May 2: School Lunch Hero Day
Central High School junior Ava Kate White has been chosen to represent Arkansas at the 2025 Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference in Washington, D.C. This program selects just one student per state to spend five days learning from top journalists, touring the capital, and exploring the future of journalism. Ava Kate will also receive a $1,000 college scholarship as part of the experience. Congratulations, Ava Kate!
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Congratulations to Derrick Collier, an 11th-grade student at Little Rock Southwest High School, for winning gold at the Little Rock NAACP ACT-SO competition! His outstanding contemporary piano solo earned him top honors. Derrick will represent LRSD, the Little Rock Chapter of the NAACP, and Southwest High School at the ACT-SO National Finals this July in Charlotte, NC. We are proud to cheer him on as he competes among the best students in the nation!
The LR Southwest High School “Smoove Groove” Jazz Ensemble earned top honors at the Arkansas Jazz Education State Jazz Festival, receiving Superior Ratings (First Division) for their outstanding performance. This historic achievement makes them the first school in LRSD history to earn First Division plaques in Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble. Congratulations to everyone for this incredible accomplishment!
LRSD’s Volunteers in Public Schools (ViPS) hosted its annual An Evening for the Stars this week. The event celebrated the outstanding individuals and organizations who give their time and heart to support LRSD students and schools. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 ViPS Jane Mendel Award, which was presented to Rachel Knox for her extraordinary, district-wide impact and years of dedicated service. Aaron Lubin was also recognized with the 2025 Champion Award for his outstanding leadership and advocacy as a volunteer. From community partners to dedicated parents, alumni, and student volunteers, this year’s honorees truly represent the spirit of service. Find the full list of those honored on our website, lrsd.org.
Congratulations to Erica Moore, Lead Senior School Counselor at Little Rock Central High School, for being named the Arkansas School Counseling Association’s High School Counselor of the Year! With 20 years of dedicated service, Ms. Moore has helped increase graduation rates and improve student engagement. She is now a finalist for the State Counselor of the Year award. We are proud of her outstanding work and leadership!
Students from Hall-West High School of Innovation earned multiple awards at the Arkansas Young Artists Association State Show, competing against hundreds from across the state. From digital art to photography and sculpture, their creativity and talent stood out. Their work will be featured at the Hall-West Spring Art Show on May 1st—everyone is invited to come celebrate our amazing student artists!
Congratulations to Pinnacle View Middle School students Jake Hu, Krish Karkera, Jazmine Khan, and Anay Pandit for being named recipients of the National Junior Honor Society Outstanding Achievement Award! Out of just 500 students selected nationwide, four are from PVMS. Each student will receive $500 in a 529 college savings account in recognition of their excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.
Several students from Mabelvale Middle School will represent Arkansas at the National History Day Competition this June at the University of Maryland! After months of hard work and research, these students earned this national honor with an outstanding project. Congratulations to these students and good luck at nationals! If you would like to help send them to Maryland, you can donate here.
At last night’s School Board Meeting, State Representative Denise Ennett presented two special resolutions in recognition of National Library Week. One honored the vital work of LRSD librarians in supporting students and schools. The second resolution celebrated Ms. Linda Neal—head librarian for LRSD and president of the Arkansas Association of Instructional Media—for her outstanding leadership and dedication to library services across the district. The district is proud to celebrate and support the essential contributions of its library professionals.
Every child deserves access to books that spark imagination and inspire a lifelong love of reading. That’s the focus of the Reading in the Rock initiative, combined with improving literacy rates - in partnership with the City of Little Rock. The goal is to provide elementary students with books over spring break and into the summer, helping to build home libraries and prevent the summer slide. The community is encouraged to help us provide more books by making a financial donation. No amount is too small—every contribution helps put books in the hands of our students. Thank you in advance for your support!
here is the kickoff news conference:
or Mail a check to:
The Arkansas Community Foundation
5 Allied Drive, Suite 51110, Building 5, 11th Floor
Little Rock, AR 72202
(Memo: "LRSD Promise for the Future Fund")
Gibbs Magnet School proudly hosted 17 students from Tennoji High School in Osaka, Japan, for a special day of cultural exchange and global learning. The visit began with a warm welcome from our 1st graders singing in multiple languages, followed by thoughtful gifts from our Mini UN. Students shared songs, language, and the art of origami, making it a memorable celebration of friendship and creativity. A big thank-you to our community sponsors who helped make the day so special!
Watson Elementary brought Earth Day to life with a full day of hands-on activities and lessons about conservation, wildlife, and the environment. With support from over 50 volunteers and partners—including the Little Rock Zoo, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Heifer International, and more—students explored pollinators, water systems, native plants, and the role they play in protecting our planet. A big thank-you to GT teacher Ms. Charlotte Bomar for organizing such an inspiring day of learning!
Pre-K3 students at Rockefeller Early Childhood Center ended their insect unit with a fun, hands-on family activity. Students and their families created edible insect snacks while enjoying stories, practicing early math, and learning all about ants, butterflies, bees, and more. It was a sweet and educational way to celebrate their buggy adventure!
Chicot Elementary’s 3rd–5th grade scholars were ready to show what they know on the ATLAS test! To build excitement and confidence, students took part in a spirited parade. The event also featured a cheer performance, a student-led program, and words of encouragement from Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright. Go students!
LRSD is committed to providing students with more choices to help them thrive. From innovative career and technical programs to strong academics and arts, LRSD is opening doors to a brighter future. Watch our new video to see how LRSD is preparing students for success—no matter their path!
Metro Career-Tech Center’s Culinary Arts students invite you to enjoy "A Culinary Experience" on April 30 at 5:30 PM. This special event will feature a 3-course meal prepared and served by students from Central, Parkview, and Southwest High Schools as part of their final practicum. Tickets are $40 per person, and seating is limited. Reserve your spot here: clicking here.
Show your team spirit with our One Team One Dream short-sleeve shirts! Available in red, green, gray, and pink, these shirts are a great way to represent LRSD. Click the highlighted links to order yours today!
The LRSD Professional Development Department invites YOU to join the April STRESS-LESS Challenge! This month, prioritize self-care and wellness with daily tips and activities designed to help you de-stress. The April Stress-Less Challenge Calendar is filled with daily ideas to keep you on track, PLUS Flex PD sessions focused on wellness! Let’s make April a month of mindfulness, movement, and motivation. Together, we can stress less!
Through Arkansas School Choice
Looking for a school district where your child can thrive from infancy through graduation? It’s ONE-STOP shopping at the Little Rock School District! From award-winning academics and cutting-edge STEM programs to championship-winning athletics and vibrant arts opportunities—LRSD has it all!
Join the One Team, One Dream movement and discover why LRSD is the best choice for your family. School Choice Enrollment is happening now through May 1st! Don’t wait—explore your options at LRSD and secure your seat today for the kind of programs you WON’T find anywhere else!
Visit our website or call us at 501-447-2950 to learn more. More opportunities for kids, it’s what sets Little Rock School District apart!
School Choice applications are now open for LRSD’s award-winning Early Childhood Program! Our Pre-K programs offer certified teachers, age-appropriate learning activities, and full-day sessions that include breakfast, snacks, and lunch. Families living outside the district can apply through the Arkansas School Choice Act. Visit LRSD.org/Pre-K to apply by May 1, 2025, and give your child a strong start!
Looking for a flexible, innovative learning option? The LRSD Virtual Academy offers rigorous, guided, and independent learning experiences. Students can explore a variety of electives, join extracurricular activities, and even participate in sports. Apply through the Arkansas School Choice Act by May 1, 2025, at LRSD.org/virtual!
The Little Rock School District invites non-profits to join as Community Service-Learning partners. With community service hours now a graduation requirement for Arkansas high school students, LRSD aims to connect students with meaningful volunteer opportunities. Non-profit organizations can apply to become approved partners, allowing students to support their events and initiatives. Apply today at lrsd.org/community-service-learning or contact Stefanie Vestal at Stefanie.Vestal@lrsd.org for more information.
Community Report?
Did you see LRSD's latest Community Report? It features lots of LRSD highlights and the
2023-34 annual report. Read here.
ESS is now hiring substitute teachers to help support student success in the Little Rock School District. With flexible schedules, no nights or weekends, and ongoing training, ESS offers great opportunities for those looking to make a difference. Apply now at ESS.com!
If you are a family in transition, whether staying with friends, in a shelter, motel, or other temporary locations, your child may qualify for services under the McKinney-Vento Act. LRSD provides resources like immediate school enrollment, transportation, and educational support to help ensure your child’s uninterrupted learning. For assistance, contact one of our liaisons or complete the Residency Form.
The Little Rock School District offers a robust Advanced Placement (AP) program, allowing students to take college-level courses in high school. With 38 courses across 20 subjects, students can earn college credit by scoring 3 or higher on the national AP exams. AP classes not only provide academic challenges but also enhance college applications.
LRSD supports gifted and talented students beyond elementary school through advanced class offerings, monthly affective needs meetings, and competitions. For more information, contact your school's Gifted Facilitator or visit the LRSD Advanced Academics webpage.
The Little Rock School District is excited to announce a new partnership with UA Little Rock to streamline the college admissions process for our students. This collaboration offers waived application fees, direct transcript submissions, and automatic financial aid consideration, making it easier than ever for LRSD seniors to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals. Learn more about this fantastic opportunity here: https://ualr.edu/admissions.
LRSD is excited to partner with UA-Little Rock to provide opportunities for our employees to start or finish an undergraduate degree while continuing their careers. Click on the link below to learn more.
https://ualr.edu/admissions/little-rock-school-district/
Hadestown, the Tony Award-winning musical, is coming to Little Rock’s Robinson Center from April 25-27, 2025. This stunning production brings to life the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone with an innovative blend of folk, jazz, blues, and gospel music. Known for its powerful storytelling and mesmerizing performances, Hadestown takes audiences on a journey to the underworld that is both timeless and fresh. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of the most celebrated musicals of our time right here in Little Rock. Get your tickets today for a night of unforgettable theater!
A Midsummer Night's Dream
Join Ballet Arkansas on April 26th for a magical performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set to Felix Mendelssohn’s iconic score. Experience Shakespeare’s timeless tale of love, mischief, and enchanted forests brought to life by a community cast of talented dancers. Don’t miss this beautiful display of romance, comedy, and magic. Get tickets here.
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Join the Little Rock Black Nurses Association of Arkansas for their Inaugural Community Health Fair and Baby Shower on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at The Watershed in Little Rock. The event will offer valuable health information, screenings, and resources for families, including mental health support, BMI checks, CPR info, and baby shower celebrations.
Wrap up National Volunteer Week by giving back to Little Rock at Impact The Rock: A Day of Unity & Service on April 26, 2025, at 9 A.M.! Join neighbors and friends to beautify parks, clean up streets, care for animals, and strengthen our city through meaningful projects across all seven wards. Whether you join a planned project, create your own, or work in your adopted area, your efforts will make a lasting impact. Let’s come together to serve, connect, and celebrate the power of community!
Join the Little Rock community for Jazz in the Park, a free concert series held every Wednesday in April and September at the River Market Pavilions. Experience a vibrant mix of jazz and R&B performances by local talent, featuring everything from smooth vocals to powerful instrumental solos. Bring your family, friends, and pets for a relaxed evening of great music, food, and drinks. With proceeds benefiting the Art Porter Music Education scholarship fund, it's a perfect way to enjoy soulful sounds while supporting local artists.
April 16 – Jacksonville High School Jazz Band, Parkview High School Jazz Band, Southwest High School Jazz Band
April 23 – Dino D and the D Train
April 30 – DeeDee Jones
May 7 – The Rod P Outfit
Concerts run from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the River Market Pavilions or First Security Amphitheater. In case of rain, the concerts will move to Ottenheimer River Market Hall.
Join us for 501FEST, a vibrant celebration of the spirit and energy that powers our community! On May 2-3rd in the River Market District, 501FEST brings together families and friends for an exciting weekend of live performances, local vendors, delicious food, and family-friendly activities. This annual festival, recognized as 501 Day by city officials, not only showcases local talent and entrepreneurship but also supports positive change in central Arkansas.
Head to War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock on Saturday, May 3rd, for the “Be a Part of the Cure Walk,” a community event raising funds and awareness for cancer research in Arkansas. Online registration closes at 6:30 p.m. on May 2nd, and in-person sign-ups begin at 6:30 a.m. on event day. Whether you walk, donate, or form a team, every step helps bring us closer to a cure!
Mark your calendar for the Central Arkansas Child Care & Family Expo on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in Little Rock. This free, family-friendly event brings together early childhood professionals, families, and community partners for a day full of crafts, activities, educational sessions, and valuable resources. Everyone is welcome to come celebrate the joy of learning and connect with local support services!
Since joining LRSD, Dr. Hayes has earned multiple degrees, always leading by example as a lifelong learner.
