Education shapes who we become, not only through academics, but through the environments that nurture confidence, creativity, and resilience. Every school has its own way of inspiring students, and every classroom holds the potential to spark curiosity that lasts a lifetime.
This year’s Profiles in Education celebrates the people and programs devoted to guiding young learners toward their full potential. Inside, you’ll meet educators who create spaces where students feel seen, encouraged, and challenged in meaningful ways. Their approaches may differ, but their mission is shared: to support each child’s growth with intention, heart, and unwavering commitment.
Profiles in EDUCATION
Education shapes who we become, not only through academics, but through the environments that nurture confidence, creativity, and resilience. Every school has its own way of inspiring students, and every classroom holds the potential to spark curiosity that lasts a lifetime.
This year’s Profiles in Education celebrates the people and programs devoted to guiding young learners toward their full potential. Inside, you’ll meet educators who create spaces where students feel seen, encouraged, and challenged in meaningful ways. Their approaches may differ, but their mission is shared: to support each child’s growth with intention, heart, and unwavering commitment.
1 st LUTHERAN SCHOOL
For more than 170 years, 1st Lutheran School has provided a nurturing, faith-rooted learning environment where children grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually. With small classes, dedicated teachers, and a welcoming family culture, the school offers a strong foundation for students from early childhood through fifth grade.
FAST FACTS
Enrollment: 144
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Specialty Programs: 5th Grade Band, Resource Program
Extracurriculars: Basketball, Majorettes, Running Club, Board Game Club
Accolades: Purple Star School, NLSA Accreditation, GROW Grant Recipient; Excellence in Standardized Testing (2024)
CONTACT
479.452.5330 | 1stlutheran.com 2407 Massard Road, Fort Smith
HOW DOES YOUR SCHOOL’S MISSION GUIDE THE ACADEMIC AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT OF YOUR STUDENTS?
Our mission is anchored in three pillars—Christ-centered, family-focused, and student-driven—and they shape every part of school life. We want families to feel Christ at the heart of both learning and play, and we welcome parents as true partners through chapel, classroom involvement, and our Panther PTO. Because we are student-driven, we focus on equipping each learner through strong academics, personal attention, and opportunities that help them grow in confidence and purpose.
WHAT CLASSROOM PRACTICES OR PROGRAMS BEST SUPPORT INDIVIDUALIZED LEARNING AT 1ST LUTHERAN?
Students learn best when they feel seen, supported, and truly known by their teachers. Our small class sizes allow educators to build strong relationships and provide the personal attention each child needs to thrive. Because teachers understand their students well, they can quickly recognize when extra support or enrichment is needed and adjust instruction accordingly. We also offer a dedicated resource program for students who benefit from additional guidance. Through one-on-one or small-group instruction, this program helps strengthen key skills, reinforce classroom learning, and ensure every student can reach their full academic potential.
FORT SMITH PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Built on a culture of excellence, Fort Smith Public Schools has long provided challenging academic instruction in a caring, safe, and nurturing environment. The district is committed to excellence beyond the classroom, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed in every area of life. Whether in the classroom, on the field, on stage, or in the community, FSPS strives to bring out the best in every student and prepare them to become responsible, engaged citizens. More than a district, Fort Smith Public Schools represents a legacy of opportunity, growth, and achievement for families across the River Valley.
FAST FACTS
Enrollment: 13,000+
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Special Programs: Health Sciences Academy (Darby Middle School), Emerging Art & Design (Peak Innovation Center), Computer Science Academy (Chaffin Middle School)
Planned: Global Innovation Academy (Bonneville Elementary)
CONTACT
fortsmithschools.org | 479.785.2501
3205 Jenny Lind Road, Fort Smith
WHAT UNIQUE ACADEMIC, CAREER, OR EXTRACURRICULAR PATHWAYS MAKE YOUR DISTRICT STAND OUT?
We offer a variety of pathways that help students discover and develop their talents. In elementary, students can join competitive robotics teams that frequently advance to state and national competitions.
At Darby Middle School’s Health Sciences Academy, students gain hands-on health care experience through partnerships with Mercy and Baptist Health. Next year, Chaffin Middle School will launch a Computer Science Academy for sixth-grade students, offering early exposure to coding, robotics, and digital design. FSPS high school students can earn a free associate’s degree through the Peak Innovation Center. Peak also offers the Emerging Art & Design program, an exclusive opportunity available only to FSPS students.
These specialty programs encourage students to explore their passions, build future-ready skills, and chart a path toward long-term success.
Fort Smith Public Schools
HOLLYHOCK MONTESSORI
Hollyhock Montessori is a small, nonprofit school serving children ages 3–6 in a single, mixed-age classroom. Our program offers a thoughtful, connected early learning experience that nurtures the whole child: socially, academically, creatively, and emotionally. Degreed and certified teachers foster curiosity and independence, and our intentionally small community supports strong relationships with children and families. We partner closely with parents to guide early development, and we accept state preschool and kindergarten vouchers to make our program accessible to more families.
FAST FACTS
Enrollment: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1
Special Programs:
Preschool & Kindergarten
EFA and Childcare Vouchers Accepted
CONTACT
479.755.8172 | hollyhockmontessori.org
616 S. 17th Street, Fort Smith
WHAT MAKES YOUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT DIFFERENT FROM A TRADITIONAL EARLY CHILDHOOD OR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SETTING?
We offer something truly unique in this area. First, we specialize in one developmental stage, allowing us to do one thing very well. Second, we blend the child-led, interest-rich learning families love about homeschooling with the benefits of a community: peers, trained teachers, and a strong, research-backed foundation for future academics. And because we remain intentionally small, our learning environment stays connected and deeply intentional.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR STUDENTS ENGAGING IN SELF-PACED, HANDS-ON WORK?
Our classroom functions like a learning laboratory. Teachers closely observe, assess needs, and prepare work to meet those needs. On any given day, one child is counting a chain of 100 beads, another writing a story, and a third making a necklace for his mom. An older child might show a younger friend how to clean their face after snack while two friends play a sound game. We place a strong emphasis on creating. Children sew, craft, build, paint, and design every day.
VAN BUREN SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Van Buren School District seeks to empower every student by providing a supportive learning environment that inspires academic excellence, personal growth, and a lifelong passion for learning. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, VBSD prepares students to become responsible, engaged, and successful members of the Van Buren community and beyond. Educators nurture critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, ensuring each student is equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world. Together, the district strives for Pointer Excellence—setting the standard for achievement, leadership, and community pride. Follow @VBSDPointers on social media or visit the district website to stay informed on all Pointer Nation news and events.
BY THE NUMBERS
Enrollment: 5,577
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 89%
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
River Valley Virtual Academy
Gifted & Talented Education
ALE/HUB
Advanced Placement Courses
Concurrent Credit with ATU, ATU–Ozark, and UAFS WATC Pointer Greens Aquaponic Garden
ACCOLADES
Purple Star District, Arkansas Council for Military Families
Best Public School System, Best of River Valley (2023, 2024, 2025)
Top Public School, The Official Community’s Choice Awards 2025
ASBA 2025 Excellence in Leadership Award
CONTACT
479.474.7942 | vbsd.us
2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren
HOW DOES VBSD SUPPORT WELLNESS, SUSTAINABILITY, AND STRONG COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS?
VBSD operates numerous programs that promote wellness and sustainability across the district. Launched in 2024, the Pointer Greens Aquaponic Garden supplies cafeterias with organic lettuce and fresh fish, while also generating revenue and creating hands-on learning opportunities. Several campuses maintain thriving gardens of their own, including the Van Buren Freshman Academy’s expansive greenhouse used for agricultural studies.
Walking trails and outdoor fitness stations at multiple schools encourage both student and community wellness. Funded through Joint Use Agreement grants totaling more than $714,000, these spaces help strengthen connections between local neighborhoods and schools.
Community support is a hallmark of Pointer Nation. The Van Buren Education Foundation has invested more than $1.26 million in grants for field trips, technology, and enrichment programs such as Fifth Grade Camp. PTAs, booster clubs, local businesses, and the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce all contribute year-round support. The district also assists families through its IMPACT Meals initiative, which provides groceries during extended holiday breaks to help address food insecurity.
HOW DOES VAN BUREN HIGH SCHOOL PREPARE STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE, CAREERS, AND LIFE AFTER GRADUATION?
Van Buren High School promotes college and career readiness through a wide range of rigorous academic offerings. Students can take Advanced Placement and concurrent credit classes, earning college hours before graduation through partnerships with regional universities. These opportunities are provided at little or no cost, saving families significant time and tuition expenses.
The district also offers specialized career pathways in high-demand fields such as engineering, health sciences, and technology. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications—including CAD for machinery—and gain practical experience in their chosen pathways. A dedicated career coach helps connect students with internships, apprenticeships, and local employers, ensuring every student graduates prepared for both college and meaningful career opportunities.
UNION CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
The mission of Union Christian Academy of Fort Smith is to provide an outstanding Christian education centered on a Biblical worldview that encourages all students to reach their highest God-given potential.
The only fully accredited Pre-K through twelfth-grade private Christian school in the River Valley, Union offers students the highest academic rigor in a caring, supportive learning environment.
BY THE NUMBERS
Enrollment: 535
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 100%
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Advanced Placement Courses
Concurrent Enrollment via UAFS After-school Childcare
EXTRACURRICULARS
Band, Drama, Athletics
ACCOLADES
Multi-Year Winner of Best Private School in the River Valley Community Choice Award Winner
CONTACT
479.783.7327 | unioneagles.org
4201 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith
HOW DOES YOUR FAITH-BASED MISSION SHAPE THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UCA?
Our mission is the standard by which everything is measured. We’re committed to providing an outstanding Christian education grounded in a Biblical worldview, so we continually ask whether our teaching, curriculum, and opportunities reflect that calling. If something isn’t aligned, academically or spiritually, we adjust. Our mission isn’t a statement on the wall; it keeps us centered on why we exist and who we’re serving.
WHAT SETS YOUR ACADEMIC AND SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS APART?
Biblical integration is woven into every stage of learning. In preschool and elementary, students begin with songs, stories, and Scripture memorization. By middle and high school, the Bible becomes their actual textbook. We teach students how to study Scripture for themselves rather than rely on a curriculum. Students also attend weekly chapel tailored to their age group. Our hope is that foundational truths become lifelong convictions as students grow.
HOW DO YOU CREATE A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY WHERE STUDENTS FEEL SUPPORTED AND KNOWN?
Much of our unity comes from the work of the Holy Spirit, but intentionality plays a major role. We set clear expectations early, even during the New Student Interview, so students and families understand our culture and values. Small class sizes help us genuinely know each student: we learn their names, celebrate their successes, and stay attuned to their lives. That consistent care helps students feel seen, welcomed, and connected.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DEFINE STUDENT LIFE AT UCA?
Our students experience a balance of academic rigor and Christ-centered values. We offer a wide range of athletics—including basketball, volleyball, track, cross country, tennis, baseball, and softball—along with growing arts programs in Band, Worship Arts, Art, and Theater. One of the most defining experiences is Missions Week, when we pause academics to focus on serving others, locally, nationally, or internationally, with this year’s teams headed to Fort Smith, Arlington, and Peru.
HOW DOES UCA PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE NEXT STEP IN EDUCATION OR THEIR FUTURE CALLING?
We aim to equip students for whatever God calls them to pursue: college, a trade, ministry, or missions. Preparation isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s rooted in teaching them to learn, lead, and shine their light wherever they go. Our job is to fill their “toolbox” with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation they’ll need to be successful. In all we do, we strive to Educate Minds, Shepherd Hearts, and Graduate Disciples.
