Delta Preparatory High: Blytheville has officially been recognized as an Arkansas School of Conservation Leadership by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).

This designation isn't an award you simply apply for—it's earned over a full academic year by satisfying 13 rigorous requirements. To qualify, schools must complete teacher professional development, lead outdoor learning experiences, participate in AGFC programming, execute a campus conservation project, and provide documented evidence for every milestone. Coach James Realon spearheaded the effort for Delta Prep’s high school campus.

The AGFC created this initiative to connect classroom standards to the natural world and expose students to potential careers in conservation. For Delta Prep students, that connection hits close to home. Located in Mississippi County along the Mississippi Flyway—and just a short drive from Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge—waterfowl, water quality, and working lands are central to the local economy. This program turns those local environments into hands-on curriculum.

Earning this title opens up direct benefits for the school, including access to AGFC equipment grants, specialized teacher training, and ongoing program support for students. Delta Prep was one of just 31 schools statewide to achieve the designation this year.

A sincere thank-you goes out to the teachers and staff who took on this extra effort alongside their daily work.

Delta Prep was one of 31 schools statewide to earn the designation this year. Read the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's announcement here.