HELENA, Ark. — August 19, 2026 — Delta Preparatory Schools announced the appointment of Kayla Perry to its Board of Directors at its August board meeting. Perry, a Blytheville native and licensed social worker, brings a background in child welfare, family advocacy, and community engagement to the board as the network continues its work serving students and families across Helena and Blytheville.

Perry currently serves as a Child Care Service Specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education, where she monitors and supports compliance for child care facilities across the region and designs training programs on state licensing requirements. She previously worked as a Family Service Worker with the Arkansas Department of Children and Families Services, developing case plans and coordinating services for families affected by abuse and neglect.

Since returning to Blytheville in 2024, Perry has been an active volunteer in the community, serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for foster children, a math tutor with Algebra Academy, and a youth soccer coach. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Hendrix College and has prior experience with the KIPP Foundation, including work on its COVID Task Force and School Summit programming teams.

"We're proud that our first new appointment to the Delta Preparatory Schools Board of Directors represents Mississippi County and is the first alumna to serve. Her perspective is especially valuable as we enter this new chapter, and we're honored to have her expertise and community insight," said Kevin Smith, Executive Director of Delta Preparatory Schools.

"I believe my experience assessing the needs of individuals and families, identifying barriers to success, and connecting people with resources can help strengthen the school's mission," said Perry. "Returning home has deepened my commitment to investing in the future of our local youth, and I'm honored to serve our students, families, and school community in this new capacity."

Perry joins the board as Delta Preparatory Schools continues to build out its governance and community leadership following its transition from KIPP Delta Public Schools.

About Delta Preparatory Schools — Delta Preparatory Schools (formerly KIPP Delta Public Schools) is a public charter school network operating four campuses in Helena and Blytheville, Arkansas, serving students from early childhood through high school. Delta Prep is committed to providing a rigorous, supportive education that prepares students for success in college, career, and life.