Friday, June 30, 2023

6.30.23 Friday Highlights

  

June is National Safety Month
Men's Health Month
Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month
Immigrant Heritage Month
July 4:     Independence Day (Schools and Offices Closed)
July 10:   Personnel Policy Committee Meeting @5:00pm
July 13:   Board Work Session @ 5:30pm
July 15:   ACT Test

LRSD Student takes Gold at
SkillsUSA Nationals 

 
We are thrilled to announce that one of our very own students, Devin Brown, has won the gold medal at this year's SkillsUSA Nationals in Action Skills! This prestigious award is a testament to Devin's hard work and dedication in showcasing his leadership skills in the workplace. Devin set a goal for himself to go for the gold this year, and he did it! We could not be more proud of him and his accomplishments. Congratulations, Devin, on this well-deserved recognition!

LR West Student Receives Educational Opportunity from Stone Ward

Congrats to Ayat Alkhatib, a student at LR West, awarded a $500 scholarship from Stone Ward's Building Good Fund through the Arkansas Community Foundation. Ayat's exceptional work in a course and creative poster competition qualified her for this amazing educational opportunity. 

She plans to use the scholarship to pursue a minor in graphic design at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in the fall. We are proud of Ayat for this accomplishment and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Pulaski Heights Middle School's FBLA Team Take on Finals


Pulaski Heights Middle School's FBLA Team advances to the national finals and currently ranks 14th in the nation in Annual Chapter Activities, Community Service Presentation, Exploring Business Issues, and FBLA Mission & Pledge. This is a remarkable achievement for these students and their advisors.

The FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) is a prestigious organization that promotes career development and leadership skills for students interested in business and entrepreneurship. The Pulaski Heights Middle School's FBLA Team has demonstrated exceptional skills and knowledge in various business-related events, earning them a spot in the national finals.

We are proud of the team's commitment to community service and their efforts to make a positive impact in the community. Their dedication is a reflection of the school's values and mission to cultivate responsible and engaged citizens.

Dunbar Middle School Students Have a
 Summer of Discovery


Dunbar Middle School students had the exciting opportunity to visit the Arkansas Museum of Discovery, exploring the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The students enjoyed hands-on activities and interactive exhibits.  We are grateful to the Arkansas Museum of Discovery for providing such an enriching experience for our students.

LRSD Leaders Attend Mamas Unidas V Anniversary Gala 


Last Thursday, the Mamas Unidas team had their V Anniversary Gala and several LRSD leaders were in attendance. Mamas Unidas LR is an organization dedicated to helping the Hispanic community learn about higher education in the United States. Thank you, Mama Unidas, for all the work you do for students and the greater community.

LRSD - Teacher Retreat


Great to see our educators refreshing and recharging during a Teacher Rejuvenation Retreat! According to Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright, this event got rave reviews!  A shout-out to the staff and partners who helped attendees prioritize staff wellness.
Important Reminder About Dead Week

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Friends of CALS Used Book Sale

The Friends of CALS Used Book Sale is set for July 13-15 in the basement of the Main Library located at 100 Rock Street in downtown Little Rock. This sale offers educators a 25% discount on $1 books (both paperbacks and hardbacks). The sale takes place during these hours: Thursday, July 13 at 5-7pm (Friends members only, memberships sold at the door and online at www.cals.org); Friday, July 14 at 10am-6pm; and Saturday, July 15 at 10am-4pm. Please pass this information along to the teachers and staff in your district. 

Bluey's Big Play


Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 7:00 PM
Thursday, July 13, 2023, 10:00 AM

Grab the sticky geckos, break out the duck cakes, and alert the gIt'sies! It’s time to meet the much-loved Heeler family, coming to Robinson Center July 12-13, 2023, with the Bluey liBluey's, Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show! The Emmy® Award-winning animated preschool series on Disney Junior, Disney Channel, and Disney+" will be “taking the show on"the road” to the Robinson Center.

39th Annual Pops on the River - July 4



Pops on the River, presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, features music from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestrkids'od, kids' activities, and fireworks! Click here for additional info.


See artporter.org for more. 

Here's Where Little Rock's Cool Meter
Goes Way Up!  

Jumpstart your weekends every Friday in June with an evening of art, fun, games, and music on the lawn at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
Games include Baggo, bocce ball, or Giant Jenga; plus - you can enjoy free outdoor art classes led by an instructor from the Wingate Art School.  Space is limited for the approximately 30-minute class. Supplies are included.
The cherry on top of the sundae: you can visit the galleries or pick up some gifts from the Museum Store.  AMFA stays open until 8 p.m.
Need to Freshen Up a Bit?
You Can Do It Every Saturday...
Now in its 48th season, the Little Rock Farmers Market is back in full swing.  Located in the River Market Pavilion, the market is open each Saturday through Labor Day weekend, come rain or shine, 
7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Friday, June 23, 2023

6.23.23 Friday Highlights

 

June is National Safety Month
Men's Health Month
Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month
Immigrant Heritage Month

LRSD Educators Attend Solution Tree Conference

LRSD educators recently participated in the Solution Tree PLC Conference, an event designed to provide educators with the latest research, strategies, and best practices for improving student achievement. Thankful for these amazing educators who spent the last three days learning and growing to make 2023-24 a wonderful school year!

LRSD School Nurses Attend ASNA Conference


LRSD school nurses recently attended the annual Arkansas School Nurses Association (ASNA) conference. The conference provided an opportunity for the nurses to learn about the latest developments and best practices in school nursing. 

Attendees participated in various educational sessions and workshops focused on topics such as epilepsy and student advocacy, the Safe Schools initiative, and emergency preparedness. The conference also allowed the nurses to network with other school nurses from around the state, sharing insights and experiences to enhance their skills and knowledge.

LRSD Athletic Director Received 2023 AAA Citation Award


Please join us in congratulating LRSD Athletic Director John Daniels on receiving the 2023 AAA Citation Award. The award is for administrators that have had a longstanding and distinguished record of involvement with high school activity programs at the local, district, and state level. Congrats again Mr. Daniels on this outstanding achievement!

Dunbar Middle School Students are Beating the "Summer Slide"


Not only are LRSD teachers and staff advancing their knowledge this summer, so are our students. We are so proud of the Dunbar Middle School Students who are beating the summer slide by filling learning gaps, reviewing what they learned last school year, and preparing for next school year.
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.

Friends of CALS Used Book Sale

The Friends of CALS Used Book Sale is set for July 13-15 in the basement of the Main Library located at 100 Rock Street in downtown Little Rock. This sale offers educators a 25% discount on $1 books (both paperbacks and hardbacks). The sale takes place during these hours: Thursday, July 13 at 5-7pm (Friends members only, memberships sold at the door and online at www.cals.org); Friday, July 14 at 10am-6pm; and Saturday, July 15 at 10am-4pm. Please pass this information along to the teachers and staff in your district. 

Bluey's Big Play


Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 7:00 PM
Thursday, July 13, 2023, 10:00 AM

Grab the sticky geckos, break out the duck cakes, and alert the gIt'sies! It’s time to meet the much-loved Heeler family, coming to Robinson Center July 12-13, 2023, with the Bluey liBluey's, Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show! The Emmy® Award-winning animated preschool series on Disney Junior, Disney Channel, and Disney+" will be “taking the show on"the road” to the Robinson Center.

39th Annual Pops on the River - July 4



Pops on the River, presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, features music from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestrkids'od, kids' activities, and fireworks! Click here for additional info.


See artporter.org for more. 

Here's Where Little Rock's Cool Meter
Goes Way Up!  

Jumpstart your weekends every Friday in June with an evening of art, fun, games, and music on the lawn at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
Games include Baggo, bocce ball, or Giant Jenga; plus - you can enjoy free outdoor art classes led by an instructor from the Wingate Art School.  Space is limited for the approximately 30-minute class. Supplies are included.
The cherry on top of the sundae: you can visit the galleries or pick up some gifts from the Museum Store.  AMFA stays open until 8 p.m.
Need to Freshen Up a Bit?
You Can Do It Every Saturday...
Now in its 48th season, the Little Rock Farmers Market is back in full swing.  Located in the River Market Pavillion, the market is open each Saturday through Labor Day weekend, come rain or shine, 
7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Friday, June 16, 2023

6.16.23 Friday Highlights

 

June is National Safety Month
Men's Health Month
Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month
Immigrant Heritage Month

June 14:     Flag Day
June 15:     Marking Period 4 Report Cards - Secondary Schools (Available on HAC/Sent Home)
June 16:     Registration Deadline for July ACT
June 18:     Father's Day
June 19:     Juneteenth Observed (District Offices & Summer School Campuses Closed)
June 22:     School Board Meeting

Happy Father's Day!



As we approach Father's Day, LRSD would like to extend our warmest wishes to all the fathers and father figures in our community. Research shows that when fathers are engaged in their child's education, it has a positive impact on their academic success.
We recognize the important role fathers play in their children's lives and encourage all fathers/father figures to continue being involved in their child's education. Let's celebrate Father's Day by supporting and recognizing the positive impact of father engagement.

Happy Juneteenth!

Join us in celebrating Juneteenth, an annual holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. This day provides an opportunity to honor the resilience and contributions of the African American community and to reflect on the continued pursuit of equality. Several community events will take place over the next few days commemorating this historic occasion in recognition and celebration of African American culture. The holiday will be observed on Monday, June 19th.  LRSD offices and summer school programs will be closed. 

11-Year-Old LRSD Student's Hard Work
Earns Feature on KARK 


Forest Heights STEM Academy student Jayden Nelson is doing awesome things! Jayden took on the challenge to mow 50 lawns for the elderly, disabled, veterans, and single parents to compete. The challenge was created by an Alabama-based non-profit group called Raising Men and Women Lawn Care Services. 

As a result of his dedication, he received a new lawn mower, leaf blower, and weed eater. Jayden plans to mow 50 more lawns for first responders. We are so proud of Jayden and are rooting for him as he takes on his next challenge.  Click here to see the story.  

Way to Go, Dr. Shoutell Richardson -
Giving the Dish on Avoid "Brain Drain"
or the "Summer Slide"

LRSD Students' Artwork Selected For
 Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Exhibit


We are thrilled to announce that the artwork of LRSD students is being showcased in the Arkansas Museum of Fine Art's 62nd Young Arkansas Artists virtual exhibition. Six of our schools received honors for our entire state! Seventy-seven schools participated, and the work of only 5% was selected to be displayed, earning students a gift certificate for art supplies. 

This is a significant achievement, and we would like to extend our warmest congratulations to the students whose artwork was featured in this exhibition. We encourage everyone to view the virtual exhibition and celebrate our students' remarkable accomplishments: 

Here is a list of winning schools and teachers:

Wakefield - Cheryl Compagna
Williams -  Benita Robinson
Forest Heights - Shelby Baker
Parkview - Matt TerAvest
Gibbs - Blair Ray
Central - Jason McCann


It's a Wrap for LRSD Spark Camp 2023 


LRSD's GT SPARK Summer Camp wrapped up today. The camp provided a unique opportunity for students to explore their interest in STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. 

The program is designed to help students develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills through a variety of fun and engaging activities. Led by experienced instructors, activities included Mimicbots, Pop-Up Venues and Event Planning Entrepreneurs, space-age flying cars, gliding flyers, Circuit Sculptures, Origami bots, and more.  Additional photos will be shared on LRSD's Facebook page.  

LRCH Students Dominate Science Show

Central High School is celebrating a major victory after dominating the 2023 International Science and Engineering Fair held in Dallas, Texas. Out of the 18 Arkansas teens who received awards, the most recipients came from Central. This is an incredible achievement and a testament to the dedication and hard work of both the students and faculty. We are proud to be part of a community that values education and encourages scientific exploration. Congratulations to all the winners!

Central High Cheer Team Attends NCA Camp


More news to cheer about at Central literally!  The Little Rock Central High School cheer team recently attended the NCA Camp and performed exceptionally well! Our student-athletes put in a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication, and it truly showed in their performances. We couldn't be prouder of our cheerleaders for representing their school and district with such grace and athleticism. Congratulations on a job well done!

Special shout out to Jacob Plank for winning top gun in tumbling, and Amya Norfleet, Jacob Plank, Layla Davis, Sydni Saine, Arden Robinson, Dcaden Burns, and Avery Smith for their placement as NCA All-American Cheerleaders, as well as seniors Arden, Sydni, Avery, and Dcaden for their invitation to try out for NCA next year!

Great job, Tigers!

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.


Pitch Perfect Competition

Make Sure You Join Mosaic Templars' 14th Annual Juneteenth Celebration 


For 14 years, The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center has celebrated Juneteenth right in the heart of Little Rock at Historic W. 9th Street. June 17, 2023, MTCC will host this FREE day-long event featuring activities, vendors, food, arts, and entertainment for the whole family! Juneteenth in Da Rock is Arkansas' largest Juneteenth celebration, boasting over 5000 attendees from across the state, with hundreds of participating vendors, performers, and sponsors.

Just a Few More Days to Catch Clyde's
at the Rep
Featuring Hollywood Actress and
Arkansas' Own Phyliss Yvonne Stickney


Click here to order tickets:  https://www.therep.org/clydes/tickets/

Bluey's Big Play


Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 7:00 PM
Thursday, July 13, 2023, 10:00 AM

Grab the sticky geckos, break out the duck cakes, and alert the gIt'sies! It’s time to meet the much-loved Heeler family, coming to Robinson Center July 12-13, 2023, with the Bluey liBluey's, Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show! The Emmy® Award-winning animated preschool series on Disney Junior, Disney Channel, and Disney+" will be “taking the show on"the road” to the Robinson Center.

39th Annual Pops on the River - July 4



Pops on the River, presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, features music from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestrkids'od, kids' activities, and fireworks! Click here for additional info.


See artporter.org for more. 

Here's Where Little Rock's Cool Meter
Goes Way Up!  

Jumpstart your weekends every Friday in June with an evening of art, fun, games, and music on the lawn at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
Games include Baggo, bocce ball, or Giant Jenga; plus - you can enjoy free outdoor art classes led by an instructor from the Wingate Art School.  Space is limited for the approximately 30-minute class. Supplies are included.
The cherry on top of the sundae: you can visit the galleries or pick up some gifts from the Museum Store.  AMFA stays open until 8 p.m.
Need to Freshen Up a Bit?
You Can Do It Every Saturday...
Now in its 48th season, the Little Rock Farmers Market is back in full swing.  Located in the River Market Pavillion, the market is open each Saturday through Labor Day weekend, come rain or shine, 
7 a.m. - 2 p.m.