreatment checks and fingerprinting
**What to Bring:**
- Driver's License
- Diploma/Transcripts
- Voided Check (or a letter from your bank with your name, account, and routing number)
- Birth Certificate
- Social Security Card
For more info, contact Kelli Parson or Amanda Wyatt at 479-385-4319 or email kelli.parson@dmesc.org / amanda.wyatt@dmesc.org.
Join us and take a step towards making a difference in early education! 🌟
#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.












We soared through some amazing breakout sessions that aimed to elevate early childhood education! 🚀✨
Highlights included:
📚 CLASS Support
🎨 Intro to Canva
🤝 Inclusion Strategies
📖 How to Do a Book Walk
🔢 Math and Vocabulary Strategies
🧠 Executive Functioning Tips
Thank you to all our attendees for making the day a success! 💪💖




Today’s theme, “Another Brick in the Wall: Classroom Organization,” inspired educators to build effective and engaging learning environments. Participants attended dynamic breakout sessions, including:
- CLASS Behavior Management – Kelli Parson
- CLASS Productivity – Karen Garner
- CLASS Instructional Learning Formats & Behavior – Shasta Pentecost
- Math Strategies for K-3 & Data and Planning – Shannon Miller
- Planning & Facilitating Group Meetings & Group Meeting Make and Take– Christy Nance
- Launch Pad/Google Slides – Kimberly Robertson
- Student Engagement – Logan Derington
- SPED sessions with AAC with Easter Seals
Each session provided practical tools and inspiring ideas to support our dedication to high-quality early childhood education. Check out the photos to see our educators in action!
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Today, participants dove into a variety of engaging breakout sessions centered on “Lean On Me” Emotional Support. Our talented presenters—Karen Garner, Kelli Parson, Zephonia Avant, Samantha Sellers, Katie Thomas, Angie Bobo, Christy Nance, Jill Chaney, Brian Schuller, Savannah Todd, and Terri Grice—guided thoughtful discussions and activities throughout the day.
Swipe through the photos to see our educators connecting, learning, and growing stronger together!
#yourBESTsolution
#thinkcoop1st
We Serve and Support our Schools so that ALL Students Succeed.




