Hands-On Learning in Eureka Springs

(Editor’s Note: Each year, Arkansas Business partners with the Arkansas Municipal League to present the Trendsetter City awards, which recognize exceptional initiatives underway in municipalities across the state. Large, medium and small-sized cities were honored in six categories: Diversity and Inclusion; Education/Workforce Development; Infrastructure and Water; Public Works/Environmental and Green Management; Technology and Security; and Tourism Development/Creative Culture. Below is one winner’s story. For more, click here.) 

Education/Workforce Development
Winner • Under 5,000

The Challenge

Eureka Springs is known for its inclusivity and historic downtown. As a small town with an economy driven primarily by tourism, Eureka Springs doesn’t have corporations or foundations to help fund some initiatives and programs. But that doesn’t stop the city from putting its best foot forward when it comes to the education and preparedness of the upcoming generations. Through this city’s efforts, students are able to learn new skills in the aviation and historic preservation industries.

The Solution

The Eureka Springs School District’s Career and Technical Education program includes a successful science, technology, engineering and math division. Through a partnership with the Carroll County Airport, You Can Fly — a student aviation and flight school program — was created. Here, students will receive real flight experience and learn about career opportunities in aerospace, aviation and STEM industries. The city also created the Eureka Springs Preservation Craft & Trade Tech Program, facilitating a hands-on environment for historic preservation skills development.

Keep it Classic

Eureka Springs has 967 historic properties spanning a variety of architectural styles and periods in the historic district alone.

See more of Trendsetter City