Friday, March 15, 2024

Friday Highlights 3.15.24

 

March is:

Women's History Month
National Reading Month
National Nutrition Month
National Social Work Month
Red Cross Month
National Cheerleading Safety Month

Important Dates: 

March 18-22: Spring Break (Schools/Offices Closed)
March 25: Superintendent's Citation Program (5:30 pm)

March 28: New Date for March School Board Meeting (Changed from March 14th)
April 2: Autism Awareness Day
April 3: Paraprofessional Appreciation Day
April 4: Library/Media Specialist Appreciation Day
April 4: Totality STEM Event
April 8: Schools/Offices Closed for Eclipse

Victory Alert!
LR Central Boys and Girls Basketball Teams Win State Championship Games

Big congrats to the Central High School Girls' and Boy's Basketball Teams for their outstanding performance and victory in the state championship games! Way to make your school, your LRSD family, and your city proud!


p.s. Thanks, @Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., for lighting up the City in honor of the Tigers!  

Reminder: Spring Break Starts Next Week!

Little Rock School District schools and offices will be closed next week for Spring Break! We want to wish everyone a fantastic break filled with fun and relaxation! See you when classes resume!

Kindness Rewarded: Mabelvale Elementary Students Receive Free Shoes!

Spreading kindness isn't just rewarding for the soul — it can also lead to some tangible benefits! During 'Kindness Week' at Mabelvale Elementary, students who were nominated for their random acts of kindness toward their peers and staff received a heartwarming surprise. Thanks to Rack Room Shoes, these deserving students were gifted with a free pair of shoes. The joy on their faces says it all! This wonderful initiative not only encourages kindness but also showcases the power of recognizing and rewarding positive behavior. Congratulations to all the students who spread kindness and received this well-deserved gesture of appreciation. Let's continue to spread kindness throughout our community and beyond!

Triumph of Talent! 10th Anniversary of Artistry in the Rock Provides 3 Days of Creativity and Inspiration

In a whirlwind of creativity and talent, the Little Rock School District's 10th Anniversary of Artistry in the Rock concludes after three spectacular days. Students showcased their boundless creativity and dedication to the arts, from mesmerizing performances to awe-inspiring art pieces. Each day was a celebration of the vibrant artistic community within LRSD, with attendees treated to a variety of talents and expressions. As the curtains close on this year's event, we reflect on the incredible impact of Artistry in the Rock in fostering creativity, collaboration, and confidence among our students. Heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to making this event a success - especially LRSD's Fine Arts Department, Dr. IJ Routen, and a host of volunteers.

More great photos from the event found here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/137350739@N06/

At the Top of Their Culinary Game
Congrats, Chef Tara Rainey and Metro Culinary students.  The team placed 2nd in the State ProStart Culinary & State ProStart Management Competitions. Chef Rainey was also awarded the Arkansas ProStart Teacher of the Year through the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation. 

A Day of Community Support and Success at  LRSD's Parent & Family Engagement Event


In a one-stop shopping effort, LRSD's recent Parent & Family Engagement connected families with resources and services, including complimentary haircuts, stylish prom attire, exciting door prizes, and a delicious lunch. We want to thank the parents, stakeholders, and our remarkable community whose collective efforts made this event a shining example of what it means to be #LRSDProud.

Central High Wrestling Makes History at State Tournament

The Central High School wrestling season for 2023-24 showcased impressive accomplishments, particularly from the girls' team, which secured their highest-ever placing in school history by clinching the State Runner-Up title. Eight wrestlers also attained All-State recognition, and four reached the state finals. Meanwhile, despite a young roster, the boys' team displayed resilience and talent, finishing 5th at the 6A State Tournament with seven wrestlers earning All-State honors and two making it to the state finals. These achievements culminated in Coach Aaron Butler being rightfully honored as the 6A Wrestling Coach of the Year. Congratulations to everyone!


Save the Date for LRSD's Inaugural Black Male Educator Summit

Additional details and registration information will be shared soon.  Right now, mark your calendars for this inaugural event.  

Little Rock Southwest Hosts Inaugural HBCU Student Forum Fostering Collaboration & Empowerment

Little Rock Southwest High School hosted an inaugural HBCU Student Forum this week. The event brought together scholars from prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Alabama A&M University, Alcorn State University, Grambling State University, Jackson State University, and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The forum served as a platform for engaging in discussions, sharing experiences, and fostering growth opportunities among students.

In Other News from Southwest... Educators Gain Insightful Training at Ron Clark Academy

Educators from Little Rock Southwest High School recently had the opportunity to immerse themselves in an enriching experience at the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. Organized with the support of the SONIC® Foundation, the two-day event welcomed over 125 educators from various public school districts nationwide. Led by co-founder Ron Clark and facilitated by educators like Neresa Williams and Terentia Phillips, participants attended workshops, gaining invaluable insights into effective teaching methodologies. Renowned for its innovative approach, the Ron Clark Academy provides a dynamic setting for educators to observe and engage in hands-on learning, empowering them to enhance their classroom practices.

Forest Heights STEM Academy Excels at AFLTA State Tournament

The Forest Heights STEM Academy Foreign Language Competition Team showcased their talent at the Arkansas State Foreign Language Competition, securing top honors and impressing judges and spectators alike with their remarkable performances. The team won first place in categories such as the French Culture Bowl and Musical Group Performance. The Little Rock School District family is incredibly proud of the accomplishments of the FHSA Foreign Language Competition Team!

LRSD Destination Imagination Teams Shine at State Tournament


We're thrilled to congratulate the 13 LRSD Destination Imagination teams for their outstanding achievements in the DI Season! These teams, comprised of 80 students from seven schools, showcased their incredible creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills at the recent State Destination Imagination Tournament held last Saturday. Guided by 16 dedicated team managers, these students participated in various STEAM challenges, from technical and engineering to fine arts and service learning. Their hard work and dedication paid off with an impressive five 1st Place and seven 2nd Place awards at the State Tournament, where they competed against 25 teams from across the region. A huge round of applause to our talented teams and their managers!

Roberts Elementary Headed to Globals after Securing State Robotics Championship

Congratulations to the Roberts Elementary students who emerged victorious as the Vex Robotics State Champions! After showcasing unparalleled skill, innovation, and teamwork, the students have secured their spot at Globals. This amazing achievement not only highlights their dedication but also embodies the spirit of excellence within the LRSD community.

LRSD and Caissa Begin Second Phase of Recruitment/Retention Partnership

The Little Rock School District continues phase two of its strategic partnership with Caissa, a leading educational organization focused on student recruitment and retention. Community members may recall LRSD’s pilot project with Caissa last summer that included phone calls, texts, and surveys, seeking feedback to better meet the needs of families. Caissa implements a diverse range of tools to showcase the assets of the districts with which they work to get students back in classrooms and to keep them there. If you get emails or calls/texts from 501-503-3168, 501-512-1656, or 501-260-7244 -they are legitimate communication from LRSD.

LRSD Team Member Celebrated
During Black History Month
We know that Black History Month is officially observed in February, but since City Year decided to celebrate one of LRSD's own, we will, too. You won't find a more passionate employee than Steven Young, Mabelvale Middle, especially when it comes to his students! Way to go, Mr. Young!

Public Speaking Contest Deadline Today! Limited Number of Applicants Accepted


It's that time again. Don't sleep on turning in your application for the annual Ralph Vines Public Speaking Contest - a limited number of contestants accepted due to growing popularity! You can find more information in the picture above. The application can also be found at this link:: https://5il.co/2cwa4. Deadline for submissions: March 15th.


Download the New App




Principal Pool Application Process Now Open

Click on this link to read the flyer and get information on applying.

In Other Employment News...







Little Rock Zoo to Display Dragon Kingdom!

Opening Saturday and running through September, guests of the Little Rock Zoo can enjoy a new exhibition called the Dragon Kingdom. Learn the similarities and connections between animals of the natural world and mythical creatures. Come face-to-face with dragons that mirror characteristics of enormous lizards, snakes, and other creatures. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
To learn more and get tickets, click on the following link:  https://www.littlerockzoo.com/events/spring-break-2024/

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Little Rock!

Make your way to downtown Little Rock and cheer on the marching parade with shamrock-themed excitement. Check out the lively atmosphere, where visitors can watch local community members celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The parade will be on March 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. It starts in North Little Rock and travels over the Arkansas River to the Main Street Bridge and through the River Market District. 
Join the Fun: Community Egg Hunt at Mabelvale Elementary

Get ready for an egg-citing event on March 28, 2024, at Mabelvale Elementary, where LRSD students, families, and staff will come together for a hopping good time! This event promises free food, games, door prizes, and valuable parent resources. The first 10 LRSD students in attendance will even receive a free bucket for the egg hunt. Don't miss out — join us for an egg-stravaganza filled with fun and laughter!

Scholarship Opportunity for Students
Interested in Pursuing Music-Related Degrees

Do You Have an Event/Information You Would Like Featured in Our Blog?

Fill out this media request form: https://lrsd.jotform.com/201056269402044?
Remember, the deadline for each week's submissions is Thursday at noon.

Friday, March 8, 2024

Friday Highlights 3.8.24

 

March is:

Women's History Month
National Reading Month
National Nutrition Month
National Social Work Month
Red Cross Month
National Cheerleading Safety Month

Important Dates: 

March 8: International Women's Day
March 10: Daylight Saving Time Begins
March 12: LR PTA Council Meeting (11:30 am - 12:30 pm)
March 12-14: Artistry in the Rock
March 18-22: Spring Break 
(Schools/Offices Closed)
March 25: Superintendent's Citation Program (5:30 pm)
March 31: Easter
March 28: New Date for March School Board Meeting (Changed from March 14th)
Save-the-Date: April 8 (Schools/Offices Closed for Eclipse)

Slam Dunk into Excitement! Get Your Tickets Now to Cheer on Central's Girls and Boys at State!

Exciting news! Our Central High Tigers - boys and girls teams - are in the State Championship game! Tickets are now available for purchase. Don't miss the chance to witness thrilling moments and cheer for our teams. Make sure to get your tickets in advance by clicking on the link here: https://gofan.co/app/school/AAA. Before you head to the games, be sure to take a moment to familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items at the Bank OZK Arena. Adhering to the guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Check out the list here: https://www.hotsprings.org/explore/bank-ozarks-arena/. Let's make this championship unforgettable! See you at the games! Go, TIGERS!!!

Time to Move Forward - Daylight Saving Time This Weekend!

Metro and LRSD to Continue and Expand Collaborative Partnership with UALR, Enhancing Education Opportunities


The Little Rock School District and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock unveiled an enhanced partnership, aimed at providing increased opportunities for Metro students. The expanded collaboration introduces the innovative Cyber-Security Pathway. at the same time as this exciting news, Metro student Trelan Washington was recognized for his exceptional creativity in crafting a captivating 360 Tour Demonstration.

Chicot Elementary Leads the Way as Arkansas Kicks Off School Breakfast Month

Chicot Elementary and Early Childhood Center in LRSD took center stage as Arkansas kicked off School Breakfast Month in collaboration with the national celebration. The event was a resounding success, with a notable presence of state and local dignitaries, including Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. The school's dedication to the cause was evident, making it a standout event. 

10 Years of Creativity! Upcoming Artistry in the Rock Celebration Showcases Student Talent


Throwback Pic Collage to 2017

Celebrating a decade of creativity! Join us in commemorating the 10th Anniversary of Artistry in the Rock, a milestone that celebrates the artistic expression of our students. The event will be held at the Hall of Industry at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds from March 12 to 14. Thank you to all the student artists, supporters, and the Little Rock Fine Arts Department for helping create the event. See the full schedule of performances below!


Big Wins for LRSD at
Central Arkansas Science Fair


We are also proud of our student researchers who presented at the 2024 Central Arkansas Regional Science and Engineering Fair (CARSEF).  Three-hundred-forty-four students participated in CARSEF.  Little Rock School District came away with many of the top awards.  They are listed below:

Junior Division – 1st Place Winners from LRSD

Jack Graves – Pinnacle View
Avyukth Thummalakunta – Don Roberts
Aaarav Yadav – Pinnacle View
Yana Pandit – Pinnacle View

Senior Division – 1st Place Winners from LRSD/LRCH 
Disha Ram
Geethika Atluri
Bhavana Sridharan
Fajr Abdeldayem
Aakash Bhattacharyya
Ava Johnson
Bennet Chen
Aniyah Meghani
Olya Tryndyak
Lasya Buddha
Nikhil Dogra

UAMS Cancer Research Award 
Winner – Siddharth Sridharan – LRCH
Runner-Up – Geethika Atluri - LRCH

Soybean Science Challenge: $300 student award, $200 teacher award
Bennet Chen – LRCH

Regeneron Biomedical Science Award - $500
Olya Tryndyak – LRCH

ISEF Awardees – Trip to the International Science and Engineering Fair in May in Los Angeles
Olya Tryndyak 
Bhavana Sridharan 
Yahya Younus 
Aniyah Meghani

Congratulations!

LRSD's Little Rockers Dash to Glory at
This Year's Marathon

Congratulations to the amazing kiddos from the Little Rock School District who participated in the Little Rock Marathon this past weekend. Your energy and grit truly stand out!

Little Rock Southwest Drone Students
 Help Elevate City Growth


Little Rock Southwest High School drone students are taking their learning to new heights with a site survey for the Little Rock Port Authority (LRPA). This exercise allows the young pilots to demonstrate their skills and provide footage to the LRPA to help the agency attract manufacturers to Little Rock, which will bring jobs to Central Arkansas. 

LRSD Parental Engagement Department to Host School Community Resource Fair


Free haircuts, prom attire, door prizes, lunch, and more. Sound like something you're interested in? Then join the LRSD Parental Engagement Department for this weekend's Resource Fair. It's also a great way to access other resources to help your child be successful. Make plans to attend this Saturday's Parent and Family Engagement event at Henderson Teaching and Learning Center, 401 Barrow, starting at 10 a.m.

LRSD and Caissa Begin Second Phase of Recruitment/Retention Partnership


The Little Rock School District is excited to begin phase two of its strategic partnership with Caissa, a leading educational organization focused on student recruitment and retention. Community members may recall LRSD’s pilot project with Caissa last summer that included phone calls, texts, and surveys, seeking feedback to better meet the needs of families. Caissa implements a diverse range of tools to showcase the assets of the districts with which they work to get students back in classrooms and to keep them there. If you get emails or calls/texts from 501-503-3168, 501-512-1656, or 501-260-7244 -they are legitimate communication from LRSD.

Public Speaking Contest Deadline Coming Up Soon! Limited Number of Applicants Accepted



It's that time again. Don't sleep on turning in your application for the annual Ralph Vines Public Speaking Contest - a limited number of contestants accepted due to growing popularity! You can find more information in the picture above. The application can also be found at this link:: https://5il.co/2cwa4. Deadline for submissions: March 15th.

Download the New App



Principal Pool Application Process Now Open

Click on this link to read the flyer and get information on applying.

In Other Employment News...


Keep Little Rock Beautiful!
2024 City Wide Cleanup
Happening This Weekend
Keep Little Rock Beautiful's 15th Annual City Wide Cleanup will be held this Saturday! The event is part of the Great American Cleanup. Everyone is encouraged to volunteer at one of the many cleanups that will be taking place across the city. For a list of cleanup locations, click here

Make Plans to Get Your Tickets and
Support Horace Mann Middle School!


Soup Sunday This Weekend

For more information and tickets:  https://www.aradvocates.org/events/central-arkansas-soup-sunday-2024/

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Little Rock!

Make your way to downtown Little Rock and cheer on the marching parade with shamrock-themed excitement. Delve into a lively atmosphere where visitors can watch local community members celebrating St. Patrick's Day festivities. The parade will be on March 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. It starts in North Little Rock and travels over the Arkansas River to the Main Street Bridge and through the River Market District. 

AMFA Hosts Educator Appreciation Day for 
Dragons Love Tacos

Photo of the cast of Dragons Love Tacos on stage in costume posing and smiling.

The upcoming AMFA's Children's Theatre production of Dragons Love Tacos opens to the public with a roar this weekend! Don't miss your chance to enjoy $3 off tickets during Educator Appreciation Day on Saturday, March 9.

Seats are still available for the 2:00 p.m. performance, which offers you an opportunity to meet the cast and get a backstage tour after the show.

Reserve your seat now using promo code EDUCATOR24 at checkout. Here's the link for tickets.

Scholarship Opportunity for Students
Interested in Pursuing Music-Related Degrees

Do You Have an Event/Information You Would Like Featured in Our Blog?

Fill out this media request form: https://lrsd.jotform.com/201056269402044?
Remember, the deadline for each week's submissions is Thursday at noon.