Career & Technical Education
Empowering Students, Launching Careers
Fort Smith Public Schools recognizes that every student's journey is unique, and college isn't the only path to success. That's why FSPS offers a robust Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, designed to provide students with a head start on their futures. Our CTE program introduces students to a variety of career pathways tailored to their individual skills and interests. By combining hands-on learning with industry-specific knowledge, we empower students to explore and excel in fields that inspire them, ensuring they are well-prepared for a successful career.
Fostering Career Exploration from K-12
Fort Smith Public Schools is committed to fostering career exploration and development from an early age and throughout their school journey. Starting in elementary school (K-5), engaging activities such as school-wide and grade-specific career fairs spark interest in a variety of career paths. As students progress to middle school (6-8), they delve deeper into exploring and experiencing various career fields, discovering their interests and strengths along the way. They begin to identify the most suitable programs of study, laying a solid foundation for the transition to high school. In grades 9 and 10, the focus shifts to career planning and goal-setting, empowering students to start charting their paths forward. By grades 11 and 12, students engage in specialized programs of study that provide hands-on experience and targeted knowledge, preparing them for their future careers.
Explore our course catalog to learn more about our CTE program and offerings.
Launching Careers with Industry Certifications and Internships
Fort Smith Public Schools offers students the opportunity to attend the Peak Innovation Center, where they can earn industry-specific certifications and even an associate's degree at no cost. The district collaborates closely with local businesses to provide internship opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable real-world experience before high school graduation.
Our Career and Technical Education program plays a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals. It equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive after high school and become productive members of society.
CTE Pathways
College Credit
Accelerate Your Academic Journey
In collaboration with the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith (UAFS), Fort Smith Public Schools (FSPS) offers juniors and seniors the opportunity to take concurrent credit classes at their high school during regular class hours. These classes, taught by UAFS instructors cover a variety of subjects tailored to each school’s requirements. Students can enroll in these classes when selecting their coursework for the upcoming school year. To qualify, students must have an ACT score of 19 or higher and complete the standard UAFS admission process.
Participation in concurrent classes is free for FSPS students. For more information on specific classes offered, view the course catalog or contact your school's counselor.
Charting Futures with Naviance
Guiding Academic and Career Success from K-12
The Fort Smith Public School utilizes Naviance, a comprehensive K-12 College and Career Planning tool, to provide students with resources and guidance for navigating their academic journey. Students can use this tool to strategize their high school courses, construct digital portfolios, and prepare for life after graduation. Using Naviance, students are empowered to align their strengths and interests with their goals and career ambitions. FSPS equips students the tools they need to make informed decisions about their educational paths and future careers.
Parent accounts are available for those who want to stay informed about their child's academic and career planning programs. Contact your child's school counselor for login credentials.
Contact Our Team
![Dr. Gary Udouj]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/bgpiw9v1vyoz5t18meqg/DrGaryUdouj.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/bgpiw9v1vyoz5t18meqg/DrGaryUdouj.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/bgpiw9v1vyoz5t18meqg/DrGaryUdouj.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/bgpiw9v1vyoz5t18meqg/DrGaryUdouj.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/bgpiw9v1vyoz5t18meqg/DrGaryUdouj.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/bgpiw9v1vyoz5t18meqg/DrGaryUdouj.jpg","width":2200}])
Director of Career Education and District Innovation
Over his 29-year career, Dr. Gary Udouj has contributed to developing and enhancing educational programs in various settings, both in the United States and overseas.
Udouj taught in higher education and adult education settings from 1995 to 2007. Gary's leadership skills and passion for adult education led him to the position of Director of Adult Education from 2008 to 2019. During this period, he made significant strides in creating an environment that empowered adult learners to excel and achieve their educational goals. In 2019, Gary's journey in education took a new turn as he assumed the Director of Career Education and District Innovation role.
![Dr. Samantha Hall]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/mkjemxalrlxskt8otizc/DrSamanthaHall.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/mkjemxalrlxskt8otizc/DrSamanthaHall.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/mkjemxalrlxskt8otizc/DrSamanthaHall.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/mkjemxalrlxskt8otizc/DrSamanthaHall.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/mkjemxalrlxskt8otizc/DrSamanthaHall.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1707841982/fortsmithschoolsorg/mkjemxalrlxskt8otizc/DrSamanthaHall.jpg","width":2200}])
Assistant Director of District Innovation
Dr. Samantha Hall is a dedicated educator with a career spanning 33 years in the Fort Smith School district. Her journey in education commenced in 1991, and throughout the years, she has made significant contributions in various capacities.
Dr. Hall's passion for teaching led her to serve as a Math Teacher at Chaffin Junior High from 1991 to 2003. She demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and transitioned to Assistant Principal at Darby Junior High, where she served from 2003 to 2007. Continuing her commitment to education, Dr. Hall took on the role of Assistant Principal at Southside High School from 2007 to 2013.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Dr. Hall assumed the position of Supervisor of Professional Development from 2013 to 2020. Currently, she serves as the Assistant Director of District Innovation, where she continues to shape the future of education.