English as a Second Language (EL)

Bridging Language Gaps, Building Academic Futures

Fort Smith Public Schools is committed to supporting our English Language Learners (ELLs) through the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program. Supported in part by Title III Federal funds, this program assists students who are non-English speaking or have limited English proficiency. Our goal is to assist in their English language acquisition, ensuring they have the tools and support to excel academically alongside their native English-speaking peers.

Our EL Program

Dedicated Team

Our ESL program is led by licensed teachers and trained paraprofessionals who specialize in language development and academic support. Guided by experienced educators, they work one-on-one and in small groups with students to build skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

Ongoing Professional Development

Our educators and paraprofessionals receive continuous training to stay equipped with the latest strategies for supporting English language learners, allowing them to meet both language and academic needs effectively.

Parent and Family Engagement

We recognize the vital role families play in the learning journey. Through our Cafecitos and Family Literacy programs, we provide training, resources, and translation services to empower parents to actively participate in their children’s education.

ESL Contacts and Support Network

Each school within the district has a Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) point person [insert how they're helpful]. For specific support or questions, please reach out to the LPAC representative or ELL contact at your child’s school.

Caitlin Alewine

Assistant Principal

Spradling

Melissa Bridges

Assistant Principal

Park

Lainie Bruce

Counselor

Ramsey

Tammy Chase

Assistant Principal

Kimmons

Jimmy Cook

Assistant Principal

Tilles

Rachael Foster

Assistant Principal - 12th Grade

Southside

Blanca Gonzalez

Teacher Compensatory Ed

Kimmons

Rebecca Kaelin

Middle School Math

Fort Smith Virtual Academy

Kacee Kareus

Assistant Principal

Morrison

Maleb Kelley

Assistant Principal

Darby

Hillary Key

Assistant Principal

Nikki Kilgore

Assistant Principal

Northside

Katie Mankins

Assistant Principal

Chaffin

Amanda Ming

Asst Principal Elem

Barling

Kristi Morris

Assistant Principal

Ballman, Bonneville

Dexter Pendergraft

Assistant Principal

Sutton

Tamraha Pitts Powell

ELL Teacher

Darby

Karen Riley

Assistant Principal

Woods

Hannah Sandifer

Assistant Principal

Cook

Jennifer Scott

Assistant Principal

Howard, Cavanaugh

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Cafecitos

Where Culture and Community Meet

The Cafecito program was created to support Latino immigrant families in their cultural journey and help them feel connected within our school community. Inspired by the cherished Latin American tradition of sharing coffee, Cafecito gatherings provide a relaxed, Spanish-speaking environment where families feel welcomed and engaged without language barriers.

At each Cafecito, parents receive important information on topics such as preparing students for graduation, monitoring academic progress, and staying informed about school events and resources. These meetings also open up discussions on issues important to families, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Feedback from parents shows they deeply value Cafecitos for the warm, inclusive atmosphere and the chance to voice their perspectives. These gatherings help strengthen bonds between families and schools, enhancing support for student success.

For more information, please contact George Griffiths.