The Pine Bluff School District is mourning the death of former Superintendent Frank Anthony, a longtime Arkansas educator who spent more than four decades in public education.
Anthony dedicated 43 years to education, including 12 years as superintendent of the Pine Bluff School District. He initially served as superintendent from 1999 until his retirement in 2009 before returning to lead the district from 2009 to 2011.
Anthony later served as superintendent of the Dollarway School District from 2012 to 2013. His career also included service as an assistant director with the Arkansas Department of Education and leadership positions in the Eudora, Wilmot and Warren school districts.
During his time in Pine Bluff, Anthony helped lead the district through financial challenges and changes to grade configurations. He also oversaw several major capital improvement projects, including the rebuilding of Broadmoor Elementary and Thirty-Fourth Elementary schools and the addition of the Academy Building on the Pine Bluff High School campus.
The district said Anthony was also known for mentoring educators and school administrators throughout Arkansas. His influence extended beyond his years as superintendent as he helped guide individuals who later moved into leadership positions in education.
In announcing his passing Wednesday, the Pine Bluff School District described Anthony as an educational leader whose career had a lasting impact on students, educators and families.
The district extended condolences to Anthony’s family, friends, former colleagues and students and said his contributions to public education would continue to be remembered.
