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.

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

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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 we grabbed from social media over the last couple of weeks.

Instructor Nate Kyrouac is working with his Skilled Trades students at Peak on creating Christmas trees to be used in the City of Fort Smith, Arkansas "Christmas in Cisterna". The trees will be painted by students at Fort Smith Public Schools elementary and secondary schools and will be on display at Cisterna Park from Thanksgiving until January 3rd. Big thanks to Yeager Hardware for donating the wood! Thanks to Phil White and 64.6 Downtown for coordinating this great project!

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The Fort Smith Police Public Safety Cadet Program is calling YOU! Applications are LIVE NOW!

Are you aged 16-20 and ready to make your mark? This is YOUR moment to shine and grow!

What's waiting for you:

- Guided by public safety pros

- Real-world experiences that count

- Adventures that shape character

- Challenges that boost fitness

- Strong respect for the law

Your mission is clear: Serve your community, learn essential skills, and transform into a confident leader. Our seasoned pros are ready to mentor you.

Here's the deal: We're looking for 15 exceptional individuals to join this life-changing journey. To secure your spot, ace a background check and interview.

Don't miss out! Apply NOW for a shot at being part of this incredible experience. Even if you're not among the first 15, waitlisted candidates could grab a spot later.

Starting this September - get set for a future in public service!

But wait, here's a must: Cadets are required to have and maintain a 2.0 GPA and have transportation for classes. Classes are twice a month – Wednesday evening and Saturday morning.

Ready to spark change? Apply TODAY and ignite a brighter future in your community. To apply, use the link below:

https://docs.google.com/.../1gKueEjiS_mQB.../viewform...

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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!

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead

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.