BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE - AUGUST 2023

BACK TO SCHOOL

Whether your student is entering school for the first time, or headed off to college, our team of Do South® experts is here to help. In our annual Back to School Guide, you’ll discover after-school activities, financial advice, expert health care, mental wellness, trendy apparel, back-to-school accessories, and local back-to-school events for kids and teachers returning to the classroom.

There are also several educational choices for you to consider, from public and charter schools to postgraduate studies. Read what our experts have to say and ways to secure a bright future for the children who hold your heart!

BACK TO SCHOOL

Whether your student is entering school for the first time, or headed off to college, our team of Do South® experts is here to help. In our annual Back to School Guide, you’ll discover after-school activities, financial advice, expert health care, mental wellness, trendy apparel, back-to-school accessories, and local back-to-school events for kids and teachers returning to the classroom.

There are also several educational choices for you to consider, from public and charter schools to postgraduate studies. Read what our experts have to say and ways to secure a bright future for the children who hold your heart!

7000 Chad Colley Boulevard Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.308.2243

achehealth.edu

Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) is a private, not-for-profit institution located on 500+ acres in Fort Smith. ACHE is fulfilling its mission of educating future healthcare professionals through: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM), Master of Science in Biomedicine (MSB), Master of Public Health (MPH), School of Physical Therapy (ACHE PT), and School of Occupational Therapy (ACHE OT). Off campus, ACHE is committed to making a difference in the community. The ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RI) celebrated the opening of the first floor of the 317,000-square-foot facility to be used for biomedical research and targeted health and wellness initiatives. ACHE is a private institution dedicated solely to healthcare and wellness.

415 Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.474.7767

artsonmainvb.com

Arts On Main offers enriching art experiences year round. Our programs for ages 3-15 include afterschool and homeschool art education classes, STEAM workshops, Saturday art classes, pottery classes, culinary experiences, a children’s theatre program, birthday art parties, and more! Adults can indulge their creative side through classes in art, pottery, ceramics, and culinary. Enjoy art exhibitions, guided gallery tours and artist talks, or adventure with us on one of our art and culture field trips. We are excited to connect you to all the arts activities we offer. For details, visit artsonmainvb.com or call 479-474-7767. Stay up to date with classes, events, and more by subscribing to our newsletter!

Many area locations to serve you

866.952.9523

arvest.com

Whether you are shopping online or taking advantage of a department store sale, it is important to keep your financial information secure when doing back-to-school shopping. Add an extra layer of security that safeguards your bank account from potential compromise by using your credit card for larger purchases and reserving your debit card for smaller purchases in lieu of cash. Another helpful tool to reduce fraud is to utilize purchase alerts to monitor your accounts, wherever you are. Securing your financial information and conveniently tracking transactions will help you confidently complete your back-to-school shopping. Arvest Visa® Card offers real-time purchase alerts and peace of mind with Visa’s Zero Liability Policy. Visit arvest.com/creditcards to learn more.

409 Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas

479.410.4756

Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Camille & Co. is a friendly boutique located on Main Street in downtown Van Buren, Arkansas. We invite you to come in and experience our friendliness and exceptional products! Inside our store you’ll find fun gifts, home accessories and décor, paper boutique items, cards and so much more. Our customers love our personalized apparel and gift items. Shop Camille & Co. for all your back-to-school essentials, like our monogrammed backpacks and accessories. Looking for spirit tees and mascot apparel? We’ve got you covered. Come see us today!

201 North 19th Street / 2901 Rogers Avenue Fort Smith, Arkansas

csafortsmith.org

479.434.2020

The Institute for the Creative Arts is the first Performing & Visual Arts High School in the state of Arkansas. The school opens in August 2024 at the new CSA facility on Riverfront Drive in Fort Smith. The Institute is for students entering grades 9-12, and is an all-day school with core academic offerings along with an intensive arts curriculum. Programs in music, theatre, dance, visual art, cinema, culinary, and creative writing will be offered. Students will prepare for a college arts program and beyond as they are immersed in an arts curriculum led by professional teaching artists. Early registration for this special school begins this October. Visit csafortsmith.org or call 479-434-2020 to find out more!

1500 Dodson Avenue, Suite 260-A, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.709.7337

baptist-health.com

Whether your children need newborn care, back-to-school vaccinations, or physicals, Baptist Health Pediatric Clinic located at 1500 Dodson Avenue, Suite 260-A, in Fort Smith has you covered. Dr. Raelene Mapes and her team also treat illnesses and injuries for children of all ages. For Dr. Mapes, the most rewarding part of her career is getting the opportunity to watch her patients grow up. By having a long-term history with a pediatrician, you’ll get insight into your children’s development and will be able to better detect emerging problems, such as changes in academic or emotional status. For more about Dr. Mapes and the services she provides, call 479-709-7337 or visit Baptist-Health.com.

200 North 15th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.782.5068

fsfumc.org

First United Methodist Church is a historic congregation in downtown Fort Smith. We are passionate about faith, family, friendships and finding our calling. Through Jesus Christ, we offer help, healing, and hope. We believe in the grace of God that accepts us as we are and the love of God that won't leave us as we are. We want to encourage you on your spiritual journey, no matter where on that journey you find yourself. We offer ministries for children, youth, families, and seniors. Check us out online or in person. We'd love to be your church home!

3205 Jenny Lind Rd, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.785.2501

fortsmithschools.org

The Fort Smith Public Schools School-Based Health Center (SBHC) invites the Fort Smith community to join area businesses and organizations in celebrating the eight dimensions of wellness. Learn about volunteer opportunities and local resources from area agencies and utilize the free health screenings and vaccines for qualifying students. The Celebration for Community Connections is on September 16, 2023, from 10:00 AM -1:00 PM at the Darby Middle School Campus, 616 North 14th Street. The SBHC partners with Mercy and The Guidance Center to bring physical and mental wellness to staff, students, and family members in the home. Learn more at fortsmithschools.org.

5912 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.646.1616

flamefs.com

Founded in 1985, Flame has been owned and operated by the Beam family since 1995. Emphasis is on maintaining a fun and supportive atmosphere for all students regardless of age or skill level. Flame’s professional staff have over 300 years of combined gymnastics teaching experience and are recognized for producing gymnasts competitive on a state and regional level through the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Program. Flame has been voted “Best of the Best” for gymnastics in the River Valley for six straight years. Classes in gymnastics and tumbling are offered year round and swim lessons for ages 9 months through 12 years are offered during the months of June and July. Contact us today!

622 North 7th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.431.8695

fsfuture.org

Future School of Fort Smith (Future School) envisions a future where each student graduates equipped with the tools to succeed and enthusiastic about their future due to their time spent at the school. We prioritize a learning environment that is open, inclusive, relationship-centered, and focused on student success. With a small advisor-to-student ratio, our educator-mentors guide students through the process of identifying interests, connecting with potential internships, and envisioning their plans upon graduation. Future School strives to earn its reputation as an innovative and impactful leader in education in Arkansas through its combination of personalized learning plans, internship network, concurrent college credit program, and robust partnerships with area businesses and the Fort Smith community.

Elementary-Age Children

Encourage open communication. Have conversations about what your kids see and do online and talk with them about potential dangers. Avoid lecturing in favor of an open exchange of information.

M ake their inherent interest in privacy work in your favor . Kids in this age group, particularly toward the middle school years, understand the concept of privacy and value it immensely. Use that context to help them understand what goes online is there to stay. Talk about what kinds of information should always be kept private, including identifying details like addresses and social security numbers.

Stay on alert. Not all apps are completely safe (even the ones you can access from trusted stores) and not all filters are foolproof. Keep close tabs on what your kids are downloading by reading comments and reviews, and regularly monitoring what kind of content they see.

PROTECTING CHILDREN IN A DIGITAL AGE

Keeping a watchful eye on your kids requires an increasing level of tech savvy many parents find intimidating. Not only are your kids vulnerable to bad actors online, but your family’s personal information could be at risk, as well.

Learn how to protect your children and family in this digital age with these tips:

Middle School and High School Kids

Continue talking about privacy. You can never have too many conversations about privacy. What seems like harmless sharing on social media can be quite revealing. For example, frequent posts about visits to a favorite store or restaurant can allow a predator to begin tracking behavior patterns that make your child a target. It’s also important for kids to understand how their privacy settings work. For example, settings that allow exposure to friends of friends make their visibility to strangers much broader than they may realize.

Help manage their online reputation. Behaviors that once resulted in a day or two of hallway chatter can now live forever. Documenting mischief online is only fun until it spills over into real life, and everyone sees those mistakes in full color – including prospective future employers.

Be clear about your position on bullying. From the safe distance of a screen, it’s easier for kids (and adults) to say things they’d never say in person. Teach your kids to handle problems constructively offline and avoid engaging in attacks on others through social media, email and other platforms.

College Students

Reinforce the risks . Once they’re on their own, kids may feel more liberated to make their own choices online. However, college students are easy prey for identity theft and worse. Remind them what’s at stake if they fail to protect their identity and private information, like where they live and what they do on a regular basis.

Teach smart practices. With all the independence that comes with college life, this is an ideal time for your student to take personal responsibility for his or her online security, including learning about virus protection, updating software, avoiding scams and backing up data.

WORDS Family Features IMAGE courtesy Getty Images

5004 South U Street, Suite 203-B

Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.883.2223

healingtreetherapy.com

Strong. Wise. Confident. These are just a few of the qualities we desire for our daughters. At Healing Tree Women’s Counseling Center, we support tween and teen girls’ emotional development, so they learn healthy ways of interacting with family, friends, and peers. We help heal any hurts and work to repair misguided beliefs such as, “I have to be perfect to be accepted.” Our caring therapists teach healthy ways to navigate this important time, helping to make sense of this challenging, confusing, and often overwhelming phase of life. Our caring and skilled therapists are here to support and nurture your family while leaving the chaos behind.

4300 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.420.4008

hummingbird-boutique-fort-smith.myshopify.com

Hummingbird is the perfect place for back-to-school shopping! We offer unique home décor, gifts, and clothing for all ages! Inside you will find spirit wear, stylish apparel, dorm essentials, cute décor, candles, journals, books, religious items, inspirational gifts, jewelry, and much more! We also have many options for that perfect teacher gift and even offer complimentary gift wrapping. Our website is well stocked with some of our favorite items, but the shop is full of even more fabulous finds! We recently returned from market — so you’re sure to find something for everyone! Locally owned and operated, we can’t wait for you to enjoy our personalized service and delightful shopping experience.

3112 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.649.3542

kswoftherivervalley.com

Our mission is to provide the public with a safe, positive facility to grow stronger and learn to succeed in all walks of life through the practice of traditional Korean martial arts. Taught in a group environment, we pride ourselves in providing individual attention from highly qualified instructors, making us the premier academy for martial arts training in the Fort Smith River Valley and other surrounding areas including Oklahoma. At Kuk Sool Won of the River Valley, you and your family can learn a unique system of self-defense, increase your physical fitness, and enjoy an activity that promotes longevity, discipline, and personal development. Voted Best of the Best 5 Years running, call us today!

311 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.1444

lpgkids.com

Learn, Play, Grow Children’s Therapy Services is an outpatient pediatric therapy provider who specializes in working with children of all ages and abilities. We offer physical, occupational, and speech therapy services in a relaxed, patient-focused, and family-centered setting. We offer both ongoing and short-term therapy programs provided by therapists who have a passion for working with children. We accept most forms of insurance and payment, including Arkansas Medicaid, Oklahoma SoonerCare, TRICARE, BCBS, United Healthcare, and private pay. We also host monthly support groups for parents of children with spina bifida and Down syndrome. We are all about the kids and our community, and we are here to help you! Call to schedule your appointment today!

1508 South Greenwood Avenue

Fort

Smith, Arkansas

479.434.2700

learningrx.com/river-valley

Are you concerned about the upcoming school year? Learning Rx is a unique brain training program that gets to the root of learning struggles and can help your child succeed! We are different from tutoring as we build brain skills that will help make learning better, faster, and easier! Help your child make the most of their education by increasing their cognitive skills. We at Learning Rx are here to join you in that journey! Our center specializes in issues related to ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning concerns. Mention this ad for 50% off a cognitive skills assessment which includes a follow-up consultation with our director Dr. Janissa Jackson.

344 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Arkansas

479.632.4600 / almareferrals@pediatricsplus.com

2805 Alma Highway, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.471.9600 /

vanburenreferrals@pediatricsplus.com

Pediatrics Plus is NOW ENROLLING for PRESCHOOL students at both our Alma and Van Buren locations. To enroll your child today, please contact us by using the location information above. Our preschool offers therapy services throughout the day including applied behavior analysis, occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Learn more about how we can serve your family and help your child achieve their goals at PediatricsPlus.com.

1036 Highway 64 East, Alma, Arkansas 479.632.3813

steppingstonearkansas.com

Help. Hope. Support. Will your child be ready for public school? At Stepping Stone, each child is challenged by our professional team in a fun, stimulating, and structured environment. Children with developmental delays, cerebral palsy, seizure disorders, autism or who are medically fragile participate in pre-academics, language communication skills, motor development and socialization. Services include Free Developmental Screenings, Therapeutic Preschool, Early Interventions, ABA / Applied Behavioral Analysis, Individualized Care Plans, Transportation, Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapies and an array of Nursing Services. The earlier you recognize your child’s special needs and request help, the better the possibilities to improve or overcome developmental challenges. Call for your free developmental assessment and a partner in your child’s potential.

6808 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.434.3571

truegritrunningco.com

Hit the ground running this school year with a new pair of shoes from True Grit Running Company! We sell an assortment of colors and models, so that you can find the right mix of design and comfort perfect for your individual style and needs. Want something that feels like a cloud? Try the Hoka Clifton! Looking for a little extra stability? The Hoka Arahi might be the one for you. Stop by our store at 6808 Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith and receive a full gait analysis and foot scan, so that our team can help pull the best options for you this school year! Don’t have time to stop by the store? Order on our website at truegritrunningco.com.

4201 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.783.7327 unioneagles.org

Enroll at Union Christian Academy, the only award-winning Pre-K through 12th grade private Christian school in the River Valley. Experience the advantage of small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Discover affordable Christian education without compromising quality. Our commitment to academic excellence and faith-based learning sets us apart. With a focus on character development, we provide a nurturing environment that fosters spiritual growth and academic achievement. Don't miss the opportunity to join our thriving community of families who value exceptional education rooted in Christian values. Secure your child's future at Union Christian Academy, where affordable excellence meets the River Valley's finest Christian education.

2101 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.3021

udoujorthodontics.com

Udouj Orthodontics has provided orthodontic excellence in a friendly and compassionate atmosphere since 1972! Our staff takes the time to get to know each patient and makes appointments fun! Utilizing the latest technological advances to ensure you receive the most effective care possible, we offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children, teens and adults, including early interceptive and growth modification treatment, as well as treatment with fixed braces. From traditional metal brackets and wires to toothcolored appliances, we design your orthodontic treatment to suit your lifestyle and preferences, and also offer ceramic braces and clear aligners. Schedule your appointment today and let us help you create a beautiful, healthy smile!

2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.474.7942

vbsd.us

The Van Buren School District is thrilled to welcome back its students and staff for the 2023-2024 school year! We look forward to an exciting new year and the opportunity to invest in your child. Our District offers STEM at every grade level, access to innovative agriculture programs, and online learning through our own River Valley Virtual Academy. VBSD also has a wealth of AP and concurrent credit classes and partners with universities to help students earn certifications and associate degrees before graduating. The commitment to excellence extends to extracurriculars, with recent state champion titles for band, soccer, wrestling, baseball, and other programs. Follow @VBSDPointers online to learn more!

#PointerPride

4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.785.0152

waballet.org

Western Arkansas Ballet Academy offers classes in ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, tap, and hip hop for ages three through adult. Committed to creating a community dedicated to the fine arts through quality dance education, training, and performance, we are proud to provide three performance opportunities to local dancers each season. The 2023-2024 season includes the 38th Annual production of The Nutcracker December 16 & 17, 2023 at ArcBest Performing Arts Center in downtown Fort Smith. Academy classes begin September 5 and registration is now open! Auditions for dancers ages 6 and up with 2+ years of experience are September 16 for roles in The Nutcracker and Wizard of Oz. Roles available for girls, boys, and adults! Learn more at waballet.org.

DO SOUTH MAGAZINE BACK TO SCHOOL ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Arts On Main

415 Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.474.7767

artsonmainvb.com

Community School of the Arts

201 North 19th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 2901 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, Arkansas

csafortsmith.org

479.434.2020

Flame Gymnastics

5912 South 28th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.646.1616

flamefs.com

Kuk Sool Won

3112 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.649.3542

kswoftherivervalley.com

Western Arkansas Ballet

4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.785.0152

waballet.org

DENTAL CARE

Udouj Orthodontics

2101 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.3021

udoujorthodontics.com

EDUCATION

Arkansas Colleges of Health Education

7000 Chad Colley, Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.308.2243

achehealth.edu

Fort Smith Public Schools

3205 Jenny Lind, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.785.2501

fortsmithschools.org

Future School Fort Smith

622 North 7th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.431.8695

fsfuture.org

Learning RX

1508 South Greenwood, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.434.2700

learningrx.com/river-valley

Stepping Stone

1036 Highway 64 East, Alma, Arkansas 479.632.3813

steppingstonearkansas.com

Union Christian Academy

4201 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.783.7327

unioneagles.org

Van Buren School District

2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.474.7942

vbsd.us

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Arvest Bank

Many area locations to serve you 866.952.9523

arvest.com

HEALTHCARE & THERAPY SERVICES

Baptist Health Fort Smith – Van Buren

1500 Dodson Ave., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.709.7337

baptist-health.com

Healing Tree Women’s Counseling

5004 South U St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.883.2223

healingtreetherapy.com

Learn Play Grow

311 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.1444

lpgkids.com

Learning RX

1508 South Greenwood

Fort Smith, Arkansas

479.434.2700

learningrx.com/river-valley

Pediatrics Plus

344 Fayetteville Ave., Alma, Arkansas 479.632.4600

2805 Alma Highway, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.471.9600

Stepping Stone

1036 Highway 64 East, Alma, Arkansas 479.632.3813

steppingstonearkansas.com

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

First United Methodist Church

200 North 15th St., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.5068

fsfumc.org

SHOPPING

Camille & Co.

409 Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.410.4756

Find them on Facebook and Instagram

Hummingbird Boutique

4300 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.420.4008

hummingbird-boutique-fort-smith

True Grit Running Co.

6808 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.434.3571

truegritrunningco.com