Clinton School of Public Service graduate Jaylin Sprout (’21) has joined Forward Arkansas as a Programs Associate, stepping into a key role dedicated to enhancing the state’s Pre-K-12 education system and expanding opportunities for students across Arkansas.
Established in 2015 by the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation and the Walton Family Foundation, Forward Arkansas works to elevate student learning from early childhood through high school graduation by partnering with educators and leaders to turn promising best practices into lasting impact.
“We’ve set a bold goal to strengthen the education continuum by turning promising best practices into real impact for Arkansas students,” said Edie Stewart, CEO of Forward Arkansas. “With her unique experiences, Jaylin is well-equipped to support our efforts as we expand our partnerships with great teachers and leaders across the state.”
Sprout, a Hope native and summa cum laude graduate of Lyon College, earned her Master of Public Service from the Clinton School to build practical skills in community development, policy analysis, and program evaluation.
“Growing up in Hope and being raised by two public school educators, I learned early how deeply schools shape both students and communities,” Sprout said. “My parents’ example shaped my passion for education and my commitment to creating stronger opportunities for Arkansas students. I’m excited to bring that perspective to my role at Forward Arkansas and contribute to the work of educators and leaders across the state.”
During her time at the Clinton School, Sprout applied her research training directly to Arkansas’s educational landscape, conducting statewide project research for entities such as the Arkansas Department of Education and the Arkansas STEM Coalition.
Prior to joining Forward Arkansas, Sprout gained valuable sector experience serving as a program associate for an international nonprofit organization and as a learning coach for an online K-12 school program. She became a certified Professional Community and Economic Developer in 2025.
In her new role at Forward Arkansas, Sprout will work directly alongside the programs team to support educators, strengthen learning pathways, and help prepare Arkansas students for college, career, and life success.