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Partners in Education

Connecting the Classroom to the Community

Building Bridges

Launched in 1982 with a pioneering partnership between Howard Elementary and Weldon, Williams & Lick, the Partners in Education program has grown into a vibrant network of over 200 partners supporting student success across all Fort Smith Public Schools (FSPS).

For over 40 years, our program has fostered meaningful relationships between businesses, community organizations, and schools. These partnerships enhance Student Success goals by bridging classroom learning with real-world experiences. They offer students invaluable insights into various careers and industries, demonstrating how their education connects to future opportunities.

three partners in ed members

What Does a Partner Look Like?

  • Elementary School: Partners may engage in activities such as volunteering at events like field days and family nights, participating in career day events, mentoring students, or providing rewards for academic achievements.

  • Middle & High School: Partnerships at these levels often focus on career education. Partners might model success, discuss business opportunities, sponsor events or clubs, and inspire students with their professional experiences.

A Focus on Relationships

While financial donations are appreciated, the heart of our Partners in Education program is the relationships built between partners and schools. These connections are essential in supporting and enriching the educational experience for our students.

PIE Awards

Honoring Commitment and Collaboration

At FSPS, we believe in recognizing the extraordinary efforts of individuals and organizations that contribute significantly to our educational community. The Partners in Education Awards are testament to the power of partnership and the impact they have on our students' lives. 

Bud Jackson Teamwork Award

In honor of the pioneering vision of Samuel "Bud" Jackson, former president of Weldon, Williams & Lick, this award celebrates exceptional teamwork in fostering school partnerships. It symbolizes the enduring bond between Weldon, Williams, & Lick and Howard Elementary, and the growth of our Partners in Education Program. 

Cathy Williams Partner of the Year Award

Established in 2011, this award acknowledges an individual's enduring and impactful support to a school through the PIE program. It's a tribute to those who, like Cathy Williams, dedicate themselves to enriching our educational environment. 

Norma Shaffer Partnership of the Year Award

Named after Norma Shaffer, who coordinated Partner 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. 

Partners in Education Advisory Board

Guiding Our Partnership Journey

The Partners in Education Advisory Board is composed of dedicated professionals from various sectors, including business owners, organization leaders, and members of FSPS. The board plays a pivotal role in shaping and guiding our partnership strategies and supporting our community engagement initiatives. 

Advisory Board

Tim Bailey, Candy Craze
Tammy Roper, Comprehensive Juvenile Services
Beverly Elam, Centennial Bank 
Eddie Lee Herndon, OG&E
Carrie Terry, OG&E
Craig Pair, Control Technologies, Inc. 
Sherry Sims, community member
Hallie Smith, Rheem Inc.
Jennier Caldwell, Arvest Bank
Cathy Creekmore, Harry Robinson
[open], Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Terry Morawski, Superintendent, FSPS
Martin Mahan, Deputy Superintendent, FSPS
Zena Featherston Marshall, Executive Director of Community & Business Partnerships, FSPS
Tiffany Bone, Assistant Superintendent Curriculum & Instruction, FSPS

Become a Partner

Interested in becoming a partner? Fill out an application and send to partners@fortsmithschools.org to get started.

Application