August is:
LRSD Schools Named Finalists in Best of the Best Awards
Several LRSD schools have been voted into the Top 5 of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s Best of the Best readers’ choice awards! Pulaski Heights Elementary, Don Roberts Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, Pinnacle View Middle, Forest Heights STEM Academy, and Little Rock Central High are all being recognized among the very best in Arkansas. You can vote daily through August 24 to help bring home the win for LRSD. Vote here.
The Arkansas Travelers are celebrating the legacy of the Little Rock Nine with a special tribute weekend. Fans can enjoy exclusive merchandise, concessions run by LR Central students, a performance by the Madrigal Singers, and recognition of the Tiger baseball team. Members of the Little Rock Nine will also be in attendance, making this a powerful celebration of history, community, and school pride. Tickets are available at travs.com/tickets.
It’s only the first week of school, but Gibbs Magnet School 5th graders are already thinking globally! Students welcomed guests from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, Vietnam, as well as our Rotary Club partners. The visit gave students a chance to exchange questions, stories, and smiles, proving once again that at Gibbs, the world is the student's classroom.
Watson Elementary’s Mrs. Charlotte Cook-Bomar, Gifted and Talented teacher, has been selected as the 2025 E. Paul Torrance Creativity Award recipient by the National Association for Gifted Children. Sponsored by the Future Problem-Solving Program International, this national award recognizes educators who make outstanding contributions to nurturing creativity in students. Mrs. Bomar’s work has inspired countless young learners to think critically, solve problems, and embrace innovation. She will be recognized at the NAGC Convention later this year, and we are proud to see her commitment to students and creativity spotlighted on a national stage.
History met innovation at Little Rock Central High School with the ribbon-cutting of its brand-new 67,000-square-foot Science Wing—the first new academic building on campus since 1927. The three-story facility features state-of-the-art labs, collaborative classrooms, a 200-seat lecture hall, and unique learning spaces designed to inspire the next generation of scientists. Guests, alumni, and community leaders joined students and staff to mark this exciting milestone in Central’s legacy. See event photos here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCrhUv.
A big thank you to all the amazing LRSD dads and father-figures who shared their photos in our Rock n’ Rollin’ into the New School Year contest! Your participation made this event fun and memorable. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winners of prizes like dinner at Rock-N-Roll Sushi, Razorback football tickets, a round of golf at the PG Bradford Tournament, and lunch with Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright. Join us in celebrating the father-figures who truly ROCK in LRSD!
The Little Rock School District recently celebrated its retirees with a special reception, honoring their years of service and dedication to students and families. The event was filled with gratitude, joy, and recognition for the lasting impact these staff members have made in our schools. LRSD extends a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Rene Julian and First Community Bank for their continued support and sponsorship of this meaningful celebration.
Over the weekend, the William H. Bowen School of Law made a meaningful difference at Dunbar Business, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship Magnet Middle School. From refreshing school spaces to showing genuine care for students and staff, their efforts left a lasting mark on the Dunbar community. LRSD is grateful for this partnership and the positive impact it has brought to the school.
After just the first week of school, the J.A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School team spent their Saturday working with Ms. Donna Smith from Crux Partners to sharpen instructional strategies. By rehearsing lessons and focusing on clear, bite-sized instruction, these dedicated educators are ensuring a strong start to the year and setting their scholars up for success.
.jpg)
The Little Rock School District has introduced its official podcast, Wright On Education, hosted by Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright. This monthly series aims to connect students, families, staff, and the community through real, timely conversations about the policies, people, and progress shaping LRSD. In the premiere episode, Dr. Wright is joined by two LRSD students to discuss the Bell-to-Bell No Cell Phone Act and the rollout of Yondr Pouches. The podcast is available on the LRSD YouTube channel, with plans to expand to additional streaming platforms. Community members are invited to submit questions for future episodes by emailing WrightOn@lrsd.org.
Starting this fall, LRSD is introducing the Sealed for Success campaign to support a more focused, distraction-free learning environment. In alignment with the upcoming “Bell to Bell, No Cell Act” going into effect statewide in 2025–2026, students will begin using Yondr pouches to securely store their phones and personal devices during the school day. This initiative helps students stay present, engaged, and ready to learn. Learn more here.
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")
Students, don’t forget to turn in your summer reading logs to your Library Media Specialist with your name on them! Every student who turns in a log will receive a prize, like a pencil, fidget spinner, or even a zoo pass. You’ll also be entered into raffles for awesome prizes like bikes and tickets to the Museum of Discovery. Plus, the classes, grade levels, or schools with the most logs turned in can win special rewards like pizza or ice cream parties and visits from the fire department or the zoo! They are due August 29.
Dozens of Little Free Library sites across Little Rock are ready for summer readers! Thanks to City Year Little Rock, many libraries have been freshly stocked with new books. Visit the Little Free Library website to find a location near you, pick up a great book, and feel free to leave one for others to enjoy. It’s a simple way to keep reading fun all year long!
We’re excited to share the August 2025 issue of HR Connection, your quarterly Human Resources newsletter! Inside this edition, you’ll find important updates, helpful reminders, and highlights celebrating the great work happening across LRSD. From key dates and policy updates to stories of transformation, this issue has something for everyone. Click this link to explore the full newsletter, and don’t forget to share your feedback!
Sealed for Success -
How You Can Help Our Students
Adjust to the New Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Act
The Little Rock School District has announced updated athletic season ticket pricing along with a brand-new Student Season Pass to make game attendance more affordable and accessible. For just $20 (middle school) or $25 (high school), students can attend all home games at their school throughout the year, excluding tournaments and playoff events. Additional season pass options for families and fans are also available, with tickets and passes now sold exclusively online through GoFan.
.png)
The Little Rock School District is now hiring bilingual teachers and staff, registered nurses, and special education teachers and staff. These full-time positions offer competitive salaries, health and retirement benefits, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students. Whether you’re passionate about education or healthcare, LRSD offers a supportive environment with great work hours and a dedicated team. Learn more and apply today at lrsd.schoolspring.com.
The Little Rock School District is excited to announce the continued partnership with Rock Region Metro, offering free transportation to all LRSD students and staff with a valid ID badge. This service includes access to all Rock Region buses and Metro Connect. Participants simply need to pick up a special sticker from their school office, which must be displayed on their ID badge. Stickers are updated twice a year, making it easier than ever for our LRSD family to get around the city. Learn more about routes and schedules at rrmetro.org.
The Little Rock School District is proud to pursue accreditation through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This recognition reflects LRSD’s commitment to high-quality early learning. Research shows that children in NAEYC-accredited programs are nearly twice as likely to be rated “proficient” or “school ready.” To learn more or enroll your child, visit www.LRSD.org/EarlyChildhood.
Great news! LRSD will offer free breakfast to all students and free lunch at nearly every school for the 2025-26 school year through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). No meal application is needed to receive free meals. However, families are encouraged to complete a household meal application at www.myschoolapps.com to qualify for other benefits like ACT/SAT fee waivers, college application discounts, and internet assistance. This important step helps ensure every student has access to nutritious meals and the support they need to succeed.
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!
Educators have an exciting opportunity to apply for grants of up to $5,000 to support classroom innovation, equity efforts, and professional development. The NEA Foundation offers Student Success Grants, Envision Equity Grants, and Learning and Leadership Grants. Educators are especially encouraged to apply for the Envision Equity category, which receives fewer applications. The deadline to apply is Monday, September 15, 2025. Visit neafoundation.org to learn more and submit your application.
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.
2025-26 Organizational Chart (Org Chart)
The Little Rock School District’s 2025 organizational chart, posted on the LRSD website, reflects our commitment to streamlined leadership, accountability, and student-focused support. This structure ensures every department works collaboratively to deliver high-quality services to our schools and families. See the full chart by clicking here:https://www.lrsd.org/page/organizational-chart.
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.
.png)
LRSD high school students can earn college credit through concurrent credit courses offered right on their school campus. With classes available in subjects like Science, English, Math, and History, students have a great opportunity to get ahead academically. Families are encouraged to speak with their school counselor or visit the LRSD Advanced Academics page at lrsd.org to learn more.
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/
Now running through August 24, 2025
The Arkansas Repertory Theatre has added four performances to its previously announced run of James Baldwin’s music-filled play, The Amen Corner. Performances will be held on Thursday, August 21 – Sunday, August 24. Tickets are available at TheRep.org or by calling The Rep’s Box Office at (501) 378-0405. Ticket prices range from $25 to $65, with discounts available for seniors, students, educators, and active military personnel.
The community is invited to Paws on the Promenade on Saturday, August 23, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Promenade at Chenal. Families and their furry friends can enjoy a pet walk (with a $5 or pet food donation), games, giveaways, free doggy treatments, and the chance to meet adoptable pups from Care for Animals. It’s a fun, pet-friendly morning for all ages!
Get ready for game day at the Red in the Rock Tailgate on Thursday, September 4, from 5–7 p.m. at Park Plaza Mall. This indoor pre-game celebration will feature delicious food from local favorites, drinks from top breweries and wineries, live entertainment, giveaways, and plenty of Razorback and Red Wolves pride. Whether you’re calling the Hogs or howling for the Wolves, it’s the perfect way to kick off football season in style!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 6, 2025, as the Arkansas Razorbacks take on the Arkansas State Red Wolves at War Memorial Stadium. Gates open at 2:30 p.m., with kickoff at 4 p.m. Fans can purchase tickets starting April 21, 2025, and enjoy all the excitement of this in-state showdown. Get your gear, grab your seatbacks, and be ready to cheer for your team in one of the season’s most anticipated matchups. Purchase tickets here.
Get ready to explore the flavors of Central Arkansas during Arkansas Foodbank Restaurant Weeks, September 5–12! Local restaurants will serve special menus and signature dishes, with proceeds supporting the Arkansas Foodbank’s fight against hunger. It’s a delicious way to try new spots, revisit favorites, and help your community - one bite at a time.
Get ready for smooth sounds and soulful vibes! Jazz in the Park is back this September! Held every Wednesday evening from 6:00–8:00 PM at the River Market Pavilions, this free, family-friendly concert series celebrates the heart of Little Rock’s local jazz and R&B talent. Bring a picnic, grab a drink to support music education, and enjoy the music under the stars. In case of rain, concerts move indoors to Ottenheimer River Market Hall.
September 2025 Lineup:
🎶 Sept 3 – Genine Latrice Perez & The Dizzy 7 Band
🎶 Sept 10 – Blu Jams and Co.
🎶 Sept 17 – Tonya Leeks
🎶 Sept 24 – Rodney Block Collective
Mark your calendar for Fiesta en SoMa 2025 on Friday, October 3, from 4–9 p.m. in Little Rock’s lively SoMa neighborhood. This family-friendly celebration of Latin American culture will feature live music, cultural dance performances, delicious food from local vendors, and the exciting 2nd Annual Tamale Taste-Off. With activities for all ages—including a kids’ zone—Fiesta en SoMa is the perfect way to enjoy a fall evening of community, culture, and fun.
The Little Rock Farmers Market has opened its doors for another season, welcoming visitors to the River Market with its farm-fresh produce, locally crafted foods, and handmade arts and crafts. As it has since 1996, the market invites SNAP beneficiaries, offering tokens purchasable on-site and participating in the Double Up Food Bucks program. Free parking, including spaces for seniors and handicapped individuals, ensures convenient access for all patrons.
No comments:
Post a Comment