Celebrating the 2026 Partners in Education (PIE) Award Recipients

Each year, Fort Smith Public Schools honors outstanding individuals and organizations who go above and beyond in supporting students and schools through the Partners in Education (PIE) program. These honorees embody the spirit of service, collaboration, and community that drives student success.

Norma Shaffer Partnership of the Year Award

Named after Norma Shaffer, who coordinated Partners in Education from 1986 to 1998, this award recognizes outstanding partnerships within our district. Presented annually to one elementary and one secondary or program partnership, it highlights the collaborative spirit that drives our community's success. 

Elementary Winner: Cavanaugh United Methodist Church and Cavanaugh Elementary
Through unwavering commitment, compassion, and consistent involvement, Cavanaugh United Methodist Church has become an integral part of the Cavanaugh school community. Their support extends far beyond occasional service projects, providing students and staff with meaningful resources, encouragement, and opportunities throughout the year.

Led by Pastor Jana Green, the church has helped launch impactful programs such as the Cavanaugh Book Club, secured grant funding, supported classrooms and campus events, and helped meet student needs through food, clothing, school supplies, and mentorship.

Secondary Winner: Georgia Pacific and Kimmons Middle School
Georgia Pacific has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to Kimmons Middle School through consistent support, hands-on involvement, mentorship, and meaningful investment in students and staff.

From volunteering at sixth-grade transition events and family engagement nights to providing financial support for student enrichment opportunities and academic celebrations, Georgia Pacific continues to make a lasting impact on the Kimmons community.

Cathy Williams Partner of the Year Award: Eli Leslie, First Baptist Church

For more than three years, Eli Leslie has consistently gone above and beyond to support students, staff, and families at Tilles Elementary. His dedication is not limited to one event or one initiative—it is reflected in the meaningful relationships he builds and the time he invests in students each week.

Eli has helped bring engaging educational opportunities to campus, supported school incentives and family engagement activities, and most importantly, served as a steady mentor and encouraging presence for students. Every Thursday, Eli meets with a student for lunch in a welcoming and encouraging environment where students laugh, play games, share stories, and feel genuinely valued and supported.

Through his consistency, compassion, and servant leadership, Eli Leslie exemplifies the true spirit of the Cathy Williams Partner of the Year Award.

Bud Jackson Teamwork Award: ArcBest and Southside High School

Samuel “Bud” Jackson, former president of Weldon, Williams & Lick, played a significant role in helping establish meaningful school partnerships within our community.

Named in his honor, the Bud Jackson Teamwork Award celebrates collaboration, teamwork, and shared commitment in support of students and schools.

This year’s Bud Jackson Teamwork Award is presented to ArcBest and its employee mentors in partnership with Southside High School.

ArcBest and its employees have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to mentoring and supporting students through meaningful, student-centered relationships. By allowing employees to volunteer during the workday, ArcBest has removed barriers that often prevent consistent mentorship and has created opportunities for students to connect regularly with caring professionals.

Their mentors help students build confidence, communication skills, and a stronger sense of purpose while providing encouragement and guidance both academically and personally.

Yvonne Keaton-Martin Trailblazer Legacy Award: Gregory Carthon, City of Fort Smith Transit

Mr. Carthon leads by example through his consistent presence, mentorship, and service to students and families. Whether he’s supporting school events, mentoring, or engaging with students across the district, he brings a level of care and commitment that truly stands out. He helps students see what’s possible for their future, and that’s what being a trailblazer is all about.

Volunteer of the Year Award: Margaret Grady, Cook Elementary

Margaret Grady started the year helping the kindergarteners learn how to navigate the Cook Elementary cafeteria. Then, she spent the rest of the year working with first graders on their reading skills. Ms. Grady gave so much of her time, talent, and loving care to the Cook Elementary students.