History of Raymond F. Orr Elementary

  • Historical Orr Photo

    Orr Elementary was established in 1963 after the school board identified the need to alleviate the overcrowding at FSPS elementary schools. This expansion was a significant step for the Fort Smith Public School District, adding crucial classroom space and reinforcing its dedication to education. Named in honor of Raymond F. Orr, a respected former School Board President and local business owner, the school quickly became a cornerstone of the community. Dedicated to providing quality education, Orr Elementary has been a vital institution in Fort Smith, known for its academic excellence and community involvement. The school and its staff have served generations of students and their families, making a lasting impact on countless lives. 

     

     

     

     

    Major Milestones in Orr History

    • 1962: The Fort Smith School Board decided to build a new elementary school to alleviate overcrowding at other FSPS elementary schools - especially Beard and Cavanaugh. In July, the Board purchased land on Phoenix Street, and by December, the construction contract was awarded to Texarkana Construction Company

    • August 19, 1963: The Board unanimously approved the name Raymond F. Orr Elementary in honor of the late Raymond F. Orr. They also announced that the new school would be ready at the beginning of the 1963-64 school year.

    • September 3, 1963: Orr Elementary officially opened its doors with an initial enrollment of 258 students. The staff included nine faculty members, a secretary, a custodian, and three cafeteria workers. Miss Mary Thompson, the principal, also served at Fairview Elementary.

    • 1969-1970: Implementation of a new curriculum focusing on world events and hands-on activities.

    • 1993: The school underwent a major expansion, resulting in 24 total classrooms and a media center capable of housing over 500 books and resource materials.

    • 1996: Orr Elementary was recognized with the Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award, a prestigious national accolade.

    • 2021: The building was renovated to add a secure vestibule, improving safety for students and staff.

    • 2024: The school became the first in Arkansas to earn High-Reliability School (HRS) Level 4 certification, showcasing the staff's dedication to creating a culture of excellence. 

    kids at Orr in 90s

    Who was Raymond F. Orr?

    raymond orrRaymond F. Orr, a prominent Fort Smith figure, was born and raised in the area. He was well-educated and grew to be a successful businessman and community leader. He owned the Fort Smith Smelter, a major employer for many local residents. He served as president of the Fort Smith School Board, where he played a crucial role in shaping educational policies and supporting local schools. Orr's philanthropic efforts and dedication to improving education had a profound impact on the community, making him highly deserving of having Orr Elementary named in his honor. His legacy continues to stand as a testament to his commitment to education and community service.

     

     

     

    Notable People in Orr History

    • Raymond F. Orr: The school's namesake, whose contributions to education and local business had a lasting impact on the Fort Smith community.

    • Miss Mary Thompson: The first principal of Orr Elementary, who also served as principal at Fairview Elementary.

    • Leo Bartlett: Principal who led Orr Elementary for over fifteen years and played a key role in introducing early technological advancements.

    • Barbara Kell: Long-serving principal known for her dedication to educational excellence and active community engagement.

    • Mrs. John T. Fank: The inaugural PTA President, instrumental in establishing a supportive and effective PTA that contributed significantly to the school's early success.

    Impact and History of the Orr PTA

    Since its inception in the school's first year, The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Orr Elementary has played a crucial role in the school's development through various projects and fundraisers. Early achievements include purchasing dictionaries, a refrigerator for the teachers' lounge, paving play areas, and helping establish a media center. The PTA’s influence extended beyond the school, highlighted by their notable invitation to President Richard Nixon to their annual pancake breakfast during his visit to Fayetteville—a gesture that gained national attention despite his formal decline. Their ongoing support has been essential in enhancing the educational environment and fostering community spirit.

    Discover Our History

    Explore the rich history of Orr Elementary. Here, you'll find documents, stories, and resources that highlight key milestones and achievements of our school. Dive into the past to see how Orr Elementary evolved and has made a lasting impact on the community.

     

    Contribute to Our History

    We invite you to share any resources, stories, or photos you may have about Orr Elementary School. Your contributions help preserve the rich history and legacy of our school.

    Please contact the District Communications Department. 

    Updated 2024-08-28