Week 23: What We Measure, What We Miss

Happy Friday!

As we close another week at Mena Public Schools, I want to take a moment to recognize the dedication each of you brings to ensuring that our students are learning, growing, and becoming more prepared for the future every day. Our work toward district performance targets continues, but it is important to remember that teaching is more than just meeting benchmarks—it is an art, a science, and an act of service. It demands creativity, precision, and an understanding of human nature, unlike any other profession. And yet, despite our deep understanding of the complexities of learning, we measure it through a system that is both imperfect and essential—a paradox that challenges us but does not define us.

Assessment Perspective

Assessment is a paradox. It is the best tool we have for measuring our effect on students, yet it can never fully capture the depth of our work. It offers data that informs instruction, yet it often reduces the beauty of learning to numbers on a page. It holds us accountable for student outcomes, yet it cannot quantify the relationships we build, the confidence we instill, or the doors of possibility we open.

We all know that a test score does not define a student. A number cannot capture the resilience of a child who overcomes personal struggles to complete an assignment. A percentile rank does not reflect the way a student has learned to ask better questions, collaborate, or think critically. A reading level cannot measure the moment when a child picks up a book and, for the first time, sees themselves in the story.

And yet, as imperfect as assessments are, we cannot dismiss them. They allow us to track progress, to diagnose gaps, and to ensure that every student gets the support they need. They provide us with a shared language, a way to look beyond the anecdotal and identify trends that might otherwise go unnoticed. They help us see whether our strategies are working, whether our interventions are effective and whether our efforts are making the kind of impact we intend.

There is no escaping the reality that numbers drive many of the decisions made about education—by policymakers, by the public, by parents, and by students themselves. Our challenge, then, is to use assessment without allowing it to define us. We must be data-informed but not data-obsessed. We must interpret results with wisdom, understanding that scores are snapshots, not full portraits. We must remember that the most important effects of our work may never show up in a spreadsheet.

So, as we analyze assessments, adjust instruction, and respond to data, let us also hold onto what we know to be true: The impact of a great teacher extends far beyond what can be measured. The power of education is not just in the knowledge students gain but in the confidence, curiosity, and character they develop.

If assessment is inadequate but indispensable, then we must always ask ourselves: How do we ensure that what truly matters in education is not lost in what can be measured? That is a question worth considering as we move forward together.

Thank you all for the tireless work you do, for the care you show our students, and for the dedication you bring to your craft.

Recognizing Our Counselors

This week, we have had the opportunity to celebrate National School Counseling Week, and I want to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for the incredible counselors who serve the students of Mena Public Schools. At Mena High School, Shannon Lyle and Ashlyn Watts provide guidance that helps students navigate their academic and personal journeys with confidence. At Mena Middle School, Leilani Rose offers critical support during a pivotal time in students’ development. At Holly Harshman Elementary, Tonya Thacker fosters a positive and supportive environment where students can thrive, and at Louise Durham Elementary, Dr. Julia Westcott helps lay the foundation for emotional and social growth at the very start of our students’ educational experiences. School counselors are often the unsung heroes of our schools—advocating for students, providing a listening ear, and ensuring that every child has the support they need to succeed. Please take a moment to thank them for the invaluable work they do every day. We are grateful for their dedication to our students, our staff, and our mission.

Legislative Updates

In recent legislative actions during the 95th Arkansas General Assembly, two significant education-related bills have advanced. The Senate approved Senate Bill 142, known as the "Bell to Bell, No Cell Act," which aims to ban students from using cellphones and other personal electronic devices during the school day in public schools, starting in the 2025-2026 school year. This initiative seeks to address concerns about the impact of unrestricted smartphone access on students' mental health and academic performance.

Additionally, a legislative committee has given initial approval to a bill that would provide free breakfast to all Arkansas public school students, regardless of their eligibility for federally funded free or reduced-price meals. This measure aims to ensure that every student has access to a nutritious breakfast to support their learning and well-being.

To stay informed about current educational legislation in Arkansas, you can utilize the Arkansas State Legislature's official website, which offers a comprehensive and up-to-date database of all bills under consideration. By visiting the Bills Search page, you can filter for education-related bills by selecting the appropriate biennium/session and using relevant keywords. This resource allows you to track the progress of specific bills, view their full texts, and stay informed about legislative actions affecting education in the state.

Closing

Congratulations to the four Mena High School students who earned multiple awards at the Mena Art Gallery Youth Show. Norah Williams, Camilla Booher, and Belle Jaynes placed 1st through 3rd, while Kate Wilson received Best in Show for her outstanding artwork. Their pieces will be on display at the Mena Art Gallery through February 15, and I encourage everyone to stop by and see the incredible talent our students are showcasing. This is well-deserved recognition!

As we approach the basketball district tournaments, I want to wish all of our teams the best of luck. These tournaments are the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, and I know our athletes will represent Mena with determination and pride. Whether on the court or in the stands, we continue to support our Bearcats and Ladycats as they compete. Good luck to all of our teams—play hard and make Mena proud!

Our Unified Special Olympics Team competed in the Winter Games in Springdale yesterday, Thursday, February 6th. Our athletes showcased their hard work, dedication, and teamwork, making us all proud. Congratulations to the team on their efforts and accomplishments!

The Mena Bearcats Wrestling Team is heading to Paris High School this Saturday to compete in Dual State! This tournament features the top 8 teams in 4A, making it a tremendous honor just to be selected. support these hardworking athletes as they represent Mena on the mat!

It was a good week at Mena Public Schools.

At Mena Public Schools our students are prepared, our staff is supported, and our community is confident.

Keep the #menareads posts and videos coming and have a nice weekend!