ARKADELPHIA, AR, Oct. 22, 2025: – The Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Kristin Cloninger, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher and Internship Supervisor at Arkadelphia Public Schools, as the latest FutureMaker honoree.
The FutureMakers series is dedicated to celebrating the educators, mentors, and community partners who are preparing students for the careers of tomorrow. We aim to share their stories, highlight their impact, and inspire others to join in the work of preparing today’s learners for success in the years ahead. Because the future doesn’t just happen, it’s made.
Mrs. Cloninger teaches Introduction to Business Marketing and oversees the district’s internship and apprenticeship programs. Last year, she supervised 70 students; this year, that number has grown to 82. These programs provide invaluable hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to gain real-world skills that prepare them for their future careers.
Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Cloninger coordinates professional shadowing opportunities and field trips for students to explore Clark County’s businesses and industries. Her innovative teaching approach includes developing new opportunities for career readiness, such as bringing in a local real estate agent to instruct 12 students preparing for the Arkansas Real Estate Exam, a project for which she successfully secured funding.
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, Mrs. Cloninger was awarded an official FutureMakers certificate in a ceremony, alongside school and community leaders at Arkadelphia High School. Posters celebrating her achievements will also be displayed across the community to inspire students, families, and industry partners.
“Mrs. Cloninger takes an interest in each student individually and seeks ways to help them explore and experience their chosen field,” said Donald Westerman, Director of Workforce Development at the Arkadelphia Alliance. “Her positive attitude and passion for career and technical education draw students to her classes and encourage them to pursue their goals with confidence.”
Mrs. Cloninger meets weekly with internship and apprenticeship students to discuss the professional skills they’re developing and how those skills apply in the workplace. Her commitment to mentoring each student with genuine care embodies the spirit of the FutureMakers initiative.
For more information about the Arkadelphia Alliance’s workforce development efforts, visit https://arkadelphiaalliance.com/workforce/.
