West Memphis district starts school year after superintendent’s death

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — Tuesday marked the first day of the 2024-2025 school year for the West Memphis district after the untimely passing of their superintendent.

Maddux Elementary School Principal, Kalisha Pitts, says the focus is on building a future for students together.

Pitts wants to remind parents of the new guidelines.

“Schools dismiss now at 3:15 p.m. and start at 8 .m.,” said Pitts.

She also says it is important to have students in their seats on time because they are beefing up security.

“Every classroom door is closed and locked daily so that all children are secured. Once they get into our buildings our front doors are locked as well,” Pitts said.

Last year, West Memphis School District adopted the year-round calendar.

“It was actually hectic,” said Pitts.

But this year, parents are more prepared.

“I feel like it’s actually better for the kids because it’s keeping them out of trouble and they get to be in school more and actually try to do things in the school,” Pitts said.

One thing that is missing this academic school year is the former Superintendent Dr. Terrance Brown, who passed away in May.

“We miss Doctor Brown,” Pitts said. “He was an awesome leader. His leadership was amazing. But our district has pulled it together and collaborated. We are working together with one another. We are still pressing through.”

Willie Harris is currently serving as the Interim Superintendent.

WREG has reached out to the school district to see if they have made any progress in finding a permanent hire.

We were told that the superintendent search closes on August 9 and that the school board will review all applications after that day.

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