Ashdown High School

Dear Parents and Students of Ashdown High School of Innovation:

A great year is in store for all with a huge repertoire of innovative opportunities for all beginning in 9th grade with a new Associates Degree program in which students that aspire to reach for this high accelerated program early and graduate with both a high school diploma as well as an Associate Degree.  Courses begin in 9th grade for those that wish and have reached specific criteria on the Accplacer and or ACT Aspire. 

Our course selections for careers begin early with students exploring medical, business, science, social sciences, and ELA.  Physical education classes have expanded to a physical wellness class that is open to all students both athletes and non atheletes. 

Computer Science opportunities to expand knowledge and skills in this area both in math and business provide opportunities for students to ramp up their skills and go forward. 

Extracurricular activities continue to provide opportunities for students with far-reaching interests such as esports, golf, and cross country. Our Purple Pride Marching Band continues to provide over 40 students with a wealth of opportunities to develop skills in performing and music knowledge and skills.  Our drama /theater production classes produce two elaborate productions each year with a multi-talented group of students from grades 9 - 12.  Our art department provides art appreciation as well as visual and ceramics which make for a great program of study.  

A very successful HUB program in which our school meets the vast array of student needs and those we often think will not graduate find success and succeed with diplomas that demonstrate determination and hard work. 

Career exploration and real-world application are provided through our JAG program (Jobs for America Graduates), Lockesburg Industrial Maintenance Center, and Work Keys while connecting  students with employers as well as working with students on required skills for the workforce, 

Our School of Innovation allows us the flexibility to provide a vast array of career opportunities for students that are not limited to after they graduate but before graduation to familiarize and develop skills. 

Community connections and mentors are sought after continuously as we value this support and welcome them into our school community. 

AP Scholars last Spring totaled over 12 students. Our Educational Foundation presented AP awards in the amount of over $850 to students that scored 3, 4, or 5 on their AP exams this past spring.  Baseball and softball both went to state.  We had several students receive National recognition in Skills USA and FBLA.  Several of our athletes in track met and surpassed State records this year with amazing performances.  Wrestling and esports continue to grow along with our Trap shooting team who had a great winning season.  

Our High School Staff consists of 65% with Master's degrees or higher.  New staff  to Ashdown High School this year are the following: 

Commeka Marshall - graduate of AHS - Custodian

Sonja Green - graduate of AHS - Para - Commons

Jasmine Montgomery - graduate of AHS - Custodian

Brandon Martindale - Baseball Coach - Turf Management

Alivia Huell - Health /PE 

Mallory Dauzat -  graduate of AHS - Television Production

Bethany Mulholland - graduate of AHS - English

Amber Jackson- Business Education CTE

Amy Wedehase - Special Education

A great staff that is dedicated to meeting the educational needs of our great students is our goal this year with the assistance of all the programs and supports that are in place.  

I welcome each and every one of our 380 + students to a very successful and productive year!

Kay York Wortham

AHS School of Innovation Principal