District councilors speaking to board members Thursday evening
The Mountain Home Public Schools (MHPS) Board met for just over an hour Thursday evening in its final meeting of 2025.
Among the action items, the board unanimously approved the purchase of a 2025 Collins 28-passenger school bus at a cost of $105,900. District officials said the bus being replaced has more than 144,000 miles and ongoing mechanical problems that have become too costly to continue repairing.
The board also approved a resolution regarding emergency air service plans offered to district employees. The plans are paid through employee direct deposit and do not use district funds. Insurance Marketplace, owned by board member Tommy Knight, does business with Air Med Care Network, which provides the plans. In accordance with Arkansas Act 1599, which requires public disclosure of potential related-party transactions, the board acknowledged the relationship in the interest of transparency. The arrangement existed prior to Knight joining the board. All members voted in favor of the resolution, with Knight recusing himself.
MHPS Safety and Security Coordinator Eddie Helmert provided a year end security update. Helmert highlighted the district’s “See Something, Say Something” program, which allows students to report concerning behavior, including vaping. New interior door knobs have been installed districtwide, automatically locking when doors are closed. Decals were added to a security vehicle donated by Clay Maxey. Recent lockdown drills were completed, and lockdown shades have been installed in classroom door windows.
Additional security improvements include a new back gate installed behind the high school near the agriculture building, with another planned near the cafeteria that will close the road during school hours and overnight. A weapons detection system known as Entry Shield has been installed in the gym and is expected to be used for the first time at Monday’s home game. Helmert also announced the district received a grant for new radios and will take sealed bids for the equipment. The system would allow school resource officers to communicate instantly across campuses on a secure network.
Ten district counselors were recognized during the meeting, marking the first time all counselors appeared before the board together. They spoke about their work supporting students throughout the year and the increased challenges many families and students face during the holidays. Counselors also noted they provide support to teachers and often respond directly during times of crisis.
During board discussion, President Jason Schmeski reminded members to allow each other time to speak and avoid side conversations, noting that overlapping discussion can make it difficult for both members and livestream viewers to follow proceedings. He also emphasized that board business discussions must be conducted during official meetings, not privately.
Superintendent Allison Dewey addressed the upcoming Christmas break for students and staff and announced the next board meeting will be held January 15, 2026.
The board entered executive session and accepted the retirement of Hackler teacher Norma Prentiss and the resignation of Junior High teacher/ coach Tilda Helgesson. Other district employee resignations were accepted as well as stipend approvals.
Follow this link to view the complete Personnel Report.
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