Greenwood Education Foundation Hall of Honor 2023 Inductee:
Hortense Stafford was a beloved elementary teacher in the Greenwood school district for 33 years. She began her teaching career in Hackett before moving to Greenwood Elementary in 1953 and retired in 1986. While she taught second and sixth grades during her career, she is best remembered for her many years as a fourth-grade teacher. Finding her passion with that age group, her students remember her as an outstanding teacher.
She was born Hortense Carroll on her family’s farm near Charleston in August 1921 to Herman and Thelma Carroll. While she speaks fondly of her childhood, it was during an era when there were no cars, indoor plumbing, air conditioning, appliances or modern healthcare. Though not an easy life, her childhood shaped her character and no doubt contributed to her success with students from all walks of life.
After graduating from Charleston High School, she attended ASTC (now UCA) for two years and later completed her degree by attending summer school in Conway over a five-year period.
She became Hortense Stafford when she married Willard Stafford in 1941. He was a former coal miner, as many were at that time, but is best remembered as the owner/operator of Greenwood’s dry cleaners and laundry. Willard was also the Fire Chief and was active in many of Greenwood’s activities. Hortense and Willard had two sons, Will “Sonny” and Joe, who are both now retired. She has four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Hortense loved to travel so once she retired, she traveled extensively throughout the U.S. as well as to many countries around the world and she loves to talk about her various trips.
She continues to be an avid reader and has literally read hundreds and hundreds of books in her lifetime including many of the classics. If she really likes a book, she may read it several times. Years ago, she taught herself to “speed read” so keeping her in books has been a challenge.
Her fourth-grade students loved the way she would arrange their chairs in a semi-circle around her following recess so that she could read to them. She said it had a calming effect after they had just come in from the playground and her students really enjoyed their quiet time.
Her many years living in Greenwood and her career as an elementary teacher are very special to her and refers to that time period as “the best years of my life”. She cherishes the memories of her association with her many students as well as her fellow teachers and the school administration.
She currently resides at Methodist Village Senior Living in Fort Smith and recently celebrated birthday number 102. For her educational and character influence on hundreds of children in her educational career the Greenwood Education Foundation is proud to add Mrs. Hortense Stafford to their Hall of Honor Class of 2023.
Just a reminder 🙂🙂 Parent-Teacher conferences are on Thursday.
No school on Friday and Monday
Enjoy the Fall Break🍁🍂🍂🍁
Greenwood Education Foundation 2023 Hall of Honor Inductee:
Stan Escalante, a humble and low-key individual, has dedicated his life to the service of others, driven by a deep-seated belief in the principles of justice, mercy, and humility. His guiding verse, Micah 6:8, has been the compass directing his path: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Stan's journey unfolds as a tale of love, commitment, and unwavering dedication to the community he holds dear.
Born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Stan's formative years were spent in the Greenwood School District, leaving an indelible mark on his character. Following a brief departure due to his father's pastoral duties, Stan returned to Greenwood after 35 years, fulfilling a promise he made to himself. His life took a momentous turn at Oklahoma State University, where he not only pursued a degree in Wildlife Ecology but also found his lifelong companion, Cindie Halford. Their enduring marriage of 44 years has been a testament to love and shared values.
Stan and Cindie are proud parents to two daughters, Brandi and Lyndi, both of whom have carved their paths in diverse professions and locations. The Escalante family extends across the United States, with nine grandchildren adding a new dimension to their rich tapestry of life.
Stan's career commenced in forestry in southern Arkansas, but it was his innate ability to counsel and support others that became increasingly evident. A Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Henderson State University marked a pivotal transition, leading Stan to direct a Math and Science Upward Bound program for 16 years. His influence extended beyond the confines of Arkansas, involving collaborations at the national level.
Stan's commitment to education garnered recognition from the Arkansas Association of Assistance Programs, honoring him for his substantial contributions. His return to Greenwood in 2007 heralded a new chapter, where his impact resonated deeply within the school district.
In Greenwood, Stan's role transcended conventional expectations. As a school-based mental health therapist, he provided crucial emotional support to countless students. His involvement with the juvenile court, special education initiatives, and the alternative learning education classroom underscored his dedication to inclusivity and support for all students.
The creation of the Shoe Fund, assisting up to 150 students annually, became one of Stan's cherished initiatives. Beyond professional duties, Stan volunteered as a Life Coach for the Greenwood Bulldog football team for 15 seasons, serving as counselor and chaplain for numerous young men. His commitment to athletes went far beyond the field, extending to personal challenges and triumphs.
Stan's open-door policy, a 24/7 commitment to players and coaches, exemplified his selflessness. Players facing diverse life issues found solace in his guidance, showcasing a breadth of challenges ranging from personal struggles to family crises. Stan and Cindie even opened their home to players facing difficult family situations, reflecting their unwavering support.
In addition to his school-based role, Stan provided private counseling at The Forging Place Counseling Center in Greenwood for five years. His efforts facilitated a safe haven for individuals from all walks of life, showcasing the positive impact of counseling, particularly among men.
The culmination of Stan's illustrious career occurred at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, marking his retirement from the Greenwood School District and The Forging Place. Reflecting on his years of service, Stan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside his wife, Cindie. Both daughters and their families beckon, offering in-law living areas in Arkansas and Hawaii. The couple plans to savor their retirement with road trips to national parks and monuments.
Stan's story is one of selflessness, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to community. Whether in school hallways, counseling sessions, or on the football field, his influence has left an indelible mark on the lives of students and families in the Greenwood area. As a member of the Hall of Honor Class of 2023, Stan Escalante stands as a testament to the transformative power of a life devoted to love, mercy, and humble service. His parting message echoes a simple yet profound truth: God always opens and closes doors. If He opens a door, walk through it; if He closes a door, don't keep pushing on it.
The Greenwood Education Foundation is proud to introduce Stan Escalante as a member of the Hall of Honor Class of 2023.
School Principal Month 📚🏫🚌
The 8th grade game with Pea Ridge has been canceled for tonight.
Congratulations to the Greenwood Preschool Center for achieving the Best of the Best River Valley award!
Great things happening in Greenwood Schools!
Greenwood Education Foundation 2023 Hall of Honor inductee, Ms. Cinda Bell.
Cinda Bell is an inspirational individual who, following in the example of her family’s footsteps, has truly been loyal to her Greenwood roots her entire life.
Cinda attended Greenwood Schools from first grade through senior year and graduated in the Class of 1964. After attending Hendrix College in 1969 she returned to Greenwood and joined the family business, Osborn Insurance Agency, in 1969.
From the beginning of her business career, Bell began her second career of giving back to the Greenwood Community as a businesswoman, corporate citizen, inspirational leader, friend, and philanthropist. She has served as a Partner in Education representative, a member of Friends of the Library, President of the Fort Smith Little Theatre, Treasurer of the South Sebastian County Historical Society, and served on the Board of Vache Grasse Country Club and on the Western Arkansas Mountain Frontier Tourism Board. She served several terms on the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and has served as past Chair of the Greenwood Parks Commission. She founded the Bell Park Foundation to help continue the growth and development of the beautiful Bell Park.
In recognition of outstanding service, Bell was recognized with several distinguished awards. In 2008 she was selected as the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and in 2014 she was the recipient of the Independent Insurance Agents Charlotte Patterson Memorial Award.
One of Bell’s passions is serving on the Greenwood Parks Commission as she has worked tirelessly on the revitalization of Bell Park, property that was donated by her family. Adding a playground, picnic pavilions, and the Ed Wilkinson Community Center are some of the projects that have kept her busy for the past few years. Her latest goal is bringing a new splash pad to Bell Park.
Bell’s commitment to the continued enhancement of community resources and the preservation of its history guarantees that her legacy will touch future generations of Greenwood citizens. For supporting the community of Greenwood with generosity and fidelity, the Greenwood Education Foundation is proud to induct Cinda Bell into the 2023 Hall of Honor Class.
A reception in honor of the inductees will take place at the Student Union, starting at 5:30 PM on Friday, October 20th. We extend a warm invitation to all members of our community to attend.
School Principal Month 🏫🏫
The Greenwood Education Foundation will be inducting four new members into the GEF Hall of Honor.
A reception honoring the inductees will be held in the Student Union beginning at 5:30 on Friday, October 20th.
Everyone is invited to attend the reception to recognize these individuals.
The 2023 Class of Hall of Honor inductees are:
Cinda Bell
Stan Escalante
Hortense Stafford
Ann and Don Williams
Come join us in celebrating their exceptional contributions to our community and education.
Congratulations to GHS Junior Payton Scantling!
Payton achieved a PERFECT score on the ACT! 🎉📚 and was recognized for this achievement by the Greenwood School board at last night's meeting.👏🏻👏🏻
#GSDexcellence
SCHOOL PRINCIPAL MONTH 🚌🏫
The primary beneficiaries of a principal's dedication and efforts, often have profound insights and opinions about their school's principal. Here, we present some heartfelt opinions shared by Greenwood Jr. high school students about their principal.
Mark Your Calendars for Parent Teacher Conferences and Fall Break Days!🍁🍂🍁
No School For Students on Friday, Oct. 20th and Monday, Oct. 23rd
Your commitment to supporting our upcoming Bowling Event 🎳🎳for our Special Olympics athletes truly warms our hearts.💙
Everyone can play a crucial role in making this event a resounding success.
$2.00 and wear your favorite hat on Oct. 27th in support👒🤠🎩🧢
School Principal Month 🚌📚🏫🏫
SCHOOL PRINCIPAL MONTH 🚌🏫🏫
NATIONAL SCHOOL PRINCIPAL MONTH 🏫
The Annual Band Performance was a HUGE Success!! 🎷🎺🎸🎼🎹🎵🎶🥁
Playing to a packed crowd in the bleachers, Greenwood students 6th grade - 12th grade played on Friday evening at the Smith-Robinson Stadium.
Featuring a variety of songs and an impressive demonstration of the Drumline's capabilities, the Bands delivered a spectacular and unforgettable performance. Stay tuned for more!
The JV football 🏈game with Van Buren scheduled for tonight, Oct. 9th has been canceled.
School Principal Month is a special time when we celebrate the dedicated leaders who play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience of students. In the corridors of our high school, students share their perspectives on what they believe their principal does.
These future leaders of tomorrow, have unique insights into the daily responsibilities and impact of their principal. Through their thoughts and reflections, we gain a deeper understanding of the incredible work carried out by our school principals, who work tirelessly to create a positive and nurturing learning environment.
Congratulations to the junior high quiz bowl team that finished second at the Mena Invitational! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Captain Dexter Coston led the team in scoring. Other players were Story Clark, Bryson Cook, Lucas Stromley, Maylee Bethel, and Seth Fontenot.
The GHS quiz bowl team finished third in the Mena Invitational tournament. Congratulations to all the members of the Quiz Bowl teams!👏🏻👏🏻
