Searcy County School District explores partnership with Timbo district to address funding challenges

As school districts across Arkansas face mounting financial pressures, the Searcy County School District is considering a shared management agreement with the Timbo School District beginning with the 2026–27 school year.

Superintendent Valorie McCleary said the goal is to be proactive while staying true to the principles of public education, particularly in rural areas.

“Reductions in early childhood and preschool funding, along with state and federal budget cuts and declining enrollment, have created serious challenges,” McCleary said. “We’re facing tough financial realities, but we refuse to let that mean fewer opportunities for our students. Our focus is on solutions that protect programs, staff, and educational quality.”

Over the past decade, Searcy County’s enrollment has dropped from 873 to 740 students, resulting in more than $10 million in lost revenue. Each student lost represents about $8,200 in reduced funding.

To offset those losses, the district has already begun sharing special education positions with the Ozark Mountain School District, a move McCleary says has improved efficiency and reduced costs. The proposed partnership with Timbo would expand on that model.

As a result of Act 919, Timbo is in the process of re-establishing independence from the Mountain View School District after facing potential closure. McCleary said the proposed collaboration could help both districts financially.

“Timbo is facing some big challenges, and this is a chance for them to save some money and get on their feet,” she said.

Under the plan, Timbo would contract with Searcy County for superintendent and management services through a financial agreement approved by both school boards. The arrangement would allow Timbo to maintain its own district status and local school board while reducing administrative costs.

Scott Smith, executive director of the Arkansas Public School Resource Center, is working with both districts on the legal framework for the agreement.

At a recent meeting, Arkansas Secretary of Education Jacob Oliva expressed support for the idea, saying it could serve as a model for rural district collaboration statewide.

“The Searcy County Board of Education wants to find ways to save money without cutting staff or programs,” McCleary said. “Districts everywhere are facing enrollment and funding declines. By working together locally, we can maintain strong services for our students.”

McCleary emphasized that local partnerships are more effective than outsourcing management to private or out-of-state organizations. “We know our communities, and we know our students’ needs,” she said.

Searcy County School Board President Bill Jackson said the board supports the discussion. “We want to keep our teachers and keep our programs, giving our students every chance to succeed,” Jackson said. “Considering things like this shows our district is thinking ahead and willing to change in changing times.”

Sue Fletcher, Timbo’s board representative for the Mountain View School District, said the partnership could help Timbo rebuild. “We can save money and benefit from an experienced administrator,” Fletcher said. “We are planning to be as cost effective as possible while we work to rebuild our school district for our students and communities.”

McCleary said the ultimate goal remains clear: “We’re proud of our academic progress and innovative spirit in our rural schools. Our priority is to continue improving educational opportunities for students while protecting the staff and programs that make our schools strong.”