Alternative Learning Academy

Christy Daniels, a counselor at SSD's Alternative Learning Academy and Sheridan Middle School, was named the Arkansas School Counselor Association Southwest Region Middle School Counselor of the Year in 2025. She was nominated by her fellow counselor, Vicki Strong. Mrs. Daniels advanced to compete at the state level. ALA Principal Dennis Wolfe, SMS Principal Deborah Mooney, and Allyson Pitts, director of school counseling and Jacket Health & Wellness, presented Mrs. Daniels with a Difference Maker award during February's school board meeting.