Pocahontas School District Receives Initial Approval from Arkansas Division of Facilities for New High School Construction
The Pocahontas School District is excited to announce the Arkansas Division of Facilities and Transportation has granted initial approval for a major new construction project aimed at enhancing the educational experience for our high school students. The project plans include the construction of a new 9-12 high school facility, which will create a modern, state-of-the-art environment designed to support the district's mission of "Preparing Today for Tomorrow."
“This initial approval provides a strong foundation for our efforts to create a new high school that will meet the needs of our students and community for generations to come,” said Dr. Lance Arbuckle, Pocahontas Superintendent. “However, additional steps, including the possibility of a millage vote, would be necessary to fully fund this transformative project.”
To ensure the new high school reflects the needs and aspirations of the community, the district will host several engagement sessions in the coming months. These sessions will provide opportunities for students, parents, educators, and community members to share their ideas and priorities for the school’s design and features.
The district should learn if the project will receive state partnership money in late spring or early summer. If the Board of Education approves moving forward with additional funding measures, the community could anticipate a millage vote in November 2025. This vote would provide the remaining resources needed to complete the project and bring the new high school to fruition.
As part of the new construction, several existing buildings would be demolished, including the main high school building, the gym, the old math and science wing, the ALE building, the choir room, and the home economics building. The Old Rock Building, which currently serves as the cafeteria, would be preserved as a part of the district’s commitment to honoring the past while investing in the future.
The new high school could be planned to include advanced technology integration, collaborative spaces for STEM education, updated athletic and arts facilities, and energy-efficient design features and would allow for expanded programs for secondary students. It would also allow for ninth-grade students to transition from the junior high to the high school building, providing them with more comprehensive educational opportunities.
While neither a construction timeline nor a goal for completion has been set, initial approval marks a significant step forward in enhancing the district’s educational infrastructure.
“This proposed project underscores our commitment to providing a 21st-century learning environment for our students and would be a source of pride for our community,” added Arbuckle. “We look forward to working with our community to make this vision a reality.” Regular updates on the project’s progress will be shared via district’s website, social media channels, and community newsletters.
For more information, please contact: Dr. Lance Arbuckle, Superintendent
Pocahontas School District
870.892.4573 or lance.arbuckle@pochonataspsd.com
About Pocahontas School District: Pocahontas School District serves a diverse demographic of nearly 1,900 students. Guided by our mission, "Preparing Today for Tomorrow," we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and innovative educational environment that equips students with the skills and knowledge they need for future success.