BACK-T O-SCHOOL GUIDE
Where Great School Years Begin
BACK-T O-SCHOOL GUIDE
Where Great School Years Begin
There’s something special about the beginning of a new school year. Fresh notebooks (my favorite), familiar hallways, eager faces, and the excitement that comes with new teachers, new friendships, and new opportunities all signal a fresh start.
Learning happens in countless ways. It happens in classrooms and libraries, on stage and on the gym floor, through music lessons, afterschool programs, community involvement, and the caring guidance of educators, healthcare providers, coaches, and mentors who invest in our children every day.
This year's Back-to-School Guide celebrates those people and places that help students thrive throughout the River Valley. Whether your family is sending a child to kindergarten, preparing a teenager for high school, or simply embracing another exciting school year, we hope this guide inspires you to discover new opportunities, connect with valuable local resources, and celebrate the unique path every child takes.
Here's to a wonderful school year!
~ Catherine Frederick Publisher/Editor - Do South® Magazine
Founded in 1853, 1st Lutheran School has set the standard for a quality, faith-based education in the River Valley, placing Jesus Christ at the center of learning. 1st Lutheran serves children from two years old through fifth grade. Our school combines outstanding academics with arts and extracurricular activities while ensuring individualized attention to each student. 1st Lutheran makes a faith-based education accessible to a wide range of families with the help of Arkansas’ Education Freedom Account as well as private scholarships. As a Purple Star school, we also see the value of supporting military families and their children as they transition into new communities, reflecting our commitment to fostering a community that feels like family.
1101 Riverfront Dr., Fort Smith
Join us this fall at the Arkansas Center for the Creative Arts!
Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Community School of the Arts offers workshops, classes, and private lessons in music, dance, acting, and more for all ages and is open to Arkansas and Oklahoma students. The Institute for the Creative Arts is a tuition-free public charter creative arts high school. ICA combines a rigorous college preparatory academic program with pre-professional training in music, theatre, dance, and more. ICA is open to all students with an Arkansas residence. Entering our third year, we are now enrolling for the upcoming school year. Visit our website for our course catalog or call to learn more!
63 S. 6th Street, Fort Smith
479.434.8631
bookishfs.com
Think not of the books you’ve bought as a ‘to be read’ pile. Instead, think of your bookcase as a wine cellar. You collect books to be read at the right time, the right place, and the right mood. ~ Luc van Donkersgoed. Whether you're searching for your next great read, a thoughtful gift, or a little something to brighten your day, Bookish is a place where every visit inspires discovery. Browse bestselling books, locally crafted goods, candles, stationery, puzzles, gourmet treats, and unique gifts carefully chosen for every age and occasion. Stop in, explore, and leave with something you'll love, or can't wait to share.
5912 S. 28th St., Fort Smith
479.646.1616
flamefs.com
Flame Gymnastics has been helping children build confidence, strength and lifelong skills since 1985. Family-owned and operated by the Beam family since 1995, Flame offers a positive, encouraging environment where every child can learn, grow and have fun, whether they're taking their very first class or pursuing competitive gymnastics. With more than 300 years of combined coaching experience, Flame's dedicated staff helps students develop coordination, discipline and selfconfidence while progressing at their own pace. River Valley families have voted Flame "Best of the Best" for gymnastics, a reflection of the care and commitment they bring to every athlete. Fall classes are enrolling now for preschool through competitive team programs.
Tumbling
Back-to-School STARTS
WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY
words MIRANDA POTTS, SENIOR DIRECTOR, PEDIATRICS PLUS, ALMA
The start of a new school year brings both excitement and uncertainty. Whether a child is entering kindergarten, returning to a familiar classroom or transitioning into a new learning environment, back-to-school is a time of change. Here are a few tips to help families start this school year off on the right foot.
ESTABLISH ROUTINES BEFORE THE FIRST DAY
For many children, especially those with sensory sensitivities, the shift from summer to structured school days can feel overwhelming. New classrooms, sounds and crowded hallways can create stress. Before the first day, gradually reintroduce school-year routines, such as earlier bedtimes and consistent morning schedules. Ensure your child can open their lunch box, put on a backpack and follow directions – ahead of time. These simple routines can build confidence and reduce frustration.
Visual tools are another way to make the transition more predictable. A calendar or visual schedule, along with a classroom visit before the first day, can help reduce anxiety and build excitement.
PREPARE THE TEAM, NOT JUST THE CHILD
Clear communication helps all children start the year successfully. Consider reaching out to your child's teacher before school begins to share information that may help them better understand your child – interests, strengths, learning preferences and diagnoses, if applicable. A simple "All About Me" sheet can be a helpful way to share likes, dislikes, motivators, communication styles, sensory preferences and calming strategies. Building those connections early helps everyone involved.
CONFIDENCE STARTS WITH CONVERSATION
Children often take their emotional cues from trusted adults. When parents approach the year with confidence and optimism, children are more likely to do the same. Talk
openly about what your child is looking forward to, answer questions honestly and acknowledge their worries.
Reading books about starting school can also help. Favorites like Clifford Goes to Kindergarten, First Day Jitters and Going to a New School can spark meaningful conversations and help children feel more prepared.
EMBRACING NEW ENVIRONMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
Every child is different. Some benefit from extra movement, quiet breaks or familiar routines. Others may need tools such as fidgets or noise-reducing headphones to stay focused and regulated. Discussing those supports with teachers can also create consistency between home and school.
EXPECT AN ADJUSTMENT PERIOD
Even children who are excited about school may come home tired and overwhelmed during the first few weeks. New routines, classrooms and social expectations require tremendous energy. Parents may notice temporary changes in sleep, behavior or emotional regulation as children adjust. These short-term setbacks are often a normal part of transition and usually improve with time.
EVERY CHILD’S JOURNEY IS UNIQUE
Most importantly, remember that every child’s journey looks different. Some will sprint into the school year with excitement, while others may need extra reassurance. Progress doesn’t always happen overnight, but growth happens one step at a time.
About Pediatrics Plus: Miranda Potts is Senior Director at Pediatrics Plus Alma. Pediatrics Plus provides developmental preschool along with occupational, physical, and speech therapy, plus applied behavior analysis (ABA) to help children thrive.
Four Club Locations to Serve You
479.782.7093
fsbgc.org
Are you looking for a safe, engaging, and affordable afterschool program? The Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs is now enrolling kids in grades K - 7 for just $40 per semester. Shuttle service can be added for an additional fee. Meanwhile, for students in grades 8 - 12, the program is completely free, including free shuttle service from all area middle and high schools. Both groups will enjoy homework help, recreation, mentoring, and enrichment activities that build character, health and academic success. With four Club locations and a dedicated team, we support working families and help every child thrive. Register today at fsbgc.org or contact your local unit, spaces are limited! Great Futures Start Here.
3205 Jenny Lind Rd., Fort Smith 479.785.2501 fortsmithschools.org
Fort Smith Public Schools is a destination district built on relationships, collaboration, and a culture of excellence. Serving students from early childhood through high school, our dedicated educators foster academic achievement and personal growth. Students benefit from innovative learning opportunities, including the PEAK Innovation Center, a premier, state-ofthe-art facility offering career-focused programs in healthcare, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. These experiences provide real-world training and connections to local career pathways at no cost. The district also offers the Health Sciences Academy at Darby Middle School and the Computer Science Academy at Chaffin Middle School. Beginning in fall 2027, the Global Innovation Academy at Bonneville Elementary will introduce elementary students to global literacy and STEM through hands-on Innovation Labs.
SAFE AFTERNOONS. REAL CONNECTIONS. BRIGHTER FUTURES.
Grades K-7
Grades 8-12
THE CLUB @ STEPHENS
Tickets for all athletic and activity events are now cashless. See below for your ticket purchase options.
in advance at GoFan.co or through the GoFan app.
Tickets can also be purchased at the gate using our pointof-sale system or by scanning the QR code. We accept all major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
For ticket options visit fortsmithschools.org/tickets
No School
Parent-Teacher (PT) Conferences
3:30 - 6:30 PM
School Begins & Ends
Elementary School: 8:00AM - 3:00PM
Middle School: 8:05AM - 3:30PM
High School: 8:05AM - 3:30PM
Inclement Weather: The District is required to show 30 hours of make-up time in the event of inclement weather or other emergency circumstances. If the Superintendent cancels school, 21 hours of instructional time are built into the calendar that would not need to be made up. If additional time is necessary to be made up, May 24 & 28 may be used or time may be added to the remaining instructional days at the discretion of the Superintendent.
In case of excessive inclement weather, please schedule summer travel after May 31st.
fyzical.com/fort-smith-ar
Fyzical helps families start the school year moving with confidence! Whether it's a student recovering from a sports injury or concussion, a band member dealing with neck or back pain, a teacher on their feet all day, or a parent managing everyday aches and injuries, FYZICAL offers personalized care designed to get you back to doing what you love. Our experienced therapists provide one-on-one treatment for orthopedic injuries, balance and dizziness disorders, TMJ pain, pelvic health and more. With compassionate care, evidencebased treatment and most major insurance accepted, FYZICAL is ready to help your entire family stay healthy, active and prepared for the busy school year ahead.
haashall.org
Haas Hall Academy – Fort Smith is a tuition-free, openenrollment public charter school serving scholars in grades 7–12. Since opening its Fort Smith campus in 2023, the school has quickly earned recognition for academic excellence, receiving an "A" rating from the Arkansas Department of Education and ranking among the state's top-performing schools. Haas Hall Academy is dedicated to preparing students for college and beyond through a rigorous curriculum, small learning environment and a culture that encourages curiosity, leadership and achievement. Every graduate is accepted to college, and students consistently earn outstanding ACT, SAT and Advanced Placement results. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to apply or schedule a visit.
5901 B Riley Park Dr., Fort Smith
479.763.3050 (call or text) premierpediatricsfs.com
Now Accepting New Patients! Premier Pediatrics offers both primary care and urgent care for newborns through teenagers. Whether it’s well child visits, immunizations, or ongoing care, we’re here to support your family at every stage. We’re currently welcoming new patients and would love to care for your family. When your child needs medical attention after hours, Premier Pediatrics Urgent Care is here evenings and weekends. We treat illnesses and minor injuries, and offer on-site X-rays, lab testing, splinting, laceration repair, oxygen, and nebulized therapy. Our urgent care is open to all children, not just current patients. Call or text 479.763.3050 to schedule, or book online anytime at premierpediatricsfs.com.
4201 Windsor Dr., Fort Smith
479.783.7327
unioneagles.org
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. Boasting a low ratio of fifteen students per teacher, Union Christian Academy ensures pupils in grades Pre-K through twelve are served according to their unique learning needs. The school balances a rigorous academic curriculum with a slate of activities and athletics to develop teamwork, leadership, and time management, creating bonds between children and their school.
Van Buren School District
+ School Supply Lists
School supply lists are available at www.VBSD.us.
+ School Meals
For 2026-2027, families must apply to qualify for free or reduced price lunch. Students who do not qualify will be required to pay regular price for lunch.
Apply online today!
VBSD will provide free breakfast to all students.
+ Open House Dates
Van Buren High School & Freshman Academy
August 3
Elementary Schools
August 4
Middle Schools
August 6
Visit District website for times & details.
2026 - 2027 Calendar
August 12 • First Day of School
September 7 • No school
October 13 & 15
Parent Conferences 3:30pm – 6:30pm
October 16 – 19 • Fall Break
November 23 – 27 • anksgiving Break
December 21 – January 1 • Winter Break
January 4 • No School - Teacher Work Day
January 5 • Second Semester Begins
January 18 • No School
February 12 & 15 • No School
March 16 & 18
Parent Conferences 3:30pm – 6:30pm
March 19 • No School
March 22 – 26 • Spring Break
April 16 • No School
May 19 • st Day of School
Enroll in academy classes at waballet org Class ages range from two years old to adult
UPCOMING
Open Auditions for the 41st Annual Nutcracker are Saturday, September 26, 2026 Roles available for girls, boys, and adults
Our focus
We value excellence in dance educ ation, a noncompetitive, suppor tive training environment , focused instruction in dance fundamentals, and provide meaningful per formance oppor tunities
waballet org Scholarships available!
479-785-0152
4701 Grand Avenue Fort Smith, AR 72904
2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren 479.474.7942
vbsd.us
4701 Grand Ave., Fort Smith 479.785.0152 waballet.org
The award-winning Van Buren School District is recognized as a leader in academics, athletics, and arts. Our highly qualified staff seek to give every child access to unique opportunities inside the classroom and beyond. VBSD offers STEM at all grade levels, hands-on agricultural experiences, and course options that enable students to earn college credit and industry certifications before graduating. These give students an academic edge and help families save thousands of dollars in tuition. VBSD’s River Valley Virtual Academy also offers participants flexible learning options. Pointer Nation has captured multiple regional and state championship titles across its robust arts and sports programs. Follow @VBSDPointers online or visit our website to learn more about enrollment!
Western Arkansas Ballet offers classes in ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, tap, and hip-hop for dancers ages two through adult. WAB’s history of providing quality dance education, training, and performance opportunities in a non-competitive environment focusing on performing arts formation through fundamental dance classes spans over four decades. The 2026-2027 season performances include the 41st Annual The Nutcracker on December 19 & 20, 2026 and the spring ballet Alice in Wonderland on April 3 & 4, 2027. Open auditions for both productions take place on September 26, 2026 at the WAB studios with roles available for girls, boys, and adults. Visit www.waballet.org or call 479-785-0152 for more information.
Lessons that Last LIFE SKILLS EVERY CHILD NEEDS
Good grades and perfect attendance matter, but educators know lifelong success also depends on curiosity, confidence, resilience, communication, and kindness—the qualities that help children learn, build relationships, and face challenges.
RESILIENCE
CURIOSITY
Great learners never stop asking 'why.' Instead of always giving answers, ask questions back. 'What do you think?' or 'How could we find out?' Curiosity fuels lifelong learning.
Action: Ask your child one question this week that doesn't have a right or wrong answer, then explore the answer together.
COMMUNICATION
Listening is just as important as speaking.
Children who learn to express ideas, ask questions, and truly listen build stronger relationships and become better problem-solvers.
Action: At dinner or on the drive home from school, let each family member share one highlight and one challenge from their day without interruption.
Not every game is won. Not every test goes well. Not every friendship lasts. Resilience is the ability to recover, learn and move forward.
Action: After a challenging game, performance, test or difficult day at school, ask, ‘What's one thing you learned today?’
CONFIDENCE
Confidence grows from doing hard things. Every challenge attempted, struggled through and eventually mastered reminds them they're capable of more than they imagined.
Action: Praise effort, persistence and improvement, not just the outcome.
KINDNESS
Small moments of kindness often leave a greater impression than any test score.
Action: Look for one opportunity this week to serve others as a family.
