By Arkadelphia Public Schools

The Arkadelphia Public School District introduced Debbie Stephens as the incoming principal at Perritt Primary School.

Stephens comes to Perritt with 23 years of experience in education. The past eight of those years have been spent in the Caddo Hills School District. She has most recently served as the Caddo Hills Elementary School Principal (Preschool through 6th Grade), Preschool Director, and District Curriculum Coordinator.

She has worked in the Hot Springs School District as well as in the Louisiana Public School System. Throughout her years in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, interventionist, instructional facilitator, literacy coach, Dean of Academics, and Title IX Committee member.

“We are excited to welcome Mrs. Stephens to the Badger family,” said Arkadelphia Superintendent Nikki Thomas. “She brings a wealth of diverse leadership experience and a servant’s heart that will enhance the positive culture and academic success that already exists at Perritt. We look forward to her joining our team.” 

Stephens holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Louisiana Monroe and a M.Ed in Educational Administration Leadership from L.S.U. Shreveport. She earned her District-level Leadership Graduate Certificate from Southern Arkansas University.

“I look forward to serving the students and other stakeholders of Perritt Primary School and the Arkadelphia Public School District,” said Stephens. “I am super excited to be a part of the Badger family. It’s always a great day to be a Badger.”