Cyberattack Disrupts Communications Across Arkansas' Fort Smith School District

A cybersecurity incident has disabled phone and internet services across the Fort Smith Public Schools in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The disruption was first reported on July 21, 2025, through the district’s official Facebook page and has affected all communication systems districtwide. The nature of the cyberattack has not been publicly disclosed, and a timeline for full service restoration remains unavailable. District spokesperson Addie Reith confirmed that a third-party firm has been engaged to assist with recovery efforts.

The attack comes just weeks before the district’s scheduled first day of school on August 13. Officials have stated that the disruption is not expected to delay the academic year’s start. In compliance with Act 260, the district has notified all required agencies and continues to follow Arkansas Department of Education guidelines. According to state records, school districts were the most affected category in the 132 public-sector cybersecurity incidents reported between July 2023 and June 2024.