Statement Regarding Community Concerns and School Safety
De Queen Public Schools is aware of a tragic situation impacting members of our community. We understand that events like this bring concern and strong emotions for our students, families, and staff.
In recent hours, rumors have circulated through social media and other sources.
De Queen Public Schools takes all safety concerns seriously and works closely with law enforcement to investigate any reports or information brought to our attention.
At this time, based on information from law enforcement and school safety officials, there are no credible threats to De Queen Public Schools students, staff, or campuses. School safety procedures remain in place, and classes and school operations continue as normal.
Due to community concerns, there will be a heightened law enforcement presence on our campuses as an added precaution. As always, counselors, administrators, and security personnel will remain available on our campuses to support students and staff.
If parents have specific concerns, they are encouraged to contact their child’s school office.
De Queen Public Schools believes it is important to communicate directly with families and our community to provide accurate information and reassurance regarding student safety
De Queen Schools will operate on a regular schedule tomorrow, Monday, February 2, 2026. As we return to school, families are asked to remain aware that some travel conditions may still be impacted by ice, particularly on county and side roads.
Please note the following:
-Bus drivers may not be able to safely travel every road on their assigned routes. Decisions regarding specific road travel will be left to the discretion of each driver.
-Parents may need to meet the bus at a location closer to a main road if their road remains icy or unsafe.
-Families may choose to transport students to school if they feel that is the safest option.
We ask everyone to take it slow and use caution during morning travel. The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation as conditions continue to improve.
De Queen Schools will be closed Friday, January 30, 2026, due to ongoing concerns about bus travel on county and side roads.
We want to thank our staff and city crews who worked hard preparing parking lots and campus roads for a safe return. The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding. #LeopardFamily
We want to thank our staff and city crews who worked hard preparing parking lots and campus roads for a safe return. The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding. #LeopardFamily
☕❄️ Due to icy road conditions, De Queen Public Schools will not be in session Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Cozy up, Leopard Family! Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy a little hot chocolate time today. 💛🖤
#LeopardFamily
Cozy up, Leopard Family! Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy a little hot chocolate time today. 💛🖤
#LeopardFamily
🛷❄️ Due to icy road conditions, De Queen Public Schools will be closed Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Our Leopard finally decided to join in on the fun!
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy another cozy winter day, #LeopardFamily! 💛🖤
Our Leopard finally decided to join in on the fun!
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy another cozy winter day, #LeopardFamily! 💛🖤
Due to icy road conditions, De Queen Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
The safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Please continue to monitor our communication channels for updates.
Stay safe and warm.
The safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Please continue to monitor our communication channels for updates.
Stay safe and warm.
De Queen Public Schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 26, 2026.
We will continue to evaluate conditions and communicate any additional closures as soon as possible.
Stay safe and warm.
We will continue to evaluate conditions and communicate any additional closures as soon as possible.
Stay safe and warm.
De Queen Public Schools Announces Drew Dykes named De Queen Leopard Head Football Coach
The De Queen Public Schools Board of Directors approved several leadership transitions during its regular meeting Monday, Jan. 12, following the announcement that Transportation Director Todd Pinkerton will retire at the end of the school year.
As part of the approved changes, Richard Bell will assume the role of transportation director while continuing to serve as head athletic director for De Queen Public Schools. With Bell stepping away from the head football coaching position, the board approved Drew Dykes as the new De Queen High School Leopard head football coach. Dykes will also serve as assistant athletic director.
Dykes is a De Queen High School graduate and lifelong Leopard. He grew up attending Leopard football games every Friday night and went on to play for the program from 2014 through 2016. His deep connection to the school and community brings a strong sense of pride and continuity to the position.
Dykes has spent the past three seasons coaching at De Queen Public Schools, most recently serving as head junior high football coach. During that time, his teams showed significant growth, posting an overall record of 15-12, including a 14-5 mark over the last two seasons. The junior high program captured a 5A South Conference championship, the first for the program since 2014, and consistently demonstrated improvement from the first game of the season to the last.
In addition to football, Dykes has served in multiple head coaching roles, including head junior high boys basketball coach and head senior high boys and girls track coach. His coaching philosophy centers on discipline, pride, strength development, and adapting schemes to best fit the strengths of his players.
“I believe in building off a kid’s strengths and motivating our players to compete with pride and passion,” Dykes said. “In order to have success, we have to be the most disciplined team on the field.”
Athletic Director Richard Bell expressed strong confidence in the hire.
“When looking for a head coach, there are many boxes you try to check during the hiring process, including dependability, character, work ethic, discipline, player development, loyalty, and love for the sport and the town of De Queen,” Bell said. “Most coaches will check a few of those boxes, but it is rare to find one who checks them all. We are fortunate to have a coach on staff who does.
“Drew Dykes, though young in his years as a coach, has the qualities of a seasoned veteran. His character as a man and his ability to lead young men both on and off the football field are exactly what you look for in a head coach. I believe his success will be based on more than wins and losses. It will be based on the young men he helps mold into successful adults that the town of De Queen can be proud of.
“What excites me about this hire as athletic director is knowing I am hiring a coach I would trust with my own children, as well as the children of this community. Drew Dykes is that coach. He is a Leopard at heart and will do a great job leading the next chapter of De Queen football.”
As he steps into the varsity role, Dykes looks forward to coaching many of the same players he previously led at the junior high level and continuing to build on the foundation already in place.
“This opportunity means the world to me,” Dykes said. “Leopard football has been a huge part of my life, and I am honored to be trusted with this program. I am thankful to the school board, administration, Coach Bell, and this community, and I am ready to get to work.”
De Queen Public Schools looks forward to continued growth and success within the Leopard football program under Dykes’ leadership.
The De Queen Public Schools Board of Directors approved several leadership transitions during its regular meeting Monday, Jan. 12, following the announcement that Transportation Director Todd Pinkerton will retire at the end of the school year.
As part of the approved changes, Richard Bell will assume the role of transportation director while continuing to serve as head athletic director for De Queen Public Schools. With Bell stepping away from the head football coaching position, the board approved Drew Dykes as the new De Queen High School Leopard head football coach. Dykes will also serve as assistant athletic director.
Dykes is a De Queen High School graduate and lifelong Leopard. He grew up attending Leopard football games every Friday night and went on to play for the program from 2014 through 2016. His deep connection to the school and community brings a strong sense of pride and continuity to the position.
Dykes has spent the past three seasons coaching at De Queen Public Schools, most recently serving as head junior high football coach. During that time, his teams showed significant growth, posting an overall record of 15-12, including a 14-5 mark over the last two seasons. The junior high program captured a 5A South Conference championship, the first for the program since 2014, and consistently demonstrated improvement from the first game of the season to the last.
In addition to football, Dykes has served in multiple head coaching roles, including head junior high boys basketball coach and head senior high boys and girls track coach. His coaching philosophy centers on discipline, pride, strength development, and adapting schemes to best fit the strengths of his players.
“I believe in building off a kid’s strengths and motivating our players to compete with pride and passion,” Dykes said. “In order to have success, we have to be the most disciplined team on the field.”
Athletic Director Richard Bell expressed strong confidence in the hire.
“When looking for a head coach, there are many boxes you try to check during the hiring process, including dependability, character, work ethic, discipline, player development, loyalty, and love for the sport and the town of De Queen,” Bell said. “Most coaches will check a few of those boxes, but it is rare to find one who checks them all. We are fortunate to have a coach on staff who does.
“Drew Dykes, though young in his years as a coach, has the qualities of a seasoned veteran. His character as a man and his ability to lead young men both on and off the football field are exactly what you look for in a head coach. I believe his success will be based on more than wins and losses. It will be based on the young men he helps mold into successful adults that the town of De Queen can be proud of.
“What excites me about this hire as athletic director is knowing I am hiring a coach I would trust with my own children, as well as the children of this community. Drew Dykes is that coach. He is a Leopard at heart and will do a great job leading the next chapter of De Queen football.”
As he steps into the varsity role, Dykes looks forward to coaching many of the same players he previously led at the junior high level and continuing to build on the foundation already in place.
“This opportunity means the world to me,” Dykes said. “Leopard football has been a huge part of my life, and I am honored to be trusted with this program. I am thankful to the school board, administration, Coach Bell, and this community, and I am ready to get to work.”
De Queen Public Schools looks forward to continued growth and success within the Leopard football program under Dykes’ leadership.
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 December 9th.
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
or by phone at (870) 642-2426.
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 December 9th.
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
or by phone at (870) 642-2426.
Arkansas school district letter grades have been released, and we're proud to announce that our district earned a B letter grade for 2024-2025!
This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our students, teachers, staff, and families. With a 94% graduation rate and achievement scores above state averages in ELA, Math, and Science, we are moving in the right direction.
We celebrate this milestone while remaining committed to continuous growth and excellence. Every student matters, and we're focused on ensuring all our students are prepared for success in college, career, and life.
Thank you to our entire school community for your partnership and support!
Learn more about our district's performance: https://myschoolinfo.arkansas.gov/district/6701000
Learn more about Arkansas School Performance Report Cards: https://myschoolinfo.arkansas.gov/
This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our students, teachers, staff, and families. With a 94% graduation rate and achievement scores above state averages in ELA, Math, and Science, we are moving in the right direction.
We celebrate this milestone while remaining committed to continuous growth and excellence. Every student matters, and we're focused on ensuring all our students are prepared for success in college, career, and life.
Thank you to our entire school community for your partnership and support!
Learn more about our district's performance: https://myschoolinfo.arkansas.gov/district/6701000
Learn more about Arkansas School Performance Report Cards: https://myschoolinfo.arkansas.gov/
De Queen Elementary celebrated its selection for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) program with a special tree planting ceremony. Students shared original poetry and helped plant five native shade trees that will provide lasting benefits for both the playground and the community. It was a wonderful morning of learning, teamwork, and growth!
🇺🇸 Today, we honor the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our freedom. Thank you, veterans, for your courage, dedication, and service to our country. ❤️🤍💙
Wear Red Wednesday!
Join us in showing your support for Red Ribbon Week by wearing red on Wednesday, October 29th.
Let’s stand together to bring awareness to the importance of living drug-free and making healthy choices!
Join us in showing your support for Red Ribbon Week by wearing red on Wednesday, October 29th.
Let’s stand together to bring awareness to the importance of living drug-free and making healthy choices!
TAKE THIS SURVEY FOR A CHANCE TO ENTER A GIFT CARD RAFFLE!
This summer, many families received grocery money to help buy food for their kids through Summer EBT. Please take 5 minutes to share your thoughts and experiences in a short survey and get a chance to participate in a gift card giveaway!
Here is the survey link: https://shareourstrength.questionpro.com/SEBTparentsurvey
Even if you did not participate in this program, we want to hear from you. Your feedback will help make the program better for all families.
¡PARTICIPA EN ESTA ENCUESTA PARA TENER LA OPORTUNIDAD DE GANAR UNA TARJETA DE REGALO!
Este verano, muchas familias recibieron dinero para comestibles a través de Summer EBT para ayudar a comprar alimentos para sus hijos. Por favor, dedica 5 minutos a compartir tus opiniones y experiencias en una breve encuesta y tendrás la oportunidad de participar en una rifa de tarjetas de regalo.
Aquí está el enlace a la encuesta: https://shareourstrength.questionpro.com/SEBTparentsurvey
Aunque no hayas participado en este programa, queremos escuchar tu opinión. Tus comentarios ayudarán a mejorar el programa para todas las familias.
This summer, many families received grocery money to help buy food for their kids through Summer EBT. Please take 5 minutes to share your thoughts and experiences in a short survey and get a chance to participate in a gift card giveaway!
Here is the survey link: https://shareourstrength.questionpro.com/SEBTparentsurvey
Even if you did not participate in this program, we want to hear from you. Your feedback will help make the program better for all families.
¡PARTICIPA EN ESTA ENCUESTA PARA TENER LA OPORTUNIDAD DE GANAR UNA TARJETA DE REGALO!
Este verano, muchas familias recibieron dinero para comestibles a través de Summer EBT para ayudar a comprar alimentos para sus hijos. Por favor, dedica 5 minutos a compartir tus opiniones y experiencias en una breve encuesta y tendrás la oportunidad de participar en una rifa de tarjetas de regalo.
Aquí está el enlace a la encuesta: https://shareourstrength.questionpro.com/SEBTparentsurvey
Aunque no hayas participado en este programa, queremos escuchar tu opinión. Tus comentarios ayudarán a mejorar el programa para todas las familias.
🎮 Power up, Leopards! 🎮
It’s Homecoming Spirit Week, and we’re taking it to the next level!
Show your school spirit all week long!
#LeopardPride
📚 Reminder to our Leopard Family:
De Queen Public Schools will release early at 2:00 PM on Thursday, October 16th.
Parent-Teacher Conferences will take place that evening from 2:30–7:00 PM.
We look forward to seeing our parents and guardians!
School will not be in session Friday, October 17th. #LeopardFamily
👾 GAME ON, LEOPARDS! 🎮
Homecoming Spirit Week is almost here! It’s happening October 20 through 24.
This year’s theme is VIDEO GAMES!
Start planning your outfits and get ready to show your Leopard spirit! 💛🖤
#LeopardPride
De Queen Public Schools will host a flu clinic for students and staff on October 8, 2025. If you wish to participate, please fill out the form that was sent home with students and return it as soon as possible. Extra forms are available in the school office. The deadline to submit forms is September 30th. #LeopardFamily
📸 Strike a Pose, Leopards! 🐆
First day of school = photo time!
✅ Pick your grade’s sign
✅ Snap the pic
✅ Share those smiles
We even have a special sign for our teachers & staff—because we’re all one big #LeopardFamily!
📂 Download here: https://5il.co/3nimb
#LeopardPride
First day of school = photo time!
✅ Pick your grade’s sign
✅ Snap the pic
✅ Share those smiles
We even have a special sign for our teachers & staff—because we’re all one big #LeopardFamily!
📂 Download here: https://5il.co/3nimb
#LeopardPride
📣 Back to School Registration Details – De Queen School District 🐾 It’s almost time to kick off a great school year! Here’s when and where each campus will hold registration: 📍 De Queen Primary & Elementary Schools July 29 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 De Queen Middle School July 31 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM & 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 De Queen Junior High School July 31 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM 📍 De Queen High School 🎓Seniors (12th Grade): July 24 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM 📸Juniors (11th Grade): July 29 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM 📸Sophomores (10th Grade): July 31 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM 📸 All high school students will take their yearbook photos during registration. 🎓 Seniors will also take cap & gown pictures. 💻 DHS Students will receive their Chromebooks at registration. 💉 Nurses will be available at all locations to provide immunizations if needed.
