Don Benton, assistant professor in educational leadership at Henderson State University, has been named the new assistant commissioner for research and technology for the Arkansas Department of Education. Benton will assume the role on Sept. 17.
As assistant commissioner, according to a news release, Benton will oversee technology initiatives and resources such as ADE’s Ambassador Academy, Arkansas Digital Sandbox and Student GPS dashboards. He also will oversee the Arkansas Public School Computer Network, which includes eSchoolPlus.
Benton has been the director of the Hot Springs Technology Institute since 1998 and founded Schools Without Walls, which provides professional development for technology leaders and educators.
He previously served as the director of technology and information, information technology security officer/disaster recovery, technology plan developer and E-Rate coordinator at the Hot Springs School District.
Benton has a Bachelor of Science in Education (Vocational Business Education), a Master of Science in Education (P-12 Building Level Leadership) and an Education Specialist in District Level Leadership from Henderson. He currently is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Educational Technology from Boise State University in Idaho.