WARREN, Ark. (10-9-25) – Two southeast Arkansas teachers have been selected among 23 high-performing educators statewide for the inaugural Arkansas Excellence in Teaching Fellowship Program, announced by the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE).
Sonya Taylor, a 5th-grade teacher at Thomas C. Brunson Elementary in the Warren School District, and Melanie Brotherton, a 3rd-grade teacher at Drew Central Elementary in Monticello, were named to the 2025–2026 class of fellows.
According to ADE, “We launched the Arkansas Excellence in Teaching Fellowship to recognize some of the highest-performing K-12 educators in the state,” said Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva. “This unique program is not only a reward for their excellence in the classroom, but a unique opportunity for them to grow professionally, build lasting connections, and make an even greater impact in their schools and communities.”
Taylor has served in the Warren School District for 28 years, where she is passionate about helping students succeed in math. Brotherton has taught for 27 years at Drew Central Elementary, where she continues to inspire her students and shape young minds.
All 23 teachers chosen are recipients of the Merit Teacher Incentive Fund. “Arkansas is fortunate to be home to brilliant educators who make tremendous gains with their students,” said Brandie Benton, ADE Assistant Commissioner for Teacher Effectiveness, Licensure. “We’re excited to introduce this new opportunity for teachers to connect with each other from across the state, share their best practices, and make more people aware of the progress they’re advancing in our schools.”
The program will run through May 2026, with fellows participating in virtual convenings focused on professional learning, networking, and collaboration. Each teacher will receive a $1,500 stipend.
For more information about the Arkansas Excellence in Teaching Fellowship Program, visit the Arkansas Department of Education’s website.
