Justin Rotton | Arkansas Farm Bureau
In rural Arkansas, schools are more than classrooms — they’re the heart of the community. And for Farmington Superintendent Jon Laffoon, that role is both a calling and a responsibility.
Originally from Searcy, Laffoon has spent most of his career in rural education. After leading the Star City School District through financial recovery, he and his wife moved to northwest Arkansas to be closer to family. Now at the helm of one of the state’s fastest-growing districts, he’s found a home in Farmington.
Leading a rapidly expanding district keeps Laffoon’s days full. He starts each morning with Bible study and a gratitude journal before greeting students and parents at school drop-off. From there, no two days are the same.
“You never know where you’ll be — maybe covering lunch duty or meeting with the transportation department,” he says. “I try to keep meetings in the morning so I can be present during dismissal and make sure every student gets home safely.”
Evenings often include after-school programs and events — from FFA to STEM nights and athletics.
“In rural communities, schools are often the center, and athletics is the front porch,” Laffoon explains.
That community-centered mindset drives everything the Farmington School District does. Summer programs offer childcare and academic enrichment for more than 100 students, and Laffoon says the collaboration between families and schools is key.
“We ask what our families need, and in return, they support us — whether it’s raising money for championship rings or helping with drama productions,” he says. Laffoon’s proud of the dedication shown by Farmington’s staff, from summer tutoring to food deliveries.
“In rural districts, staff and the community step up for whatever need is there,” he says. “We’ll do whatever it takes to positively impact kids.”
That commitment recently earned Laffoon a major honor: being named the 2024–2025 Arkansas Rural Education Association North Superintendent of the Year. The recognition, nominated by fellow superintendents, is something he doesn’t take lightly.
“Any award like this is a reflection of the people around you,” Laffoon says. “It’s humbling to be nominated by peers I deeply respect.”
Still, rural education faces big challenges — especially the growing teacher shortage.
“What keeps me up at night is the lack of teachers,” he says. “You’re seeing it across Arkansas — and now even here in northwest Arkansas.”
To address teacher retention, Farmington launched an energy savings project, installing solar panels, switching to LED lighting and implementing water conservation efforts. The $300,000 in annual savings is now used to fund teacher bonuses: $1,000 for staff with 15+ years and $750 for those with less tenure.
Even classified employees receive monthly attendance-based bonuses. “We want everyone to know they’re valued,” Laffoon says.
Looking ahead, Laffoon’s biggest challenge is managing growth. In just five years, Farmington has completed three building projects — and more are planned.
“When you grow this fast, you have to build,” he says. “We’ll need a new school soon, and we’ll need the community’s support, especially with construction costs doubling.”
He’s also focused on helping students navigate new education laws and boosting access to concurrent credit opportunities. Through it all, Laffoon remains grounded in his dedication to the role of rural schools.
“Advocate for your public schools,” he urges. “In many rural towns, the school is the largest employer. With all the change in the world, one thing we can do is stay consistent and support our schools.”
Under Laffoon’s leadership, Farmington schools are doing just that — growing with purpose, grounded in community.