How a dietary limitation inspired one Northwest Arkansas baker to feed her community

Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission and Bentonville Public Schools awarded planning grants to advance regional connectivity and educational excellence

Sandi Macklom built a gluten-free baking business after career training at Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food in Bentonville, Arkansas. “I’m so lucky to do what I love every single day of my life," Sandi says. "There is no better feeling in the world.”

Pastry chef Ana Sáenz launched her business, The Magical Spatula, after studying at Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food in Bentonville, Arkansas. While there, Ana gained critical training in culinary nutrition, artisanal food, beverage management and food entrepreneurship. “Brightwater brought so much value to my career. You really learn what food is all about,” Ana says.

Voices of Gen Z study shows the state’s students have higher classroom engagement than the national average

High-quality career and technical education (CTE) programs lead to regional advancement and economic mobility when they align with regional economic needs and provide K-12 students the knowledge, skills and credentials they need for postsecondary success.

The H.I.R.E.D. program pairs students with career coaches to identify their passions and skills – then opens opportunities for them to pursue their goals

For children experiencing trauma, Bentonville’s Hope Academy offers an innovative school model for learning – and healing