Lifelong Service. Stronger Schools.
A Brighter Future.

Born and raised in the Pine Street community of Conway, I have always been deeply connected to this city and its people. My journey started in Conway Public Schools, where I was an active student leader, and it continues today as I seek to serve Zone 5 on the School Board.

black circle on white background, with partial arc visible
Leona in a colorful striped dress sitting on a porch chair, with the caption 'A servant's heart, Walton enjoys helping others.'

My vision for Conway Schools is simple:

  • Support our teachers

  • Ensure safe, well-managed classrooms

  • Prepare students for all career paths

Key
Priorities
for
Conway’s
Schools

Teacher Retention & Support

Teachers are the foundation of our schools. We must ensure they feel valued, respected, and supported, so they can focus on what matters most—educating our children.

Classroom Management & Student Behavior

A strong learning environment starts with safe, well-managed classrooms. Supporting teachers with training and parental engagement will help create a culture where students thrive.

Student Career Development

Not every student will pursue college, and that’s okay. Schools should provide real-world career pathways, from trades and technical programs to entrepreneurship and workforce training.

A group of people gathered indoors, attentively listening. One woman in the foreground wears a green sweater with floral designs. Signs in the background promote Leona for local school board elections.
Leona in a graduation gown and cap holding a diploma, smiling outdoors with people in the background.
Leona speaking into a microphone wearing a gray t-shirt with "Juneteenth" text, outdoors with trees in the background.
Leona with a group of people planting a tree in a park, using shovels to move soil.

From a young age, I was driven by the belief that service is the heart of leadership.
As a student at Conway High School, I:

  • Led as Treasurer & President of the American Black Culture Club.

  • Served on the Black-White Human Relations Council and Student Congress.

  • Represented Conway at the Jr. Miss Event at UCA, earning the Citizenship Award.

Even when I stepped away from school, my passion for learning never stopped. At 59 years old, I earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology (Magna Cum Laude) from Central Baptist College, proving that it’s never too late to achieve your goals.

Community Leadership & Service
* President of the Pine Street CommUnity Museum
* Co-founder of the Pine Street Backpack Program (serving students for 17+ years!)
* Church Secretary at Greater Pleasant Branch Baptist Church
* Board Member of Robinson Cemetery

Honors & Recognition
🏆 Lifetime Achievement Award – Pine Street Community Development Center
🏆 Community Service Award – Habitat for Humanity
🏆 Human Rights Award – Church Women United
🏆 Conway Public Schools Hall of Honor Inductee (2023 – Distinguished Alumna)

Having substituted in Conway Schools, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges & opportunities in our schools. My goal is simple: work together to build a stronger future for every student.