Principal

A note from the principal

Welcome to a brand-new school year at Vaughn Elementary! We are thrilled to welcome your family to the 2026–2027 school year and can’t wait to partner with you on the journey ahead.

This year’s theme is "Building Futures at VES." Like LEGO bricks coming together to create something extraordinary, every member of our school community—students, staff, and families—brings unique strengths, creativity, and dedication to the table. Together, we’re building a strong foundation that connects each learner to their future.

At Vaughn, our mission is clear: Every learner…every day!
We are committed to supporting and challenging every student every single day so they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We also believe in the power of strong relationships and consistent, high-quality instruction to help each learner reach their full potential.

This year, we have an updated vision based on feedback from parents, students, and staff:
We are the foundation that connects every learner to their future.
This vision reflects our belief that Vaughn is a place where student's build the essential skills that prepare them for lifelong success. That foundation includes not only academics, but also the development of social and emotional skills, physical well-being, curiousity, creativity, and confidence. We want every student to leave VES with a strong self of self, a love of learning, and the confidence to pursue their goals. 

As a designated Arkansas Model STEM School, we are proud to continue our commitment to providing authentic, hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This year, we are expanding that work to include the arts, ensuring our students are exposed to a wide range of opportunities that allow them to discover and nurture their unique talents and interests. This deeper integration will help students make meaningful connections between their passions and the opportunities that await them as learners in the Bentonville School District and beyond. 

We also believe the partnership between home and school plays a powerful role in student success. We’re excited to work with you to create a joyful, engaging learning environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired.

We are honored that you’ve chosen Vaughn Elementary as your child’s learning home. Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and trust. We can’t wait to see you soon and begin another great year of learning, growing, and building bright futures—brick by brick.

Warmly,
Shannon Peterson
Principal