The Gravette School District Board officially appointed Mr. Jeff Gravette as Superintendent during its January 27, 2025 meeting, marking a pivotal moment for the district’s leadership. A former social studies teacher at Gravette High School and five-time recipient of the Teacher of the Year award, Mr. Gravette returned to lead the district after years in administrative roles, including Assistant Superintendent of Gravette School District and Superintendent of Decatur School District.
A photo of Mr. Gravette teaching Social Studies at Gravette High School in 2022
As his name would suggest, Mr. Gravette’s ties to the community run deeper than his years of service to the schools. Jeff is the great-great grandson of Ellis Tillman Gravett, one of the City of Gravette’s founders. Over a century later, Mr. Gravette continues that leadership tradition, with a commitment to fostering growth and success for students, staff, and the community as a whole. At the time of his appointment as Interim Superintendent, Mr. Gravette said, “I couldn’t be more excited for the opportunity to lead our district. I am honored that the Gravette School Board has placed their faith in me to guide us forward. I love this school district and our incredible staff and students. The community support we have is second to none.”
Mr. Gravette initially stepped into the role as Interim Superintendent at the beginning of the school year, tasked with addressing key district challenges, such as the implementation of a district-wide student cell phone policy. His leadership during this transition, marked by clear communication and in-person community engagement, earned the trust and appreciation of the district board, staff, and families.
Mr. Gravette addresses staff at District Day just before the students returned from summer break
With unanimous board approval, Mr. Gravette's appointment was met with enthusiasm from staff and community members alike. Dr. Mandy Barrett, Principal of Gravette Upper Elementary, shared, "His leadership, dedication, and vision have already made such a positive impact, and I can’t wait to see how he continues to move our district forward."
Mr. Gravette waves to the crowd during the Homecoming Day Parade
The administrative team with whom Mr. Gravette works includes Rebecca Andrews (Assistant Superintendent), Dennis Kurczek (Chief Fiscal Officer), Lisa Sizemore (Purchasing Manager), Kim Skaggs (Payroll Manager), Megan Mayo (Executive Assistant and Personnel Services), and Arissa Blakeslee (Administrative Assistant). In addition to Mr. Gravette’s appointment, the district has seen changes in other key leadership roles, including Dr. Brandi Newsom as Principal of Glenn Duffy Elementary, Andrew Vire as Athletics Director, and Tyler Matlock as Director of Special Education. Their collective efforts have made a significant impact on the district’s culture in only one semester. These leaders, alongside a dedicated administrative team, are poised to continue fostering growth, collaboration, and student success across the district.
The following are reflections from staff members, celebrating Mr. Gravette’s permanent appointment and the district's future under his leadership.
"I am excited to have Mr. Gravette as our new superintendent. His leadership as interim superintendent, years of teaching in our district, and prior experience as a superintendent make him the perfect fit. Mr. Gravette cares deeply about our students and staff and is committed to building strong connections within our community. I look forward to the future of Gravette Schools under his leadership."
Rebecca Andrews Assistant Superintendent Gravette School District
"I’m beyond excited that Mr. Gravette has officially been named as superintendent of the Gravette School District! His leadership, dedication, and vision have already made such a positive impact, and I can’t wait to see how he continues to move our district forward. During his time as interim superintendent, Mr. Gravette has shown an unwavering commitment to students, staff, and the entire community. With his guidance, I know we will continue to grow, innovate, and create the best possible learning environment for our students. The future is bright, and I’m thrilled to be part of this journey!"
Dr. Mandy Barrett Principal Gravette Upper Elementary
"I am grateful for Mr. Gravette's collaborative spirit and willingness to listen to all voices. He is also willing to help me navigate any challenge that comes my way."
Dr. Brandi Newsom Principal Glenn A. Duffy Elementary
"Our district could not be in a better place with Mr. Gravette being our superintendent. Mr. Gravette has always excelled in any position he has held throughout his career in education. The Gravette School District has always been a great school for our teachers and students; now, under the leadership of Mr. Gravette, we will only continue to prosper."
Cory Briggs Assistant Principal Gravette Middle School
"Excited to have Jeff Gravette leading the way as our Superintendent! His leadership, vision, and dedication to our schools and community are exactly what we need. Looking forward to the positive impact he will make!"
Andrew Vire Athletic Director Gravette School District
"I am thrilled to have Mr. Gravette as our Superintendent. I look forward to working with him daily to meet the challenges of our district. His warm and caring support for leadership is a welcome change. Congratulations!"
Sheila Roughton Director of Food Services Gravette School District
"I've known Mr Gravette since he was here as a teacher for 6th grade social studies. Both of my daughters were in his class. In fact, one of my daughters is now a 1st grade teacher here at Glenn Duffy. He is as approachable now as he was then. He genuinely cares for our students and staff. I'm grateful he is now our Superintendent and I have confidence that he will be good for our district."
Melissa White Transportation & Facilities Administrative Assistant Gravette School District
"Mr. Gravette is the most relatable and supportive Superintendent I have had the privilege to work with in all my years in education. As a new administrator myself, I immediately felt supported, valued and worthy. Anytime I have had a question, a thought and even a doubt, he has been there to offer answers, thoughtful responses, and resonating mentoring. Gravette School district is better for having him lead us."
Tyler Matlock Director of Special Education Gravette School District
"I have worked with Mr. Gravette in various capacities for most of my teaching career. You will not find a more dedicated teacher or school leader. He cares deeply about his students, his colleagues, and his community. He is the epitome of a servant leader. I am thrilled to continue working with him as he leads Gravette and to be a part of the legacy he is building here."
Rachel Gibson GATE Program Director Gravette Middle School
"In my 33 years of teaching I have worked for numerous superintendents and Mr. Gravette stands out to me because he is approachable and available to the faculty, students, parents and the community as a whole. He is visible in the schools and brings a positive and supportive attitude everywhere he goes. He is doing an outstanding job and I am thrilled that he will continue as our superintendent. This community and school district is special because of the dedicated employees like him that go above and beyond for our students and staff."
Lisa Thrailkill ESOL & Migrant Services Director Gravette School District
"I'm very excited that he is now official! In just the short time that I've been working with him, I have already seen how much he cares for the students as well as the staff and community and I'm thrilled to be working with him!"
Arissa Blakeslee Administration Assistant Gravette School District