Teachers add humor and fun activities that go along with the lesson that we learn, which makes it easier to understand. They also encourage you to be at your fullest potential.
— Nigel

Greetings from the Principal:
     Since Cavanaugh School was established in the Cavanaugh Community in 1895, we have been providing children in southwest Fort Smith with a solid and sound educational foundation.  As is our tradition, Cavanaugh School boasts a talented and committed faculty dedicated to academic excellence and personal success for all students.
     Cavanaugh School is proud of our rich history and strives to ensure students continuously receive memorable and meaningful elementary school experiences.  Our teachers constantly seek to broaden their instructional skills through their participation in professional development activities and advance degree courses of study.  Several Cavanaugh teachers have received local, state, or national recognitions due to their exceptional teaching talents and professionalism.  Life-long learning is instilled in our students through the example set for them by our dedicated and highly skilled staff.
     As the Cavanaugh community continues to be developing, the need for classroom and building expansion prompted the Fort Smith Public Schools to expand our existing building which was built in 1963.  Cavanaugh School is able to afford students with an opportunity to attend a beautiful facility which blends our past with the present.  With nine new classrooms, an expansive media center, administrative offices, and expanded parking, Cavanaugh School provides students a first-class learning institution which possesses highly trained and proven teachers.  We foster the belief that all students deserve the very best every day.  At Cavanaugh School, we do our best to enable students to experience lifetime success!

Hank Needham, Principal

Mission Statement: 

At Cavanaugh Elementary School, we believe that every child can learn and experience success. We are committed to providing a safe learning environment that will develop educated, productive, and responsible citizens.

School mascot: Cougar

School colors: Red & white

School motto: “Doing our best for student success.”

This School is accredited by the North Central Association and the Arkansas Department of Education.