Mrs. Ernestine Henderson Acklin graduated from Pine Street High School in Conway in 1967. She earned a BSE in Special Education from University of Central Arkansas. She received her master’s degree in Elementary Education from University of Central Arkansas, where she also received certification in elementary administration.In 1976, she began her career as a fifth grade teacher at Eastside School in Menifee. From 1977-1979, she taught special education at Eastside School.
From 1979 -1999, she taught at Ellen Smith Elementary School. Seven of those years she taught special education. The remaining thirteen years at Ellen Smith were as a second grade classroom teacher.
From 1999-2004, she served as assistant principal for Sallie Cone and Julia Lee Moore Elementary Schools.
From 2004-2008, she served as full-time assistant principal for Julia Lee Moore Elementary School.
After serving from 2008-2013 as full-time assistant principal for Ida Burns Elementary School she retired. Mrs. Acklin was in the field of education for 37 years.