PK–12 Public Schools · Hot Springs, Arkansas

Academics

Special programs

Gifted & talented, flexible learning options, career coaching, CTE, counseling, and the supports that help CMS students grow beyond the standard classroom day.

Enrollment paths Academics overview

Beyond the core day

Programs that meet students where they are.

Not every Eagle learns the same way. CMS offers enrichment for high-ability learners, intervention when students need extra help, career exploration in high school, and—where Arkansas rules allow—virtual and hybrid paths that keep families connected to one district.

Eligibility, paperwork, and deadlines vary by program. Use this page to understand what is available; use admissions and family resources for forms and downloads.

Students in the CMS library

Programs

What CMS offers

Call the district office at (501) 262-2414 if you are unsure which program fits your student.

Gifted & talented

Identification, nomination forms, and enrichment for students who need additional challenge. Policy handbooks and teacher checklists are in the family document library under Gifted and Talented.

Browse GT documents

Virtual & hybrid

Eligible students may blend home-based learning with district support while remaining enrolled with CMS where rules allow—including homeschool-hybrid options through Connect Care.

Enrollment paths

Career coaching

High school students explore careers, workplace skills, and next steps after graduation. CMS connects school to jobs, training, or college with counselor and coaching support.

CMS High School

National Park College

Eligible juniors and seniors may access college coursework and pathways through National Park College—part of how CMS prepares students for post-secondary success.

National Park College

CTE & fine arts

Career and technical education, art, band, choir, and performance opportunities let students build real skills and represent CMS with pride.

Athletics & activities

Counseling & wellness

Academic planning, social-emotional support, and nursing services on campus. Nurse packets and health forms are downloadable from family resources.

Health & nurse forms
CMS students in class

Student life

Growth shows up in many places

Families see academic progress alongside Beta achievements, fine arts performances, athletic seasons, and service in the community. Programs reinforce what happens in core classrooms—they do not replace them.

  • Beta & service — leadership and character through school organizations
  • Fine arts — band, choir, art, and performances on both buildings
  • Athletics — Eagle teams for grades 7–12; schedules at CMS Eagles Athletics
District news

Instructional continuity

Alternative methods of instruction (AMI)

When weather or emergencies interrupt the school day, CMS may use approved AMI plans so learning can continue at home. Reference sheets and district AMI documents are in the family document library (search “AMI”). Campuses communicate how AMI days apply to your student.

Quick answers

Special programs FAQs

CMS follows district GT policies and Arkansas guidelines. Nomination forms, identification checklists, and parent permission documents are in the family document library. Contact your campus office or counselor to ask about the timeline for your child’s grade.

Qualifying homeschool-hybrid families may use Connect Care where Arkansas requirements are met. Start on our enrollment process page and call (501) 262-2414 so admissions can explain how hybrid enrollment works at CMS.

High school families should contact the CMS High School office for current career coaching contacts. Related media and district documents may appear in the document library. For college dual-enrollment questions, also explore National Park College.

Enrollment path (residency, School Choice, virtual, or hybrid) is separate from program eligibility. Families outside the district should review admissions deadlines—especially the June 1 School Choice date for many transfers—before assuming a seat in a specific program.

Related pages

Instruction Curriculum
Enroll Admissions
Campus CMS High School

Ask about a program

Tell us your student’s grade and what you are exploring—we will connect you with the right campus team or admissions contact.

Speak to admissions