The Wampus Chat Podcast
Welcome to the Wampus Chat Podcast, your official source for everything happening in Conway Public Schools! We are here to bring you the latest news, updates, and stories from across our district. Conway Public Schools is home to nearly 10,000 students across 16 campuses, serving a community of over 65,000 residents. With a dedicated team of more than 1,300 teachers and staff, we’re committed to providing a top-notch education that prepares our students for success in college, careers, and life. Whether you’re a parent, student, teacher, or community member, this podcast is designed to keep you connected and informed. From exciting school events and academic highlights to interviews with students, staff, and district leaders, we’ve got it all covered. So sit back, tune in, and let’s chat about what’s going on in the world of Wampus Cats!
Episodes

Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Episode 3: Partnering for Safety – CPSD & First Responders
In this episode of the CPSD Safety Podcast Series, we examine the critical partnership between Conway Public Schools and our local first responders. Ensuring the safety of students, staff, and visitors requires collaboration beyond the school day, extending to extracurricular events and emergency preparedness efforts.
Joining the discussion are:
Dr. Andy Ashley, Assistant Superintendent
Eric King, Director of Safety
Chief Chris Harris, Conway Police Department
Chief Mike Winter, Conway Fire Department
Kaitlyn Ryals, Media Relations Coordinator
Together, they highlight the proactive safety measures, coordinated emergency response strategies, and ongoing efforts that help protect our schools and community. Tune in for an in-depth look at how CPSD and first responders work together to create a secure environment for all.

Friday Jan 17, 2025
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Welcome to the very first episode of the CPSD Safety Podcast Series! In this debut episode, Superintendent Dr. Jeff Collum, Deputy Superintendent Jason Black, Director of Safety Eric King, and Media Relations Coordinator Kaitlyn Ryals come together to share their thoughts on why school safety is a top priority for Conway Public Schools.
Dr. Collum, Mr. Black, and Mr. King open the episode with personal introductions, explaining what drives their passion for creating a safe and secure environment for all students and staff. They also provide an overview of the district's comprehensive safety initiatives and the steps being taken to enhance preparedness across campuses.
In addition, this episode highlights how the community can play a vital role in supporting CPSD’s efforts to keep schools safe and secure.
Tune in to learn more about the district's commitment to safety and how you can be part of this important mission.

Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
In this episode of the CPSD Safety Podcast Series, we continue our discussion on school safety initiatives within Conway Public Schools. This time, we take a closer look at the critical roles of our Campus Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and District Emergency Response Teams (DERT) in maintaining a safe and secure learning environment.
We also hear from two of our dedicated principals, Ms. Amy Howell from Ida Burns Elementary and Mr. Marquis Rogers from Simon Middle School, who share how safety measures are being implemented at their campuses.
Joining the conversation are Superintendent Dr. Jeff Collum, Deputy Superintendent Jason Black, Director of Safety Eric King, and Media Relations Coordinator Kaitlyn Ryals, providing updates and insights into the collaborative efforts that keep our schools prepared and protected.
Don’t miss this deep dive into the strategies and teamwork that make school safety a top priority in CPSD.

Tuesday Jan 14, 2025
Tuesday Jan 14, 2025
To celebrate Principals month, we sat down with Principals Dr. Dayna Lewis from Woodrow Cummins Elementary, Mr. Ty Hendricks from Carl Stuart Middle School, and Marquis Rogers from Simon Middle School to discuss the adventures of being a principal with years of experience and even the inside scoop of being a first year principal.

Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Today we’re diving into some important topics that impact our school community. Join us as we sit down with Assistant Superintendent Dr. Andy Ashley and Safety Director Mr. Eric King, who will share insights on the school district calendar and essential safety tips and initiatives. Plus, don’t miss our special segment where Superintendent Dr. Jeff Collum interviews two inspiring seniors from Conway High School about their journey of perseverance.

Sunday Sep 29, 2024
Sunday Sep 29, 2024
Welcome, Wampus Cats, to the first episode of the Wampus Chat Podcast! As the new school year is back in swing, we are thrilled to kick off this new way of connecting with our Conway School district family. Today’s episode includes, Superintendent Dr. Jeff Collum and Deputy Superintendent Jason Black who share insights on school safety, staff development, and more. Plus, stick around for a special Kindergarten guest!