The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) of the Arkansas Department of Education has released the list of GEM Schools in Arkansas based on the 2025-26 school year. This new recognition highlights schools that have shown strong academic achievement, academic growth, and sustained improvement. The recognition also includes cash awards that are based on the school’s enrollment. FPS schools received a total of $628,412.78 in GEM Schools awards.
The FPS schools that were named 2025-26 GEM Schools, the number of designations they received, and and the cash amount they will receive are:
School | Designations | Amount Received |
Fayetteville High School | 6 | $220,948.26 |
Fayetteville Virtual Academy | 5 | $13,551.23 |
Happy Hollow Elementary | 3 | $22,248.27 |
Holcomb Elementary | 7 | $100,859.60 |
Leverett Elementary | 2 | $9,911.21 |
McNair Middle School | 4 | $58,312.49 |
Root Elementary School | 4 | $40,139.65 |
Vandergriff Elementary School | 4 | $91,668.04 |
Woodland Jr. High | 5 | $70,774.03 |
Superintendent Dr. John Mulford noted that the recognitions and awards are well deserved. “The dedicated work by these teachers and their students is reflected in their strong performances on the ATLAS testing. Holcomb Elementary and Vandergriff Elementary deserve special recognition for placing in the top 5% in Arkansas in both achievement of all students and growth of all students.”
To explore full program details, visit the official DESE Arkansas Gem School Recognition Program Webpage.