The Allen School

Don't forget to buy your raffle ticket for a chance to win a custom wreath this week! Thanks to staff and parents for these unique creations! Just $1 per ticket! Tickets may only be purchased in person, we cannot accept electronic payment for a ticket.

The Mount St. Mary's Mu Alpha Theta Club deserves appreciation for assisting in the packaging of new books for the children's gifts from Santa. Additionally, they donated new math-focused books to support the cause. Led by Mrs. Oceana McMahon, Mu Alpha Theta is a mathematics club that promotes academic excellence. Literacy Opportunities, launched by The Allen School Executive Director, Sherrie Ivy five years ago, aims to promote literacy for the children attending the school. This year's donation was also funded by the Taylor Endowment, supporting the school's children and their classrooms.

The Allen School families have shown off again! These turkeys look amazing!

Our pumpkin wall is looking fabulous! Thank you to our families for creating these! Each one is as unique as our children!

In 1958, with the vision and support of Monsignor Francis A. Allen of Our Lady of Holy Souls Catholic Church, a small school opened its doors in a house on Harrison Street. It was called Our Lady of Holy Souls School for Exceptional Children. As the needs of the community grew, so did the school—eventually expanding into the house next door, connected by a glass walkway.
By 1975, thanks to overwhelming support from local businesses, physicians, and a state representative, The Allen School received a grant from the Mental Ret*rdation-Developmental Disabilities Services to help build a new $100,000 facility at our current location on H and Tyler Streets. The photo below is from that groundbreaking ceremony in October 1975—a moment that marked a new chapter in our mission.
As I read through old newspaper clippings and letters saved in a photo album, I was struck by how progressive and compassionate the school’s founding philosophy was. These five principles stood out:
1. Every child is capable of learning, regardless of IQ.
2. Families should not bear financial burdens—tuition was just $15/month, and today, thanks to Medicaid and generous donors, families pay nothing out of pocket.
3. Our children deserve the best—from equipment to care, excellence has always been the standard.
4. All faiths are welcome—though founded by a Catholic church, the school has always embraced inclusivity.
5. And this quote that still resonates today: “Thank God you are the helping hand and not the hand extended for help.”
I’m now in my 24th year serving the families of The Allen School, and I continue to be inspired by the legacy we carry forward. Here’s to 67 years of love, learning, and service—and may we be blessed to serve for 100 more.

Congratulations to Sammy’s Bookshelf on their grand opening! We are appreciative of the support they have shown The Allen School. We love being a part of a community that supports each other with a common goal of bettering the lives of families in our area.

Sneak peek at our raffles for tomorrow! Grand opening fun all day. Princess at 11:00, local author at 2, and raffles all day long! Free cookie or lemonade @therootcafe with receipt from Sammy’s. #independentbookstore #westlittlerock #grandopening

The Allen School is grateful to James Rouse of the Arkansas Securities Department for taking the time to visit and learn about our mission and programs. We appreciate your willingness to support us as we strive to provide the best possible programming for our families and community. James Rouse Arkansas Securities Department

We are pleased to announce the arrival of Olivia Lott, the newest member of our therapy team at The Allen School. Olivia, originally from Tupelo, MS, completed her undergraduate studies at Mississippi State University and her Master's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Ole Miss. As a certified SLP with one year of experience and her CCC certification, Olivia brings a high level of expertise to our team. Her kind and compassionate nature makes her an excellent therapist. Olivia’s hobbies include playing pickleball, walking with friends, and cheering on the MSU Bulldogs. "My favorite part about being a pediatric speech therapist is helping children discover that their communication has meaning and makes an impact!"

One year has passed since we said goodbye to Kylan Jordan Bradley, one of our precious students. Recently, we paid tribute to him through a room dedication and memorial balloon release. We aspire for Kylan's legacy of resilience and bravery to remain a powerful reminder for all.

Welcome to our newest Occupational Therapist to join The Allen School! Stephanie Wise has been a pediatric OT for 9 years. She graduated from the University of Arkansas with her Bachelors in Biology and Psychology, and from Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine with her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy.

Outside of work she loves to travel as much as possible, go to concerts, read, craft, be outside, and spend time with her family and friends.

We are so excited to have her and the wonderful experience she offers the team. Welcome, Stephanie!

Don’t forget to show up and support this wonderful family this Thursday, May 15 at 5:00! We will be holding a room dedication and balloon release event to honor this precious former student, and we encourage everyone to wear red, white, blue in honor of Kylan’s favorite superhero. Can’t wait to see you there!

We are delighted to announce that Mallory, our talented speech therapist, has completed her clinical fellowship year and achieved her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCCs). Her commitment to excellence is truly commendable, and we are honored to have her as part of our team!