LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Pulaski County Special School District recognized three individuals at its Oct. 14 board meeting for their contributions to education, leadership and service. The honorees included a student leader, a dedicated educator and a Vietnam veteran alumnus.
Student Board Member: Liam French
Maumelle High School senior Liam French was named the October 2025 student board member. French is active in student council, National Honor Society, Teen Court and serves as a student ambassador. He is also enrolled in the Central Arkansas Water Academy of Science & Construction. Recently accepted to Arkansas State University, French plans to pursue veterinary medicine and eventually open his own business. With three years of animal care experience, he hopes to graduate with honors and begin his professional journey.
Inspiration in Education: Chardé Wilson
Chardé Wilson, instructional coach at Mills Middle School, received the October 2025 Inspiration in Education award. Wilson has 12 years of experience in education and holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, a master’s degree in educational leadership and a special education resource certificate. She previously served as a Title I reading teacher and was the first in Arkansas to implement AVID Excel. Wilson was also named Teacher of the Year and has mentored fellow educators throughout her career.
“What continues to inspire me is seeing our teachers give their best every day through implementing best practices we build together through PLCs and our strong teacher support system,” she said.
Alumnus Recognition: David Hoss
The board also honored David Hoss, who attended Fuller High School in the 1960s. Hoss enlisted in the military before he could graduate, serving in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969. Several of his classmates were killed in action, and Hoss carried those memories with him for decades.
Earlier this school year, Hoss asked if he could receive a 1967 diploma from the now-closed Fuller High School. With support from fellow alumni and Jostens, PCSSD made that wish come true.
Hoss accepted the diploma at the board meeting, where he shared reflections on his service and the challenges of returning home. “I’m proud of what I did. I should have went ahead and finished school, but I just couldn't do it,” he said. “People don’t realize what you go through in that situation.”
His story served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by PCSSD alumni.
These honorees exemplify the values of PCSSD — past, present and future — and continue to inspire the district community.