Cotter School Board Approves Virtual Academy, Renews Principal Contracts

The board also approved personnel changes and renewed insurance coverage.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Cotter Public School Board had a busy agenda at their recent meeting, approving the creation of a new virtual academy, renewing the contracts of the elementary and high school principals, and making other personnel changes. The board also unanimously approved the renewal of the district's workers' compensation insurance.

Why it matters

The creation of a virtual academy provides Cotter students with an additional educational option, especially important during the ongoing pandemic. Renewing the principals' contracts ensures continuity of leadership at the schools. The personnel changes and insurance renewal reflect the board's efforts to maintain a stable and well-supported school system.

The details

The board unanimously approved renewing the contracts of Airl Cheek as Elementary Principal, Federal Programs Coordinator, and 5th/6th Grade Basketball Coach, as well as Jarrod Jefferson's contract as High School Principal. The board also approved hiring current 7th/8th Grade Language Arts teacher Keri Raycraft as the Director of the new Cotter Virtual Academy, and Brent Williams as the new Elementary Counselor, while accepting the resignation of long-time Elementary Counselor Beth Foster. Additionally, the board unanimously approved the renewal of the district's Workers' Compensation Insurance with ASBA Workers' Compensation Trust at a cost of $9,630.00.

  • The school board meeting took place on Thursday evening.
  • The board approved the new virtual academy and personnel changes at this meeting.

The players

Jayme Jones

Superintendent of Cotter Public Schools.

Airl Cheek

Elementary Principal, Federal Programs Coordinator, and 5th/6th Grade Basketball Coach for Cotter Public Schools.

Jarrod Jefferson

High School Principal for Cotter Public Schools.

Keri Raycraft

Hired as Director of the new Cotter Virtual Academy, previously taught 7th/8th Grade Language Arts.

Brent Williams

Hired as the new Elementary Counselor for Cotter Public Schools.

Beth Foster

Resigned from her position as Elementary Counselor, after over 20 years with the district.

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The takeaway

The Cotter School Board's actions demonstrate their commitment to providing diverse educational opportunities, maintaining strong leadership, and supporting their staff - all of which are crucial for the success and well-being of the Cotter school community.