As we near the midpoint of the school year and with the holiday season upon us, I'd like to take this time to just say thank you.  Thank you to all the individuals and business groups throughout the Fort Smith region that find it in their hearts to give a little extra, spend a little more time each day with the partnerships you've created through the years! 

As you, the businesses, take the time to share your time, talent and expertise, we can hope that these children are better prepared to enter a working world that is forever changing, forever growing, forever flourishing. Please know that your time with these partnerships does mean something. The bond you create means that young minds are forever changed by your interest in their daily school routine. What you are doing continues to create that climate of involvement and interaction that may stay with them as they become engaged young men and women of this community, as they become our leaders of tomorrow.

-Sherry 

Jerry Walrod understands how small things can make a big difference. Located at 2113 Midland Avenue, Walrod's Hardware has been a Partner in Education with Trusty Elementary since 1993.  For nearly 20 years, the store has supported Trusty by providing necessary supplies that help ensure students and teacher success. 

Throughout the year, Mr. Walrod donates nails, screws and even paint rollers to help teachers and custodians with school projects. He often sends packing tape for the staff to use when boxing up boxes for the shredder or storage. When the school hosts special activities, Mr. Walrod often contributes chips or other goodies. (Walrod's also generously donates supplies to use as door prizes for the Partners in Education Back to School event. The hardware and camping goods are always crowd favorites.) 

Principal Sarah Lavey recalls, in her first year as Trusty Principal, her first encounter with the school's longtime partner. "I went to see Mr. Walrod to introduce myself to him.  He asked me if I needed anything and I told him I could not find a flashlight and might have use of one one day," said Lavey. "He made me a tool box which contained a flashlight, pliers, nails, screws, hammer, screwdrivers, and duct tape. I still have the box today and my custodian uses it on a weekly basis." Walrod's keeps the Trusty supply closet replenished. 

Rick Foti, former Trusty Principal and current Executive Director of the Community Services Clearinghouse, also recalls Walrod's Hardware as an incredible supporter of the school.  "In my 14 years at Trusty, Mr. Walrod was a great and quiet Partner in Education with us," said Foti. "Many times, Jerry just dropped by to bring us something we could use from his store or that he had found in a yard sale. Other times we would need some small item from his store, and he never let us pay for anything. When we had an event where prizes were needed for parents, he always had clever donations, or his famous Four-in-One Screwdrivers." Foti added, "Our partnership with Walrod's was not built on large monetary or product donations, but rather on a shared love for our children and neighborhood, and a willingness to do whatever Jerry Walrod could do." 

Walrod's Hardware is an excellent example of how small, local businesses can have a tremendous impact in schools and communities. Mr. Walrod's commitment to Trusty Elementary is truly admirable and appreciated by all!

Notice anything different? If you said logo, well you are both observant and correct. After more than 20 years, Partners in Education has adopted a new logo to reflect its continued commitment to supporting our schools through community-based partnerships.

Designed by 2011 Northside graduate, Ngoc Ngyuen, the logo emphasizes the role that partners play in helping students reach their potential. Ngyuen was recognized as the 2011 WATC Graphic Design Student of the Year.

• The First Tee of Fort Smith is sponsoring a Poinsettia fundraiser this holiday season. Read this flyer for more information. 

• The Southside High School Office Education Cooperative (OEC) program currently has two students who are seeking employment. If you are looking for a hard-working, dependable part-time employee, and would like to partner with the Southside OEC, please contact Heather Baumgartner at hbaumgar@fortsmithschools.org or 648-8201 x 236.