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Arkansas Speaks ACTAA Newsletter

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  • 29 Jul 2025 11:39 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    As the summer draws to a close, we start to look toward a new school year, and before the worry and dread about not being prepared for parents, enduring a week of administrator planned-PD, and the return of email demands without boundaries start to creep in our minds,  I wanted to take a few moments to remind you that despite the initial worry, dread, and anxiety, you are about to walk into a classroom ready to inspire the next generation of change makers and leaders of our state.

    I know this because, that is what we do in our disciplines of communication and theatre arts. I know that without you in your school, the students in your community wouldn’t have opportunities to learn how to express themselves, communicate effectively and engage in their communities.

    You don’t have to think for long to recall a moment when a student delivered their first speech or performance, when you coached an anxious student through an introduction, or watched a naturally gifted performer command the stage during their first audition. In every case, you are not just teaching a skill—you are encouraging the next generation to discover their voice.

    And, you are not alone in this work!

    Since 1936, when our association was reorganized as a speech and drama teachers’ organization, ACTAA and our members have been dedicated to advancing Arkansas through communication, debate, and theatre arts—not only as an academic discipline, but as a vital life skill and a transformative art form.

    This work continues today through every classroom lesson, every stage performance, and every competition hosted by our members across the state. Whether it’s debate, forensics, acting, or public speaking—our mission remains clear: to provide students with a platform to positively and professionally formulate their independent ideas, and to communicate those ideas respectfully and effectively.

    And, you have a critical role in this work.

    Two years ago, ACTAA adopted our current core values under the banner Think. Speak. Act. Arkansas. Last fall, we took the next step by launching the ACTAA in Action Strategic Plan—our shared roadmap to ensure those values come alive in meaningful ways. The plan is built around four action themes:

    • Reflect on our purpose
    • Increase our impact
    • Expand our voice
    • Increase our ability to adapt

    Over the past year, we have seen real progress in each of these areas.

    We reflected on our purpose by strengthening new member support, developing intentional mentorship pathways, and recommitting ourselves to the mission first laid out in 1936: to unite schools, raise standards, and ensure speech and drama thrive across Arkansas.

    We increased our impact through the development of a sponsorship packet, using it not just as a fundraising tool but as a storytelling piece to engage new partners and secure resources for our mission.

    We expanded our voice with the launch of Arkansas Speech and Debate Month this past March, celebrating our state’s rich tradition of communication education and amplifying the stories of our students, alumni, and educators.

    And we began the work to increase our ability to adapt, collaborating as a statewide professional learning community to ensure our communication studies curriculum remains relevant and responsive to the rapidly changing needs of Arkansas students and the workforce.

    But our work is not finished. Looking forward to 2025–2026, our association has set four clear priorities:

    • New Member Support – ensuring every educator who joins ACTAA feels welcomed, resourced, and connected.
    • Building Strategic Partners – expanding our network of allies and supporters to amplify the reach and sustainability of our work.
    • Advocacy & Public Engagement – raising awareness with state leaders, parents, and communities about the transformative power of communication and theatre education.
    • The Future of the Curriculum – safeguarding and advancing communication studies so it is not seen as a “nice-to-have elective,” but as a core necessity for every Arkansas student.

    Colleagues, the truth is clear: communication education cannot be treated as a secondary subject. The Arkansas Department of Commerce Workforce Report reminds us that seven of the top ten employability gaps are directly related to the skills we teach—interpersonal communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and active listening. If we want Arkansas graduates to be prepared to lead, to contribute, and to thrive, then communication and theatre education must be front and center in our schools.

    This is not just about preserving our programs. It is about preparing a generation to be successful and to lead in a future fully ingulfed in the communication economy. Our work and curriculum will prepare them to be leaders and practitioners of ethical communication in a world of  misinformation and AI.

    Friends, as graduation requirements shift, as the demand for concurrent and career-tech pathways grows, and as pressures mount to reduce classroom hours, we must ensure communication education is not crowded out. Our students deserve more than a “fluff” elective. They deserve the tools to think critically, to speak confidently, and to act with integrity.

    The future of ACTAA—and of Arkansas—depends on us answering that call.

    So before to return to the classroom, I ask you to join me in recommitting to our mission:

    • Let us reflect on our purpose.
    • Let us increase our impact.
    • Let us expand our voice.
    • And let us strengthen our ability to adapt.

    Together, we will continue to inspire Arkansas to Think. Speak. Act. for a brighter tomorrow.

    ###

  • 29 Jul 2025 10:54 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    Following the Summer Workshop, July 20-22, the Board of Directors convened and approved several proposed policies and proposals aimed at advancing the association's ability to serve its membership better and ensure continuity.

    2025-2026 Priorities

    At the Summer Workshop, President Zackery Tucker presented on progress made on the association's strategic plan - ACTAA in Action. The document was adopted by the Board of Directors at the 2024 Fall Conference in September after six months of feedback from the membership. The document outlines potential initiatives of the association guiding our work with achieving our vision of a “future where every student in Arkansas has the opportunity to be transformed through participation in communication, debate, and theatre arts” in four themed areas: (1) REFLECT on our purpose; (2) increase our IMPACT; (3) EXPAND our voice; and increase our ability to ADAPT.

    At the Summer Workshop, the Board approved the President's recommendation for the 2025-2026 priorities for each area to be: (1) New Member Support; (2) Building Strategic Partners; (3) Advocacy & Public Engagement; and (3) The Future of the Curriculum.

    2025-2026 Strategic Priorities Presentation

    Committee Assignments

    • Arkansas State Championship (ASC) Committee - Jenny Moses requested permission to forgo serving as Chair of the ASC this academic year and solely support the ASC as Treasurer, as filling both roles would be difficult. The Board accepted Moses's resignation as ASC Chair and approved the appointment of Tiffany Tucker (Member 1) to Chair and the appointment of Jessica Skordal (outgoing chair) to the Member 1 position. Additionally, the Board accepted the ASC Committee's recommendation to appoint Casey Griffith of Conway High School in the Member 3 position.
    • Advocacy & Public Engagement (APE) Committee - The Board accepted Leigh Walters' resignation as APE Chair due to her leaving the classroom to serve the Little Rock School District as an ESL administrator. The Board accepted the President's recommendation to appoint Beck Greenway of Bentonville High School as APE Chair.
    • Belonging & Inclusion Advocacy (BIA) Committee - The BIA Committee was new established in March 2025. The Board accepted the President's recommendation to appoint Dariane Mull of Pinnacle View Middle School as BIA Chair, and Jas Dysmas of Cabot Junior High South in the Member 1 position.

    Arkansas Student Congress

    Last year, with a change in the administrative leadership of the Arkansas House of Representatives, ACTAA was informed that the Arkansas State Capitol Building would no longer be available to host the Arkansas Student Congress over the Veterans’ Day Holiday. The Board of Directors proposes that the language in the ACTAA Constitution outlining the ACTAA Calendar, specifically regarding the timing of the Arkansas Student Congress, be amended to create more flexibility in scheduling. Replacing “in November on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday over the officially scheduled Veterans Day Holiday” with “over three days in November.”

    Additionally, the Board of Directors has amended the ACTAA Bylaws to remove language regarding the timing of the Arkansas Student Congress and the Arkansas State Championship from the committees’ descriptions, leaving these references to appear only in the ACTAA Calendar section of the ACTAA Constitution, as referenced above. The Board of Directors is seeking endorsement of this change from the membership.

    Proposed Constitutional and Bylaws Amendments to create flexibility in Student Congress Dates.

    Nominating Committee Handbook Updates

    The Board of Directors approved language to insert in the ACTAA Organizational Handbook outlining the work and responsibilities of the Nominating Committee.

    Proposed Nominating Committee Handbook Updates

    Organizational Finances

    At each Summer Workshop, the Board of Directors must adopt an annual budget for the upcoming academic year and consider changes to the membership dues structure. The Board approved the Treasurer's proposed annual operating budget of the association, consisting of approximately $26,500 in operating expenses, with no recommended change to the membership dues structure.

    Proposed 2025-2026 Operating Budget

    ###

  • 29 Jul 2025 10:11 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    The following postings have been shared with ACTAA or recommended by Google Alerts. Please check the referenced school district's website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

    Secondary Drama Teacher - Part-time

    Pulaski County Special School District is seeking a Part-time Secondary Drama Teacher for Maumelle High School. Apply at: https://pcssd.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5304609.

    Audio/Video Technology and Communications Teacher

    Magnolia School District is seeking a Secondary Audio/Video Technology and Communications Teacher for Magnolia High School. Apply at: https://magnolia.schoolspring.com/?jobid=3907806.

  • 26 Jun 2025 4:08 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    The following postings have been shared with ACTAA or recommended by Google Alerts. Please check the referenced school district's website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

    Oral Communication/JAG Teacher

    Osceola School District is seeking a Oral Communication/JAG Teacher for High School. Apply at: https://www.applitrack.com/OSD1/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=High+School+Teaching.

    Communications Teacher

    Little Rock School District is seeking a Communications Teacher for Southwest High School. Apply at: https://lrsd.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5243307.

    Oral Communication Teacher

    Warren School District is seeking a Oral Communication Teacher for the High School. Apply at: https://warrensd.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5240770.

    Teacher and Theater Director

    Ozark Public Schools is seeking a Teacher and Theater Director for the High School. Apply at: https://ozarkhillbillies.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5242696.


  • 18 May 2025 6:30 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    The following postings have been shared with ACTAA or recommended by Google Alerts. Please check the referenced school district's website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

    Oral Communication/JAG Teacher

    Osceola School District is seeking a Oral Communication/JAG Teacher for High School. Apply at: https://www.applitrack.com/OSD1/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=High+School+Teaching.

    Drama/Technical Theatre Teacher

    Pulaski County Special School District is seeking a Drama/Technical Theatre Teacher for Sylvan Hills High School. Apply at: https://pcssd.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5103377.

    High School Teacher - Theatre

    Bentonville Public Schools is seeking a High School Theatre Teacher for the High School. Apply at: https://www.applitrack.com/bentonville/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=High+School+Licensed&subcategory=Theatre.

    Theater and Oral Communications Teacher

    White Hall School District is seeking a Theater and Oral Communications Teacher for the High School. Apply at: https://www.applitrack.com/whitehallsd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=High+School+Teaching&AppliTrackJobId=1344&AppliTrackLayoutMode=detail&AppliTrackViewPosting=1.

    Secondary Drama Teacher

    SHERIDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT is seeking a Secondary Drama Teacher for the High School. Apply at: https://ssdar.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5143397.


  • 18 May 2025 6:24 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    As we look ahead to another exciting season for Arkansas high school forensics and theatre, it’s time to start thinking about the 2025–2026 tournament and performance calendar. The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has released key scheduling guidelines and submission dates for the upcoming academic year.

    The official ACTAA calendar, maintained by the Executive Secretary, will continue to serve as the centralized schedule for all sanctioned speech and debate tournaments and theatre performances across the state.

    Here are a few important details and deadlines to keep in mind:

    • Starting February 16, 2025, tournament directors may begin submitting their preferred dates for inclusion on the 2025–2026 ACTAA calendar.

    • These dates will be formally presented to the ACTAA membership at Fall Conference, where traditional tournament dates will be carried forward into the upcoming year’s calendar unless changes are requested.

    • No tournaments may be scheduled prior to Fall Conference, and official ACTAA events must be confirmed on the calendar before any local or regional tournaments can be approved.

    • To ensure focus and participation at the Arkansas State Championship (ASC), no tournaments will be permitted during the two weeks leading up to ASC.

    We encourage all directors and program coordinators to begin planning now to secure their traditional dates and ensure a well-organized, conflict-free schedule for all participating schools.

    ACTAA Calendar Request Form

  • 18 May 2025 6:13 PM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2025 Arkansas Forensics & Debate State Championship Tournament, held May 2–3 at Fayetteville High School! Your dedication and talent made this year's event a memorable one.

    As we reflect on the tournament, we're committed to making future championships even better — and we need your help. Whether you were a student, coach, judge, volunteer, or guest, we value your input.

    📝 Please take a few minutes to complete our feedback form:


    ASC Feedback Form


    Your feedback helps us:

    Improve event logistics and scheduling

    Enhance judging quality and fairness

    Ensure a positive experience for all attendees

    Thank you for being part of the Arkansas forensics and debate community. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you next season!


  • 16 May 2025 6:42 AM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

    Each year, ACTAA thrives because of members like you—dedicated educators, artists, and advocates who believe in the power of communication and theatre to transform lives. Now, we invite you to take the next step in your professional journey by serving our community through leadership on the ACTAA Board or one of our committees.

    Why Serve?
    Service is at the heart of who we are. It’s how we lift each other up, share the load, and build a stronger future for our students, our colleagues, and our disciplines. Whether you’ve been involved for years or are just finding your place in ACTAA, there is a space for your voice, your ideas, and your leadership.

    By stepping into service, you can:

    • Make a meaningful impact on our profession and organization
    • Help shape the direction of ACTAA programs and initiatives
    • Grow your network and learn alongside passionate, like-minded peers
    • Inspire others through your example of service and commitment

      Opportunities Available:

      • Board of Directors – Help guide ACTAA's mission and vision through strategic leadership and collaboration.

      • Committee Membership – Contribute your skills and energy to essential efforts such as conference planning, advocacy, equity initiatives, student programs, and more.

      We Need You.
      ACTAA is strongest when its leadership reflects the diversity and dedication of its membership. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or an emerging professional, your perspective matters. Don’t wait to be asked—this is your invitation.

      Ready to Serve?
      Please complete the Leadership Interest Form by June 30 to express your interest or nominate a colleague. We can’t wait to see how you’ll help lead ACTAA into the future.

      Questions? Reach out to Zackery Tucker (zatucker@asub.edu)—we’d love to talk with you about where your strengths might shine.

      Let’s lead together.

    • 15 Apr 2025 8:35 AM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

      The following postings have been shared with ACTAA or recommended by Google Alerts. Please check the referenced school district's website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

      Middle School Theater Teacher

      Fayetteville Public Schools is seeking a Theater Teacher for John L Colbert Middle School. Apply at: https://district.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5025884.

      Secondary Oral Communications and Drama Teacher

      The Harrison School District is seeking a  Oral Communications and Drama Teacher for Harrison High School. Apply at: https://hps.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a2061eciie3e.

      Jr. High Drama Teacher

      Jonesboro Public School is seeking a Jr. High Drama Teacher for Annie Camp Junior High. Apply at: https://www.jonesboroschools.net/Page/514.

      Middle School Drama Teacher

      The Fouke School District is seeking a Middle School Drama Teacher for Paulette Smith Middle School. Apply at: https://www.foukepanthers.org/118032_2.

    • 15 Apr 2025 8:27 AM | Zackery Tucker (Administrator)

      The Board of Directors meets every two months to receive updates from committees/ officers and discuss association matters. In addition to the discussion on updates on summer workshop, fall conference, the virtual summer camp, and background checks for ACTAA events, the following outlines updates from the Board’s March 30th meeting.

      Print Ballots & Event Rules Update.

      Over the last several month the Arkansas State Championship Committee has reviewed the print ballots, and prepared several corrections to inconsistencies between he print ballots event rules and practice in the state and NSDA Unified Manual. However, some determinations will need to be voted on by the member at Fall Conference as practice in state might be better suited to the event than NSDA or ballot wording. (e.g., storytelling, impromptu speaking, prose, reader’s theatre, words and music, song lyric interpretation, and duo improvisation). Board members will review the proposed ballots ahead of the May Board meeting, and time will be set aside at Summer Workshop for membership feedback on ballots/ event rules, and final language will be proposed for membership approval at Fall Conference.

      ACTAA College Intern.

      At the January Board Meeting, Martene Campbell presented the concept of ACTAA having a volunteer non-paid intern to assist with social media and fundraising. The board ask Campbell to develop a proposal and present the idea at its March meeting. At the March 30th meeting, the Board approved the creation of  college intern positions to assist ACTAA Leadership with social media, particular at ACTAA sponsored events. The Board approved to offer the internship to Lesleigh Sullivan of Arkansas State University in the immediate to support social media for the   Arkansas State Championship, May 2-3. ACTAA Leadership will develop an application process for consideration by the Board at Summer Workshop, and to solicit interest for applicants for the 2025-2026 academic year.

      Tournament Advisory Committee.

      In January, the association ratified changed to the ACTAA By-laws which included restricting the Tournament Advisory Committee (TAC). As a result, the ACTAA President Zackery Tucker needed to appoint new at-large members to TAC, with confirmation by the Board. The Board approved Casey Griffith of Conway High School, Chris Flowers of Little Rock West-Hall School of innovation, Antha Johnson of Fayetteville High School and Daniel Caudle of Har-Ber High School to serve on TAC in a rotating cycle to be determined by drawing lots at Summer Workshop. In addition to the four appointed at-large positions, the ACTAA President, ASC Director (Rosie Valdez-Block, and Student Congress Director (Martene Campbell) serve on the committee ex officio. 

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