Mount St. Mary Academy Head of School Sara Jones was honored by the Arkansas Communication & Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) as the 2025 Administrator of the Year during the organization’s Fall Conference in Hot Springs on Friday, August 29.
Jenny Moses, a theatre and forensics instructor at Mount, nominated Mrs. Jones for the award. In her nomination letter, which included supporting statements from a handful of faculty and staff members, Ms. Moses highlighted some of the qualities that make her supervisor deserving of the special recognition.
“As an administrator, Sara goes above and beyond to intentionally change the school climate for good,” she said. “She is concerned about the morale and mental health of the students, faculty, and staff. Everything is for the student, but she understands that a happy, appreciated faculty is required for a successful student body. Sara listens to new ideas and does not simply rely on ‘how we’ve done it in the past’ mentality. Thoughtful, intentional growth is the goal. Sara trusts me to act in the best interest of the students in my program, and then empowers me with time and resources to help my students flourish.”
“I would love to see Sara recognized for her support of the arts,” added Eden Coker, Mount’s director of enrollment. “She has championed our program by securing both the space and staffing needed for it to thrive. Sara leads by listening – responding thoughtfully to the needs of her teachers and staff – and every decision she makes is rooted in what is best for our students. Her commitment is admirable and felt by everyone in this building.”
According to the announcement on its Facebook page, ACTAA annually recognizes leaders who champion educational opportunities that empower Arkansas students to think for themselves, speak with passion, and act in service to other – transforming their communities through effective, ethical communication as both a life skill and an art form.
“This year, we were honored to present Sara Jones with the 2025 ACTAA Administrator of the Year Award,” the statement noted. “Her faculty and staff describe her as a leader deeply committed to collaboration and to providing students with every opportunity to succeed – both inside and beyond the classroom – through communication and theatre education. She is even currently teaching professional communication. Arkansas speech and debate educators are grateful for incredible mentors and champions like Mrs. Jones who ensure these vital disciplines thrive at the school level.”
“Whether being a great audience member at productions, judging forensics’ tournament rounds, or being a great sound board, I know she has my back,” Ms. Moses, said. “That peace of mind is invaluable. I know how good I have it, and all I can say is ‘thank you, Sara!’”
The 2025-2026 school year marks Mrs. Jones’ 11th year at Mount St. Mary Academy. She previously served as assistant principal for four years and then principal for three years before being named the school’s first head of school in 2022.
