A team of Arp ISD and community leaders recently traveled to Kerrville to participate in the Raise Your Hand Texas Community Leaders Fellowship Conference, where they focused on strengthening advocacy efforts for public education.

Representing Arp were Superintendent Shannon Arrington, School Board member Donna Lowery, parent Lauren Smart, and Arp City Councilman Chris Johnson. The group was joined by Deann Lee, East Texas Regional Director for Raise Your Hand Texas.

The fellowship program is designed to help community leaders better understand education policy and develop strategies for effectively advocating on behalf of public schools. Participants learn how to engage with policymakers, communicate local educational needs, and amplify the voices of students, educators, and communities at the state level.

Arp ISD was selected earlier this year to participate in the prestigious fellowship program, which brings together school and community leaders from across Texas.

District officials said the conference provides valuable opportunities to gain knowledge, build relationships, and strengthen efforts to support public education both locally and statewide.