We’re just weeks away from the end of the school year. For some of our teachers, it’s the end of a long and meaningful career, a time to reflect on decades of guiding students and shaping the future of our community. For others, it’s just the beginning, with your first years behind you and countless more ahead. Next year, we’ll welcome new faces and new ideas, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to our schools.
The end of the year brings mixed emotions. There’s pride in the progress made, relief that summer is near, and maybe some sadness as you say goodbye to students moving on. But through it all, your work this year has strengthened our community, laid foundations for learning, and given students the tools they need to grow.
The future is bright because of you. You build up the next generation, preparing them to take on challenges with confidence and purpose. You foster curiosity, kindness, and a love of learning. And when our students step forward as leaders, they will carry your lessons with them.
For all the effort, long hours, and countless ways you show up for our kids, you are valued more than words can express. You're more than teachers, you're guides, you're role models, and you're advocates for the next generation. You’re helping shape futures, build character, and make our community stronger.
Thank you for showing up. Thank you for staying patient. And even though we hear it so often that it has almost lost meaning, it is still absolutely true that you're making a difference in the lives of young people every day. Thank you for choosing this path and giving your best.
Messages of Appreciation from Administration
"I've had the privilege to work side by side with so many wonderful teachers in Gravette. As a fellow teacher, an administrator and most importantly as a dad I have the highest level of respect for the work our staff puts in each day to ready our students for the future. Thank you so much for choosing to teach in Gravette. You are changing lives everyday."
Jeff Gravette Superintendent Gravette School District
"I just want to take a moment to say how thankful we are for each of you. The passion, care, creativity and commitment you bring to your classrooms each day is what makes Gravette such a special place for our students. Gravette is lucky to have you, and I am so grateful for everything you do each day to make this the best place for kids to learn and grow."
Rebecca Andrews Assistant Superintendent Gravette School District
"Gravette teachers are the best! Our teachers go above and beyond to give our students the best education possible. The love and dedication that is shown by our staff is truly inspiring!"
Dr. Brandi Newsom Principal Glenn A. Duffy Elementary
"On behalf of our entire school community, I want to express my deepest appreciation for the dedication, passion, and hard work our teachers put in every day. Your commitment to fostering a love of learning and nurturing the growth of each student does not go unnoticed. Thank you for your unwavering support in shaping the future and making a lasting impact on the lives of our students. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a talented and caring team of educators. - Love, Dr. Barrett"
Dr. Mandy Barrett Principal Gravette Upper Elementary
"I am incredibly thankful to work alongside the faculty at Gravette Middle School. Their unwavering high expectations of their students creates a new generation of leaders in our community and beyond. This is often a thankless profession but seeing the successes of our students as they build lives of their own is thanks in itself. I would encourage all students and former students to find one of your teachers and thank them for all they have invested in you and your future. Our educators epitomize service to others. That makes me more proud to be a part of their team than any other thing."
Taos Jones Principal Gravette Middle School
"Teaching has never been an easy job, and in today’s world, it’s more challenging than ever. And yet, Gravette teachers continue to show up each day committed to our students. You all make a difference every single day, even when the work is hard and the recognition is rare. Thank you for doing one of the hardest and most important jobs in the world."
Cory Briggs Assistant Principal Gravette Middle School
"I think what I love the most about all our teachers and staff is how much they care for our most vulnerable. I have a couple grandkids that are special needs and everyone has always gone above and beyond to meet their needs, not only academically but emotionally and physically. I am so thankful for all of our teachers and staff and thankful to work here with the best of the best, and I consider all of them to be my friends. GO LIONS!!!"
Sheila Roughton Director of Food Services Gravette School District
"Our Special Education Teachers are amazing! Their patience, dedication, and unwavering support make a world of difference in the lives of our students. They go above and beyond every single day—teaching, advocating, and believing in every child's unique potential. Thank you for your compassion, creativity, and the impact you make that often goes unseen but is deeply felt. You are true heroes in education!"
Tyler Matlock Director of Special Education Gravette School District
"I am in awe of the educators in our district at all levels. They go above and beyond to do what is best for students to learn. The grace and love shown is heartwarming. As a parent of a former Gravette student, I have seen and have truly appreciated how my colleagues mentored, nurtured and coached the kids in our community. Thanks for ensuring that ALL students learn and succeed."
Lisa Thrailkill ESOL & Migrant Services Director Gravette School District