Midland School District breaks ground on new facilities

The ceremony kicked off with an energetic performance by the Midland Mustangs Cheer Team, setting the tone for an afternoon filled with pride and excitement for what’s ahead.

Speaking on behalf of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, CEO Crystal Johnson emphasized the importance of creating safe, innovative learning environments where students can connect, belong, and grow.

“This project represents exactly what we dream of in building a stronger future through education,” Johnson said. “It takes grit, determination, and a community working together to bring something like this to life.”

Superintendent Toby Crosby reflected on the district’s legacy since the 1986 consolidation of Pleasant Plains and Floral, noting that the project is more than construction—it's a commitment to opportunity and progress.

“Today’s groundbreaking is more than just the start of a construction project,” Crosby said. “It reflects our belief that our rural school matters and that our students deserve every opportunity to succeed.”

Incoming K-12 Principal Cindy Armstrong highlighted the community’s role in making the project possible, calling the new facility a shared vision for student success.

“Because of your belief in our schools and your willingness to invest in our future, we are creating a space that will better serve our students for years to come,” Armstrong said.

Student Council President Andee Whitener spoke on behalf of the student body, emphasizing that the new building represents opportunity, growth, and belief in the next generation.

“This isn’t just about a new building—it’s about building opportunities, possibilities, and a stronger future for everyone who walks through these halls,” Whitener said.

Former Midland Elementary Principal Bani’ Meharg delivered heartfelt remarks, reflecting on more than 50 years of connection to the district and celebrating the legacy, resilience, and pride that define the Mustang community.

“If you want to grow, you have to build,” Meharg said. “Today starts a new chapter while carrying forward the spirit of everything Midland has always been.”

Representing the construction team, Taylor Meharg of FARCO Contractors expressed gratitude for the trust placed in their team.

“Because of this leadership and the support of this community, this project will provide pivotal upgrades for future generations,” Meharg said.

Arkansas State Representative Shad Pierce closed out the remarks by underscoring the importance of investing in rural schools.

“I consider small rural schools the heartbeat—the grandparents—of our communities,” Pierce said. “What you’re building here is a foundation for growth and opportunity.”

To conclude the ceremony, representatives from each grade level, along with school board members and administrators, took part in the ceremonial first shovel turn—officially launching construction on a project that will serve generations to come.

This new high school and cafeteria will provide modern learning spaces, enhanced opportunities, and a strengthened sense of community, ensuring Midland students are equipped to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Today, Midland didn’t just break ground; they built momentum for the future.

Ambassadors in attendance included: Aaron Herndon (Citizens Bank), Alex McClain (Myers-Davis Life Coaching), Ashlyn Blevins Myers-Davis Life Coaching), Christina Watts (Lacroix Precision Optics), Crystal Kimmer (White River Health), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Robert Stephens (Network of Community Options), Sarah Perkins (Mossy Oak Properties), Sarah York (Southern Bank), Silje Antonsen (First Community Bank), and Taylor Williams (First Community Bank).