Hot Springs School District

Hot Springs, AR (April 15, 2025) — The Hot Springs School District is proud to announce Marissa Burton's selection as Principal of Park Magnet, an IB World School. A dedicated educator with deep roots in the community and the campus she now leads, Burton brings more than a decade of experience and a passion for academic excellence to her new role.

Burton, a lifelong resident of Hot Springs and a graduate of Lakeside High School, began her journey in education as a substitute teacher at Park Magnet before officially joining the Hot Springs School District in 2011. Over the past 14 years, she has served in a variety of roles at Park, including first grade and kindergarten teacher before moving into the role of Assistant Principal and International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) Coordinator. She was honored as Park’s Teacher of the Year in both 2015 and 2020.

“I am so excited to take on this new role and continue to foster academic excellence at Park,” said Burton. “My goal as a leader is to cultivate a school where every student is supported, challenged, and motivated to reach their full potential.”

Burton earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Henderson State University in 2010. She later completed her Master’s Degree in Educational Theory and Practice, as well as her Educational Specialist Degree in Principalship, both from Arkansas State University.

“As an IB World School, we are uniquely positioned to nurture globally minded learners who are ready to make a difference in the world,” she said. “I look forward to building on our school’s strong foundation and continuing to grow together as a community of learners.”

Outside of school, Burton enjoys spending time with her husband, Clinton, and their three sons—Max, Sam, and Wes. Max and Sam are current Park students, making her connection to the campus both professional and personal. Together, the family enjoys outdoor activities with their dogs and movie nights.

Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Nehus shared her confidence in Burton’s leadership: “Mrs. Burton’s dedication to Park Magnet and its students has been unwavering. Her experience, passion for education, and commitment to the IB philosophy make her the perfect choice to lead Park into its next chapter.”

Burton officially steps into her new role at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year.

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About the Hot Springs School District: Founded in 1881, the Hot Springs School District is a unified Trojan family of campuses spread across multiple historic school sites in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Our mission is to educate and empower students to graduate from high school college and/or career-ready, respect diversity, and be contributing members of a global society. The Hot Springs School District is Diverse. Dedicated. Unified. A Place for Everyone.