Lion Pride Spotlight offers a close look at the staff that shape Gravette Schools; exploring their paths into education, the experiences shaping their leadership, and their commitment to student success. This edition highlights Fran Howard, who stepped into the role of principal at Gravette High School for the 2026–2027 school year.
On any given day, Principal Howard can be spotted working at a mobile desk in the hallway. This deliberate setup allows her to remain accessible to students and staff as they move through the school, and serves as a visible reminder of her commitment to transparent leadership.
Howard’s approach to education is deeply rooted in her upbringing in England, Arkansas, where she attended the same school district from kindergarten through graduation. Small-town life shaped her approach to schools as places built around relationships, shared responsibility, and service. She brought that mindset to her career, teaching and serving in administration across North Little Rock, Beebe, Bald Knob, and Lonoke.
Principal Howard greeting a student at her mobile desk in the hallway.
Athletics also played a defining role in her professional development. With 21 years of experience coaching basketball and track, Howard views coaching as foundational to her administrative approach.
“Coaching taught me how to motivate individuals with different personalities and strengths, navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and remain steady when things do not go as planned,” Howard reflected.
After more than two decades in the classroom, Howard moved into administration to broaden her impact. Her mission is ensuring teachers feel fully supported and students feel genuinely seen. At Gravette High School, that means pairing clear expectations with consistent support. She strives to create opportunities for students to build confidence, take responsibility, and grow on a personal level.
Howard succeeds Shannon Mitchell, who retired in 2026 after serving a decade as principal. Howard quickly recognized the strength of Gravette’s school culture and long history of community ties.
“What stands out to me is that the people of Gravette genuinely believe that the success of our school belongs to all of us,” said Howard. “Our teachers and staff, students, parents, community members, and volunteers each play an important role in making Gravette a great place to live and learn. There is a shared pride in wearing the title of Gravette Lion, and I believe that sense of belonging and ownership is one of our greatest strengths.”
That shared purpose aligns seamlessly with her core leadership philosophy.
“As educators, our job is not simply to teach content, but to inspire confidence, build character, identify potential, and help students see possibilities for their future that they may not yet see for themselves,” Howard shared, “When students know someone believes in them and refuses to give up on them, they are far more likely to believe in themselves. Every student is one caring adult away from being a success story.“
Outside of her professional work, Howard recharges through gardening, hiking, and spending time on the water. Above all, her family remains at the center of her life.
“My greatest source of pride and joy is my family,” she said, “My two sons make me proud every single day. Watching them grow into responsible, compassionate, independent adults has been one of the greatest blessings of my life.”
As Fran Howard begins her first year leading Gravette High School, her focus is on learning the people, traditions, and daily work that shape the school. We look forward to her leadership and ongoing contributions to the ever-evolving traditions of Gravette Schools.
Gravette School District extends its gratitude to Principal Howard for her warmth, leadership, and investment in our students as she leads this exciting new chapter for GHS.