The 2026-2027 school calendar for De Queen Public Schools is now available! 🐾
We know families like to plan ahead, so be sure to save a copy and refer back to it throughout the year for important dates, holidays, breaks, and school events.
You can also visit our website for a printable copy here: https://aptg.co/2HlvmT
We know families like to plan ahead, so be sure to save a copy and refer back to it throughout the year for important dates, holidays, breaks, and school events.
You can also visit our website for a printable copy here: https://aptg.co/2HlvmT
We are thankful for the leadership of Nurse Supervisor Kayla Watkins and the dedication of every school nurse across our district. Your care makes a difference every single day. Happy National Nurses Day to all of our De Queen Public Schools nurses.
#LeopardFamily
#LeopardFamily
Happy School Lunch Hero Day! Today, we celebrate our staff that makes our school lunches the best! They show up early, work hard, and care for our students like their own. Take a behind-the-scenes look at our School Lunch Heroes.
https://youtu.be/JmSOSSaWka8
Today we celebrate the incredible people who help start and end each school day with care, patience, and a smile, our bus drivers! 🚌💛
Rain or shine, early mornings and long afternoons, they safely transport our students and play an important role in their daily lives. Their kindness, dedication, and commitment do not go unnoticed.
Thank you to all of our De Queen Public Schools bus drivers for the care you show our students and families each and every day. We appreciate all you do to keep our Leopards moving! 🐆
Rain or shine, early mornings and long afternoons, they safely transport our students and play an important role in their daily lives. Their kindness, dedication, and commitment do not go unnoticed.
Thank you to all of our De Queen Public Schools bus drivers for the care you show our students and families each and every day. We appreciate all you do to keep our Leopards moving! 🐆
De Queen School District Board Vacancy – Zone 4
The De Queen School District Board of Directors announces a vacancy for the Zone 4 Representative position effective July 1, 2026.
All application paperwork must be submitted by Wednesday, May 27, 2026, by the end of the business day.
The Board will meet on June 8, 2026, in the Administration Building Board Room to appoint an individual to fill this vacancy.
Qualifications to be considered for appointment:
An individual who wishes to be considered shall:
• Be a qualified elector who resides in the District or District zone, if applicable
• Submit a petition to the District that:
– States the individual’s intention to be considered for the appointment
– Is signed by at least twenty (20) qualified electors who reside within the District or the District zone where the vacancy exists
– Is submitted at least ten (10) days before the meeting date to fill the vacancy
For additional information, including petition requirements and required forms, please see the links below:
• School Board Zone Overview Map: https://aptg.co/S6JHbr
• Zone 4 Boundary Map: https://aptg.co/TrT-g-
• Sample Petition Form: https://aptg.co/nlvpN_
The Board invites qualified candidates to apply and values the community’s involvement in filling this important position.
The De Queen School District Board of Directors announces a vacancy for the Zone 4 Representative position effective July 1, 2026.
All application paperwork must be submitted by Wednesday, May 27, 2026, by the end of the business day.
The Board will meet on June 8, 2026, in the Administration Building Board Room to appoint an individual to fill this vacancy.
Qualifications to be considered for appointment:
An individual who wishes to be considered shall:
• Be a qualified elector who resides in the District or District zone, if applicable
• Submit a petition to the District that:
– States the individual’s intention to be considered for the appointment
– Is signed by at least twenty (20) qualified electors who reside within the District or the District zone where the vacancy exists
– Is submitted at least ten (10) days before the meeting date to fill the vacancy
For additional information, including petition requirements and required forms, please see the links below:
• School Board Zone Overview Map: https://aptg.co/S6JHbr
• Zone 4 Boundary Map: https://aptg.co/TrT-g-
• Sample Petition Form: https://aptg.co/nlvpN_
The Board invites qualified candidates to apply and values the community’s involvement in filling this important position.
A Remarkable Achievement Worth Celebrating
De Queen Public Schools is proud to recognize an incredible milestone accomplished by Azulenny Ponce, who has maintained perfect attendance from kindergarten through 12th grade.
That’s 13 years of dedication, commitment, and perseverance—an achievement that truly sets her apart.
Azulenny was recognized today during the Academic Awards Ceremony for this outstanding accomplishment. Her consistency and work ethic serve as an example to all students.
She is the daughter of Jacinto Ponce and Dori Gutierrez.
Please join us in congratulating Azulenny on this extraordinary achievement!
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
De Queen Public Schools is proud to recognize an incredible milestone accomplished by Azulenny Ponce, who has maintained perfect attendance from kindergarten through 12th grade.
That’s 13 years of dedication, commitment, and perseverance—an achievement that truly sets her apart.
Azulenny was recognized today during the Academic Awards Ceremony for this outstanding accomplishment. Her consistency and work ethic serve as an example to all students.
She is the daughter of Jacinto Ponce and Dori Gutierrez.
Please join us in congratulating Azulenny on this extraordinary achievement!
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
Today we celebrate Administrative Professionals Day and the individuals across De Queen Public Schools who help keep our campuses running each and every day.
From the front office to behind-the-scenes support, your organization, dedication, and care make a difference for our students, staff, and families.
Thank you for all you do for our schools and our #LeopardFamily. We appreciate you!
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
From the front office to behind-the-scenes support, your organization, dedication, and care make a difference for our students, staff, and families.
Thank you for all you do for our schools and our #LeopardFamily. We appreciate you!
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
Reminder to our #LeopardFamily!
De Queen Public Schools will not be in session on Monday, April 20, 2026.
School will resume on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
De Queen Public Schools will not be in session on Monday, April 20, 2026.
School will resume on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
Partner With Us & Shape Future Talent!
De Queen High School is looking for local businesses to join our Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program. This is a great opportunity to invest in students while gaining motivated, real-world ready talent for your business.
Interested in partnering with us? Complete our quick Google Form (link & QR code below) to share your needs and get started.
Deadline: May 8
We appreciate your support in building tomorrow’s workforce! #LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
Link: https://forms.gle/5Z8RE1LmxNE2Ehd36
De Queen High School is looking for local businesses to join our Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program. This is a great opportunity to invest in students while gaining motivated, real-world ready talent for your business.
Interested in partnering with us? Complete our quick Google Form (link & QR code below) to share your needs and get started.
Deadline: May 8
We appreciate your support in building tomorrow’s workforce! #LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
Link: https://forms.gle/5Z8RE1LmxNE2Ehd36
De Queen School District Accepting Referrals for Gifted & Talented Program
The De Queen School District is now accepting referrals for the Gifted and Talented (GT) Program. We are seeking students who demonstrate exceptional abilities in areas such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, leadership, and academic achievement.
Referrals are open for students in grades 3–12, and all submissions are due by April 30th.
Families, teachers, and community members who wish to refer a student—or anyone who would like more information—may contact Krystal Minchew at kminchew@dequeenleopards.org.
The De Queen School District is now accepting referrals for the Gifted and Talented (GT) Program. We are seeking students who demonstrate exceptional abilities in areas such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, leadership, and academic achievement.
Referrals are open for students in grades 3–12, and all submissions are due by April 30th.
Families, teachers, and community members who wish to refer a student—or anyone who would like more information—may contact Krystal Minchew at kminchew@dequeenleopards.org.
📚 Parent/Teacher Conferences at De Queen Public Schools
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, March 14, from 2:30–7:00 P.M.
🕑 Early dismissal at 2:00 P.M.
Students will be dismissed, and buses will run at 2:00.
We encourage all families to take this opportunity to connect with teachers and partner together for student success. We look forward to seeing you! #LeopardFamily
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, March 14, from 2:30–7:00 P.M.
🕑 Early dismissal at 2:00 P.M.
Students will be dismissed, and buses will run at 2:00.
We encourage all families to take this opportunity to connect with teachers and partner together for student success. We look forward to seeing you! #LeopardFamily
Please help us celebrate our 2026 High School Teacher of the Year, Mr. Lester!
Mr. Lester, who teaches Geometry and Biology, goes above and beyond for students and is always looking for ways to make De Queen High School a better place. His peers look up to him, and he is very deserving of this honor. Through his dedication to both mathematics and science, he consistently supports student success and contributes positively to our school environment.
Congratulations, Mr. Lester! 👏🧪📐 #LeopardFamily #LeopardPride
Mr. Lester, who teaches Geometry and Biology, goes above and beyond for students and is always looking for ways to make De Queen High School a better place. His peers look up to him, and he is very deserving of this honor. Through his dedication to both mathematics and science, he consistently supports student success and contributes positively to our school environment.
Congratulations, Mr. Lester! 👏🧪📐 #LeopardFamily #LeopardPride
Congratulations to our 2026 Middle School Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Sarah Ester!
Mrs. Ester, who teaches 6th and 7th-grade math, has a natural ability to connect with students and build their confidence. She creates a welcoming classroom environment where students feel supported and ready to learn. Through her patient instruction and steady encouragement, she helps students strengthen their math skills while developing confidence in their abilities.
Way to go, Mrs. Ester! 📊👏 #LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
We are proud to celebrate our 2026 Primary Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Katherine Smith!
Mrs. Smith has been named the De Queen Primary Teacher of the Year. Principal Amy Barker describes her as “the heart of our primary building,” noting that students are greeted daily with warmth, encouragement, and a contagious love for music. Mrs. Smith helps young learners find their voices, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing together.
Congratulations, Mrs. Smith! 🎶👏 #LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
We are proud to recognize Mrs. Sue Smith as our 2026 Junior High Teacher of the Year!
As the 8th and 9th grade librarian, Mrs. Smith supports research, instruction, and academic growth while consistently going above and beyond to assist both students and faculty. Her dedication and professionalism make her an invaluable part of our campus.
Congratulations, Mrs. Smith! 👏📚 #LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
Please join us in congratulating our 2026 Elementary Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Holly Click!
Mrs. Click, a third-grade teacher with 23 years of service to the district, exemplifies excellence through her dedication to student growth and achievement. A true team player, she supports both colleagues and students, and her strong work ethic is reflected in the consistent progress her students make each year.
We are so proud of you, Mrs. Click! 👏🍎 #LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
De Queen Public Schools is proud to announce our 2026 Teachers of the Year! Each campus selected an outstanding educator who exemplifies dedication, excellence, and a commitment to student success.
🎉 Katherine Smith – De Queen Primary
🎉 Holly Click – De Queen Elementary
🎉 Sarah Ester – De Queen Middle School
🎉 Sue Smith – De Queen Junior High
🎉 Steve Lester – De Queen High School
All building Teachers of the Year will be recognized at the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Banquet on February 26, where the District Teacher of the Year will be announced.
Join us in congratulating these incredible educators! 👏🍎
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
🎉 Katherine Smith – De Queen Primary
🎉 Holly Click – De Queen Elementary
🎉 Sarah Ester – De Queen Middle School
🎉 Sue Smith – De Queen Junior High
🎉 Steve Lester – De Queen High School
All building Teachers of the Year will be recognized at the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce Banquet on February 26, where the District Teacher of the Year will be announced.
Join us in congratulating these incredible educators! 👏🍎
#LeopardPride #LeopardFamily
De Queen Public Schools will observe Winter Break on Friday, February 13th and Monday, February 16th. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 17th, with our updated bell schedule beginning that day.
⏰ School hours will be 7:55 a.m. – 3:23 p.m.
We hope our Leopard family enjoys a restful break!
⏰ School hours will be 7:55 a.m. – 3:23 p.m.
We hope our Leopard family enjoys a restful break!
📢Schedule Update for Our Leopard Family📢
Due to inclement weather earlier this school year, De Queen School District missed five instructional days. Two weather days were built into the calendar, so the district is required to make up the remaining three instructional days. To recover this time, the school schedule will be adjusted beginning **Tuesday, February 17, 2026**.
🕗 New School Day Times:
✔ School Starts: 7:55 AM
✔ School Dismisses: 3:23 PM
⏱ How Time Is Being Added:
• 5 minutes added to the beginning of the day
• 13 minutes added to the end of the day
🚌 Transportation Update:
Morning bus routes will run at their normal times. Afternoon bus routes will run slightly later to match the new dismissal time.
This adjustment allows the last day of school to remain May 22, 2026, as long as no additional weather days are missed.
Thank you for your flexibility and support as we work to ensure our students receive the instructional time required.
Due to inclement weather earlier this school year, De Queen School District missed five instructional days. Two weather days were built into the calendar, so the district is required to make up the remaining three instructional days. To recover this time, the school schedule will be adjusted beginning **Tuesday, February 17, 2026**.
🕗 New School Day Times:
✔ School Starts: 7:55 AM
✔ School Dismisses: 3:23 PM
⏱ How Time Is Being Added:
• 5 minutes added to the beginning of the day
• 13 minutes added to the end of the day
🚌 Transportation Update:
Morning bus routes will run at their normal times. Afternoon bus routes will run slightly later to match the new dismissal time.
This adjustment allows the last day of school to remain May 22, 2026, as long as no additional weather days are missed.
Thank you for your flexibility and support as we work to ensure our students receive the instructional time required.
Statement Regarding Threatening Social Media Post
De Queen Public Schools became aware on Saturday, February 7th, of a threatening social media post made by a student that was directed toward other students.
School administration immediately reported the information to law enforcement. Law enforcement officials have addressed the situation. The juvenile was taken into police custody and is currently being held at a juvenile detention facility.
Based on the seriousness of this incident, the district will be recommending expulsion of the student in accordance with district policy and state guidelines.
At this time, no additional threats have been identified. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority, and we will continue working closely with law enforcement to monitor and address any concerns.
Counselors, administrators, and security personnel remain available on our campuses to support students and staff. If parents or community members have specific concerns, they are encouraged to contact their child’s school office.
De Queen Public Schools remains committed to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
De Queen Public Schools became aware on Saturday, February 7th, of a threatening social media post made by a student that was directed toward other students.
School administration immediately reported the information to law enforcement. Law enforcement officials have addressed the situation. The juvenile was taken into police custody and is currently being held at a juvenile detention facility.
Based on the seriousness of this incident, the district will be recommending expulsion of the student in accordance with district policy and state guidelines.
At this time, no additional threats have been identified. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority, and we will continue working closely with law enforcement to monitor and address any concerns.
Counselors, administrators, and security personnel remain available on our campuses to support students and staff. If parents or community members have specific concerns, they are encouraged to contact their child’s school office.
De Queen Public Schools remains committed to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.