Effective May 29, 2025, the Arkansas State Board of Education (SBE) classified the Blytheville School District as In Need of Level 5 – Intensive Support. This designation represents the highest level of state accountability and intervention under Arkansas law.
The classification was based on the following factors:
• Continued underperformance on state-mandated assessments across multiple grade levels;
• Insufficient academic growth and lack of sustained improvement over time;
• Governance and leadership concerns affecting the District’s ability to implement effective change.
As part of this action, the SBE removed the authority of the local Blytheville School Board and granted full authority and control of the district to the Arkansas Secretary of Education, Jacob Oliva.
The District is currently working in collaboration with the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to pursue a school transformation contract with an external education service provider, as permitted by the LEARNS Act. This effort is intended to support comprehensive school improvement and improved student outcomes.
Blytheville School District remains committed to providing every student with access to a high-quality education and is focused on restoring excellence in teaching and learning across all campuses.