The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) has announced Mrs. Sara Jones, Head of School at Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock, as the 2025 Administrator of the Year. Jones was honored during ACTAA’s annual awards ceremony, recognizing her outstanding leadership and unwavering support of students, faculty, and the arts.

Known for her thoughtful and servant-centered leadership, Jones has worked to intentionally strengthen school culture at Mount St. Mary Academy. She is deeply committed to student success and faculty well-being, championing initiatives that balance academic excellence with mental health and morale. As Lead Counselor Amy observed, “Sara’s leadership is truly exceptional, marked by her remarkably thoughtful approach to decision-making. She consistently takes the time to consider the potential impact on every member of our school community.”

Jones has also been especially recognized for her advocacy of theatre, forensics, and other fine arts programs. Jenny Moses, Arts Department Chair, shared: “Sara encourages and enables me to be a more effective teacher. She listens, collaborates, and provides the support needed for our students to thrive, even when that means reimagining traditional approaches. Her leadership has made it possible to dream bigger for our students and programs.”

Her colleagues agree that Jones’s leadership makes a tangible difference. Admissions Coordinator Eden praised her for “securing both the space and staffing needed for the arts to thrive.” Assistant Head of School Robin added, “Sara is a servant leader… She leads with integrity, empathy, and humility. There is no task too great or too small for Sara to tackle.”

ACTAA President Zackery Tucker underscored why the association chose to honor Jones: “Sara Jones doesn’t just talk about supporting the arts—she shows up. She empowers teachers, uplifts students, and models the kind of leadership that transforms schools and communities. We are proud to recognize her as ACTAA’s Administrator of the Year.”

The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is a non-profit professional organization serving educators. Its purpose is to promote communication, debate, forensics and theatre as an essential discipline, life skill, and art form. Additionally, ACTAA is the official sanctioning organization authorized by the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) and National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) to govern interscholastic speech and debate competition in Arkansas.