10 Aug 2025 Big, bigger Bigelow

Posted at 5:09 PMh in News by

The East End School District in Bigelow (Perry County) recently announced a major milestone in its commitment to student success and community growth. Thanks to a $4.2 million partnership grant from the state of Arkansas, the district will soon begin construction on a portion of the high school to better serve its student population. The grant required a 58-year-old portion of the high school to be demolished in order to fund the new expansion being built in its place.

School board members Heather Fulmer (from left), Gloria Mabry, Brandi Edwards and Autumn Fulton; Superintendent Heidi Wilson; and board member Jessica Burgess at the groundbreaking ceremony. The expansion uses a $4.2 million state partnership grant to support the project with no millage increase for taxpayers.

“This exciting project at Bigelow High School is made possible without any increase in local millage, ensuring taxpayers receive the benefits of expanded educational facilities without additional financial burden,” said Heidi Wilson, district superintendent.

Home of the Panthers, the district has 680 students from pre-K through 12th grade. 

“We’re thrilled to move forward with this expansion and deeply grateful for the state’s investment in our students and community,” Wilson said. “This project represents our continued focus on providing safe, modern and future-ready learning spaces—while being fiscally responsible.”

A rendering of the new construction was provided by Lewis Architects Engineers of Little Rock.

Construction on the new high school addition is expected to begin this summer, with completion projected for July 2026. The updated facilities will include a new cafeteria and kitchen, several classrooms, labs, a safe room and a band room.