Dierks School Board Approves Six-Year Terms, Staff Changes, and Insurance at Monthly Meeting

The Dierks School Board held their regular monthly meeting Monday evening, addressing a full agenda that included board term changes, personnel actions, insurance approvals, and updates to the classified salary schedule.

In a unanimous vote following a motion by board members Laykon Graham and seconded by Kara Tedford, the board approved implementing six-year board terms, in accordance with ACT 503 of 2025. Board members then drew for their respective positions, with Laykon Graham drawing position one and Justin Simmons drawing position two.

The board also took personnel action, voting unanimously to terminate Kathryn Winer from her position as special education teacher, effective immediately. The motion was made by Jeffrey Mounts and seconded by Justin Simmons.

In other action, the board approved several student transfer requests—accepting five students out of the district and one student into the district.

A motion to approve an asset removal request also passed unanimously. The motion was made by Jeffrey Mounts and seconded by Laykon Graham.

In financial matters, the board approved vehicle and mobile insurance coverage through the Arkansas School Board Association. The annual vehicle insurance premium will be $8,022.15, and the mobile insurance premium is set at $240.00. The motion was made by Justin Simmons and seconded by Kara Tedford.

Finally, the board unanimously approved the 2025-2026 Classified Salary Schedule, following a motion by Laykon Graham and a second by Jeffrey Mounts.