It's time to make nominations for 2023-2024!

• District employees who have worked for the district for five years or less may be nominated for the Ignite Award. This recognizes their energy and willingness to serve up a great education for students. These new employees demonstrate commitment to students, professional learning and leadership development.

• A Kind Counts Award recognizes employees who are models of respect and kindness, and who build meaningful and productive relationships with students and colleagues.

• The Foundation’s Every Day Leader Award is designed as a shout-out to great employees who make a significant sustained impact on learning in and out of the classroom.

Nominations for the 1st quarter are currently being evaluated and will be awarded soon. We had an incredible number of nominations this quarter. The total number of nominees for the first quarter of 2023-2024 exceeded the entire 2022-2023 school year! Wow! You guys rock!

The nomination form is currently open and accepting nominations for the 2nd quarter of 2023-2024! Nominate FSPS Staff here.

Our Partners in Education program is an important part of FSPS student success! We would love to highlight your organization working with our kids. Please share pictures and activity explanations with us by emailing us at partners@fortsmithschools.org.

Below are just a few things submitted by schools and grabbed from social media over the last few of weeks.

First graders at Cavanaugh took part in a study about Native Americans. As part of the grant submitted by Ms. Zirbel, Native American storyteller Isaac Scott came to Cavanaugh and spoke with students about the Choctaw language, songs and folklore. In the weeks leading up to Mr. Scott's visit, kids learned about the Native American culture. What an exciting educational opportunity!

Interested in becoming a Partner in Education, Volunteer or Mentor?

If so, please fill out an application.

Need more information about being a Partner in Education? Here's a quick FAQ sheet to answer some of your questions!

The Partners in Education (PIE) Program establishes mutually beneficial relationships between businesses and schools. The business, community agency or organization and partner school commit themselves to reciprocal activities that are based on the needs and resources. Partnership activities and events are aligned with the goals of the school and school district. For more information, contact Zena Featherston Marshall, Executive Director of Community & Business Partnerships at 479-785-2501, ext. 91301 or email zfeatherston@fortsmithschools.org.