Fort Smith School District Settles Lawsuit with Former Coach

The Fort Smith Public School District board approved a $525,000 settlement on August 24, 2026, to resolve a lawsuit filed by former Northside High School football coach Felix Curry.

Curry, who was reassigned to a detention center in December 2024 without board approval, alleged his treatment violated Arkansas law and included racial discrimination compared to white coaches.

The settlement requires the district to provide Curry with a letter of recommendation within 14 days, though the district maintains it acted appropriately and admits no liability for the claims.