The Arkansas School Boards Association (ASBA) announced that January is School Board Member Recognition Month in Arkansas. School board members play an essential role in our community. The Magnolia School District will join other districts in Arkansas in celebration of our board by thanking them for the time, talents, and knowledge they bring to our district and for their commitment to the families and children of our community. The elected school board members give our Magnolia citizens a voice in education decision making. Superintendent John Ward stated, “While we make a special effort to show our appreciation in January, their contribution is a year-round commitment.”
The members serving the Magnolia School District are Emily Jester, Roger Loper, Jason Ray, Steven Souter, and Mike Waters.
The school board member spotlight for today is Roger Loper. Mr. Loper is a 1971 graduate from Magnolia High School. Roger began his career with the Trumann School District before moving back home in the fall of 1978. He served 40 years in public education before retiring as principal of Magnolia High School in 2016. Roger was first elected to the Magnolia School Board in 2017 and serves Zone 2. He currently serves as vice-president of the school board and his term will expire in 2023.