Hundreds of Fort Smith students will head back to class at new schools on Wednesday, Aug. 12, following the consolidation of two elementary schools.
Consolidation Details
Approximately 250 students who live near Spradling Elementary School will attend Sutton Elementary School, about a mile away. About 150 students who would normally attend Carnall Elementary School are now enrolled at Beard and Cavanaugh elementary schools.
Fort Smith Public Schools calls the consolidation process “right-sizing.” Superintendent Martin Mahan said, “Some of our buildings had open spaces. They had whole wings of the building that were vacated. We’re trying to utilize that space to be more efficient fiscally, also instructionally, to have more teachers able to collaborate with each other about what’s best for our students.”
The district will provide transportation to elementary students who need it. Carnall Elementary School will continue to play a role in district operations by preparing food for about 2,000 students each day.
Adjustments and Preparations
Mahan is asking families and community members for patience as students and staff adjust to the changes. “We’ll give kids more time. We’ll show grace as they learn new procedures. And we ask our parents and community to show some grace, too,” Mahan said. “Please watch out for our kids. Safety is a top priority.”
Drop-off and pickup areas are typically congested during the first few days of school. The district has made adjustments at Sutton Elementary School to help improve the process.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
