Teacher-driven changes lead to progress in Marvell-Elaine

There is a remarkable turnaround taking place in Marvell-Elaine – fueled by strategic interventions, renewed community pride, and a deep commitment to student success. The district and community are moving beyond past struggles and paving the way for a new future.

This spring, the Office for Education Policy at the University of Arkansas recognized Marvell-Elaine for significant gains in ATLAS scores during the 2023–24 school year. Word of the district’s progress – both academically and culturally – has reached educators like Taylor Dalencourt, who previously left the district but has since returned.

“I asked around to find a school really doing the work for students,” said Dalencourt. “I was surprised to hear that Marvell-Elaine was not only improving – it was thriving. So I came back. We’ve worked hard to launch new initiatives, and this was our year to reclaim our Mustang pride.”

Upon her return, Dalencourt championed Marvell-Elaine’s participation in the LeARner Collective, a program that provides educators with the tools, time, and support to create innovative, student-centered solutions tailored to their school communities.

With support from the Friendship Education Foundation, which now manages the district, Marvell-Elaine has spent the past year rolling out impactful, school-based projects designed to elevate student engagement, strengthen community ties, and boost staff development. These initiatives include:

Community Readers – A program founded by Mrs. Jackie Johnson-Cox, an interventionist at Marvell-Elaine, that invites local leaders, students, and families to read during library time, building a culture of literacy throughout the district.

Student of the Month – A recognition program that celebrates students for their hard work and character.

Incentive-Based Field Trips – Opportunities for students to explore life beyond their communities, promoting personal growth and academic motivation.

Math and Literacy Nights – Interactive events that help families access resources and stay engaged in their children’s learning journey.“These initiatives brought back a sense of nostalgia that had been missing for a long time,” Dalencourt shared. “They represent a return to our spirit of service – that every person in this district is committed to meeting the needs of our community. Parents feel more supported and curious about their children’s learning. Students are taking ownership of their growth. And staff members are more inspired than ever to keep going – and keep growing.”

And this is just the beginning.

“Let’s be honest – we were once the last district anyone expected to succeed,” Dalencourt said. “But our story proves that trials can become triumphs when the work is genuine, selfless, and grounded in servant leadership. I came back to Marvell-Elaine High School because this is where I found my sense of belonging.”