The sights and sounds of the first day of the 25-26 school year went a little something like this! 🏫 Kind smiles, BIG hugs, free breakfast for every student (which will be all year long), nervous/excited chatter, a 3rd-grade boy saying "I JUST HAVE SO MANY EMOTIONS THIS MORNING. I CAN'T CONTAIN THE EXCITEMENT IN MY BODY" (😆), and so many more great moments.
We also want to recognize that the first day comes with a flip side of emotions - nerves, uncertainty, change, trying to find friends, and learning new routines. It's hard for both student and parent, but we are here for you! There is no such thing as a dumb question or asking too many times. We want to serve you and make this the best year yet! 🎉 #Limitless #PantherNation
We also want to recognize that the first day comes with a flip side of emotions - nerves, uncertainty, change, trying to find friends, and learning new routines. It's hard for both student and parent, but we are here for you! There is no such thing as a dumb question or asking too many times. We want to serve you and make this the best year yet! 🎉 #Limitless #PantherNation
Yesterday, we had the incredible opportunity to welcome back all 650+ staff members of SSSD’s Panther Nation at our annual "Back to School Breakfast," generously hosted by the Siloam Springs Chamber of Commerce! 🐾 Every year, we’re truly blown away by the outpouring of support from our amazing community and local businesses—and this year was no exception.
We also unveiled our new theme for the year: LIMITLESS — a powerful reminder that there are no boundaries to what we can achieve together. (Shoutout to Arvest of Siloam Springs for the awesome matching t-shirts!)
We were honored to welcome back SSSD alumna Makenzie Porter as our morning keynote speaker. She shared how she embraces a limitless life, inspiring us all to do the same. In the afternoon, Willow Sweeney from Top 20 Training delivered an energizing session, encouraging our staff to live “above the line” and be the most productive, effective versions of themselves.
One Allen Elementary teacher summed up the day perfectly:
“I laughed, I cried, and I just genuinely enjoyed myself. Thank you SO much to the Siloam Springs community.”
We couldn’t agree more. Here's to supporting one another and making this school year truly LIMITLESS. #PantherNation #Limitless
We also unveiled our new theme for the year: LIMITLESS — a powerful reminder that there are no boundaries to what we can achieve together. (Shoutout to Arvest of Siloam Springs for the awesome matching t-shirts!)
We were honored to welcome back SSSD alumna Makenzie Porter as our morning keynote speaker. She shared how she embraces a limitless life, inspiring us all to do the same. In the afternoon, Willow Sweeney from Top 20 Training delivered an energizing session, encouraging our staff to live “above the line” and be the most productive, effective versions of themselves.
One Allen Elementary teacher summed up the day perfectly:
“I laughed, I cried, and I just genuinely enjoyed myself. Thank you SO much to the Siloam Springs community.”
We couldn’t agree more. Here's to supporting one another and making this school year truly LIMITLESS. #PantherNation #Limitless
REMINDER ❗ The School Board meeting will be NEXT Thursday, August 14th, at 5:30 pm inside the admin building board room (3050 Cheri Whitlock Dr).
🟢Click here to watch live: https://www.youtube.com/@siloamspringspublicschools8802/streams
Heads up, parents and guardians ‼ All offices in our district will be CLOSED TOMORROW due to an internal, district-wide event for our staff members. Offices will reopen on Thursday, August 7th. Thank you!
📵 Reminder: Bell to Bell, No Cell Phone Policy 📵 This school year, Arkansas schools — including ours — are implementing the new Bell to Bell No Cell Phone law. This means that students may not use personal electronic devices during the instructional day, from the first bell to the last.
We know many parents and guardians have concerns, especially when it comes to student mental health and emergencies. The most common worry we’ve heard is: “My child uses their phone as a safety net. What if they have anxiety or need to reach me? What if there’s an emergency at home?”
We understand. Truly. The uncertainty of not being able to instantly check in with your child or receive a quick “I’m okay” text is tough — especially in today’s world.
That’s why we are strongly encouraging all parents and guardians to:
✅ Talk with your child about this new law.
✅ Help them understand what it means and what the expectations are.
✅ Discuss what they can do if they begin to feel overwhelmed without their phone.
Here’s what students can do:
- Schedule a time to meet with a school counselor to develop healthy coping strategies.
-Ask to go to the office if there’s a legitimate emergency and call home.
-Parents/guardians can always call the school if you need to speak with your child during the day.
We are in this together — and just like you, we’re learning how to best navigate this new law in a way that supports our students’ academic success and emotional well-being. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
For more information and answers to frequently asked questions, visit:
🔗 https://www.siloamschools.com/page/belltobellnocell
We know many parents and guardians have concerns, especially when it comes to student mental health and emergencies. The most common worry we’ve heard is: “My child uses their phone as a safety net. What if they have anxiety or need to reach me? What if there’s an emergency at home?”
We understand. Truly. The uncertainty of not being able to instantly check in with your child or receive a quick “I’m okay” text is tough — especially in today’s world.
That’s why we are strongly encouraging all parents and guardians to:
✅ Talk with your child about this new law.
✅ Help them understand what it means and what the expectations are.
✅ Discuss what they can do if they begin to feel overwhelmed without their phone.
Here’s what students can do:
- Schedule a time to meet with a school counselor to develop healthy coping strategies.
-Ask to go to the office if there’s a legitimate emergency and call home.
-Parents/guardians can always call the school if you need to speak with your child during the day.
We are in this together — and just like you, we’re learning how to best navigate this new law in a way that supports our students’ academic success and emotional well-being. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
For more information and answers to frequently asked questions, visit:
🔗 https://www.siloamschools.com/page/belltobellnocell
‼ Just a friendly reminder ‼ The Panther Health and Wellness Center, in partnership with Bright Futures of Siloam Springs, invites you to join us for the Health Fair this Saturday, starting at 10 AM! While registration for backpack distribution has closed, we still encourage you to come enjoy the health fair and all the exciting activities planned. 🎉 We can’t wait to see you there!
We’re proud to share that many of our building administrators are currently attending the AAEA (Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators) Conference in Little Rock—gathering alongside leaders from across the state to learn, collaborate, and grow. And this morning brought incredible news worth celebrating... 🎉
✨ Valerie King, our Director of Academic Support and Gifted & Talented, was named Administrator of the Year for the entire state of Arkansas by the Arkansas Association of Gifted Education Administrators (AAGEA)! This prestigious honor reflects Valerie’s unwavering dedication to students, tireless advocacy for gifted learners, and outstanding leadership across our district. We are beyond proud of her and grateful for the impact she makes every single day. Congratulations, Mrs. King! 🐾 #PantherNation
✨ Valerie King, our Director of Academic Support and Gifted & Talented, was named Administrator of the Year for the entire state of Arkansas by the Arkansas Association of Gifted Education Administrators (AAGEA)! This prestigious honor reflects Valerie’s unwavering dedication to students, tireless advocacy for gifted learners, and outstanding leadership across our district. We are beyond proud of her and grateful for the impact she makes every single day. Congratulations, Mrs. King! 🐾 #PantherNation
Starting this fall, breakfast will be free for all students—thanks to a new state law! We’re also encouraging every household to complete the Free & Reduced Lunch Application, even if you don’t believe your family qualifies. Submitting this form helps our schools in more ways than you might think.
In addition to supporting access to meals, qualifying for free or reduced-price meals can open the door to extra benefits, including:
-Discounted internet service
-Reduced ACT and SAT test fees
-Lower college application and enrollment costs
-Increased funding for student programs and services
Even if you don’t qualify, your completed application still makes a difference. The number of submitted forms helps determine the amount of funding our district receives for important student services and resources. Your information is kept confidential, and only one application per household is required. You can complete it online here:
🔗 https://secure.ezmealapp.com/ApplicationScreen.aspx
Prefer a paper copy? Paper applications will be available at each school’s Open House. Need help? Reach out to Louise Thomsen at 479-524-3191 ext. 10133 or thomsenl@gosiloam.com.
Thank you for partnering with us to support Panther students and ensure they have access to the resources they need to succeed—both inside and outside the classroom. Go, Panthers!
In addition to supporting access to meals, qualifying for free or reduced-price meals can open the door to extra benefits, including:
-Discounted internet service
-Reduced ACT and SAT test fees
-Lower college application and enrollment costs
-Increased funding for student programs and services
Even if you don’t qualify, your completed application still makes a difference. The number of submitted forms helps determine the amount of funding our district receives for important student services and resources. Your information is kept confidential, and only one application per household is required. You can complete it online here:
🔗 https://secure.ezmealapp.com/ApplicationScreen.aspx
Prefer a paper copy? Paper applications will be available at each school’s Open House. Need help? Reach out to Louise Thomsen at 479-524-3191 ext. 10133 or thomsenl@gosiloam.com.
Thank you for partnering with us to support Panther students and ensure they have access to the resources they need to succeed—both inside and outside the classroom. Go, Panthers!
This past week has been full of learning, growth, and connection—for our district leaders, directors, principals, assistant principals, and our new teachers! With the first day of school just a few weeks away, the excitement in the air is hard to miss. 🥳 Throughout the many trainings and sessions, one thing stood out: LAUGHTER. Yes, there were serious conversations, powerful moments of learning, and important planning—but there was also joy. There was lightness in the room. People were smiling, joking with one another, and genuinely enjoying being together. That feeling of camaraderie and shared purpose has us walking away thinking: “This is going to be a GREAT year.”
Let’s go, Panther Nation! 🐾✨
Let’s go, Panther Nation! 🐾✨
Don’t forget to check off “Back to School Forms” on your 2025-26 to-do list before Open Houses! Completing the online paperwork ahead of time means less hassle and stress during that busy first week of school—because no one wants to deal with last-minute paperwork when the school year is just getting started. Get everything ready early for a smooth start! #PantherNation
Don’t forget! Our first Guest Teacher training has already come and gone—but there’s still one more opportunity to join us! Whether you’re between careers, a stay-at-home parent, or a retiree looking to make a difference (or earn a little extra income), we’d love to welcome you as a Guest Teacher—our term for substitute teachers. You’ll have the flexibility to choose when you work, all while making a meaningful impact in our schools and community. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Panther Nation!
🐾 Panther Daycare is looking better than ever! 🐾One of the biggest perks of working for the Siloam Springs School District? Access to the Panther Daycare—our on-site daycare offering a significant discount compared to other local providers.
🎨 Bright classrooms
🧸 Loving staff
📚 Early learning opportunities
❤️ And peace of mind knowing your little one is just around the corner while you work!
This is more than just childcare—it's a huge benefit for SSSD staff members. If you're considering a career in education (or are already part of our Panther Nation), this is just one of the many reasons Siloam is the place to be!
📍 Come for the career.
💼 Stay for the benefits.
👶 Bring your little one with you.
🎨 Bright classrooms
🧸 Loving staff
📚 Early learning opportunities
❤️ And peace of mind knowing your little one is just around the corner while you work!
This is more than just childcare—it's a huge benefit for SSSD staff members. If you're considering a career in education (or are already part of our Panther Nation), this is just one of the many reasons Siloam is the place to be!
📍 Come for the career.
💼 Stay for the benefits.
👶 Bring your little one with you.
☀️ Summer hours are coming to a close, and we're getting back to our regular schedule! Starting this week, all school offices and our district administration office will be open Monday through Friday during normal business hours. We’re excited to welcome everyone back and help you get ready for the new school year! 🐾📚 #PantherNation
Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, under the new Arkansas Law ( Act 122), students will not be permitted to possess or use personal electronic devices during the school day—from the time students are required to be at school until the time students are dismissed from school. This is to ensure a productive, respectful, and safe learning environment. To learn more and see the most frequently asked questions, click here: https://www.siloamschools.com/page/belltobellnocell
Prohibited devices under this law include (but are not limited to):
-Cell phones
-Smart watches
-Pagers and beepers
-Mobile phones with internet/computing features
-Digital media players
-Portable game consoles
-Tablets, notebooks, and laptops
-Digital cameras
-Audio/video recorders
-Earbuds, AirPods
-Any Bluetooth-enabled device capable of data transmission
Prohibited devices under this law include (but are not limited to):
-Cell phones
-Smart watches
-Pagers and beepers
-Mobile phones with internet/computing features
-Digital media players
-Portable game consoles
-Tablets, notebooks, and laptops
-Digital cameras
-Audio/video recorders
-Earbuds, AirPods
-Any Bluetooth-enabled device capable of data transmission
🚨 We're Hiring in Special Education! 🚨 Passionate about making a difference? Join the Special Education team at Siloam Springs School District! 🌟 Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, we’re looking for dedicated individuals who believe in the power of inclusion, support, and student success.
🏡 Live in Oklahoma? No problem!
We’re closer than you think:
📍 11 minutes from Watts, OK
📍 20 minutes from Colcord & Kansas, OK
📍 37 minutes from Jay, OK
📍 60 minutes from Sallisaw, OK
Make a short drive for a big impact. Come join the Panther Nation! 📲 Apply today: https://siloamschools.schoolspring.com/
🏡 Live in Oklahoma? No problem!
We’re closer than you think:
📍 11 minutes from Watts, OK
📍 20 minutes from Colcord & Kansas, OK
📍 37 minutes from Jay, OK
📍 60 minutes from Sallisaw, OK
Make a short drive for a big impact. Come join the Panther Nation! 📲 Apply today: https://siloamschools.schoolspring.com/
Happy 4th of July from the SSSD Administration Office! Wishing all our Panther students, families, and staff a safe and joyful Independence Day! ❤️🤍💙 #PantherNation
REMINDER ❗ The School Board meeting will be NEXT Thursday, July 10th, at 5:30 pm inside the admin building board room (3050 Cheri Whitlock Dr).
🟢Click here to watch live: https://www.youtube.com/@siloamspringspublicschools8802/streams
Are you between careers, a stay-at-home parent, or a retiree looking to make a difference—or even earn a little extra income on the side? We’d love to welcome you as one of our Guest Teachers (our term for substitute teachers)! With two training sessions available this summer, now is the perfect time to get involved. As a Guest Teacher, you’ll have the flexibility to choose when you work, while making a meaningful impact in our schools and community. Join us and become a valued part of Panther Nation! 🐾
2025–2026 School Supplies Update 📚 This year, things look a little different when it comes to school supplies! We are excited to announce that the majority of school supplies for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade will be provided by the district! That means families only need to purchase the few specific items listed for their child’s grade level—nothing more. We understand that “back-to-school shopping” is a special tradition for many families, and we still want you to enjoy that experience. But we also recognize that times are tough, and even with the district supplying the majority of items, it can still be a financial strain.
🎒 Need a little extra support? We encourage families to register for the Bright Futures Backpack Distribution, happening Saturday, August 2nd from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM. NOTE: Registration is required by July 21st to participate. (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSenEWQvvVJIjmd2YTSFiYenPV-j5oraQ4gaHhSuM4Ii_Wv1_g/viewform)
We’re proud to support our Panther families and help every student start the school year strong! 🐾
We are thrilled to introduce the newest Siloam Springs School District team members! 👏👏👏 Please join us in welcoming them to the Panther Nation.
