Friday, September 26, 2025

Friday Highlights 9.26.25

 

September is:
National Campus Safety Awareness Month
National School Success Month
Attendance Awareness Month
Better Breakfast Month
Hispanic Heritage Month
Self-Care Awareness Month
National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
National Blood Cancer Awareness Month
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National NICU Awareness Month
Baby Safety Month
National Service Dog Month

Important Dates: 
September 29: Superintendent's Citation Program (5:30 p.m.)
October 1-3: Check Us Out Tours
October 2: School Custodian Appreciation Day
October 6: Child Health Day
October 7: LRSD High School Recruitment Fair and Annual College Night
October 8:  Java with Jermall - Mann Magnet (7:45-8:45 a.m.)
October 9:  Special Board Meeting and Agenda Session (5:30 p.m.)
October 10: Work Day/Data Day (Students Out, Offices Open)
October 13-17: National School Lunch Week
October 13: Personnel Policy Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)

Congratulations to Parkview Students on 
Outstanding ACT Scores

Parkview students Harper Finn Avery and Caesar Angel Gomez-Campos have achieved remarkable accomplishments on the ACT. Harper earned an impressive score of 34 and was recognized as a National Merit Semifinalist, while Caesar achieved a perfect score of 36 and was recognized as a Commended Scholar. These outstanding results reflect their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to academic excellence.

Central High Speech and Debate Team 
Shines with Early Season Success

The Little Rock Central High School Speech & Debate Team is off to an incredible start in the 2025–26 season, showcasing talent and dedication on the national stage. Students earned top finishes across multiple events, advanced to final and semifinal rounds, and secured early bids to the prestigious Tournament of Champions. Senior Amol Kattaria was also honored with the Jonathan Brody Service to Debate Award, recognizing his perseverance and leadership, a rare and distinguished achievement. These accomplishments solidify Central’s place among the top programs in the nation and make the entire LRSD community proud.

Speaking of Central... Students Take Flight 
During First Every Fly Day

This morning, Central High School hosted its first-ever Fly Day, giving students a hands-on look at the future of drone technology. Presented in partnership with the City of Little Rock and Grace 3 Technologies in partnership with U.S.-based company Skydio, the event showcased how drones are used in fields like public safety, construction, and STEM careers. Students even had the chance to pilot drones, seeing firsthand how innovation and teamwork prepare them for the opportunities of today and tomorrow. For great photos, click here:  https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCvwwP

LRSD Schools Earn Top Honors in Best of the Best Awards

The results are in, and LRSD schools are representing in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s Best of the Best readers’ choice awards! Little Rock Central High School earned First Place in the Best Public High School category, while Pinnacle View Middle School and Jefferson Elementary School were both named Runners-Up in their categories. Congratulations to our students, staff, and families for this outstanding recognition!

Little Rock School District Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, the Little Rock School District celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month. We honor the history, culture, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino students, families, and staff who make our schools stronger every day.

Little Rock Southwest Showcases Hispanic Heritage 
During Annual Celebration

Little Rock Southwest High School came alive this afternoon with music, dance, and cultural pride during the 4th Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration. Organized by World Languages Department Chair Ms. Millicent Cunningham, the event featured vibrant performances of song and dance, a quinceañera presentation, a flag display, and the unforgettable sounds of Mariachi America. Student leaders Yuridia Avelino and Alexis Guzman hosted the program, with a special performance by Marili Almaraz. The celebration honored Hispanic traditions and stories, bringing students, staff, and community together in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month.


Hall-West AP Literature Students Experience 
"A Raisin in the Sun" Live on Stage

Hall-West School of Innovation AP Literature and Composition students had the opportunity to attend a powerful performance of A Raisin in the Sun this past weekend at the Actor’s Theatre in downtown Little Rock. The experience allowed students to connect classroom learning with live theater, bringing the themes and characters of this classic play to life in a meaningful and memorable way.

Forest Park Elementary Celebrates 
Patriotic Day with Songs and Tributes

This morning, Forest Park Elementary students proudly dressed in red, white, and blue for their annual Patriotic Day celebration. The event featured patriotic songs and heartfelt tributes honoring our country, military members, and public service officials. Held in conjunction with Constitution Week, the ceremony reflects LRSD’s commitment to fostering pride, unity, and respect in the next generation. Families and community members gathered on the west side of campus near the pavilion to share in this special tradition. For more great photos of today's ceremony, click here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCvoM2

Episode 3 of Wright on Education to Explore 
Why Families Stay or Leave LRSD
Dropping Next Friday

In Episode 3 of Wright On Education, Dr. Jermall Wright, Superintendent of LRSD, dives into a topic close to every parent’s heart: decisions about where your child goes to school. Hear from a current parent, a former parent, and a grandparent who share their unique perspectives on why families stay, why some choose to leave, and what these choices teach us about improving schools for all students. Don’t miss this insightful conversation, watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts next week when the episode drops. Have questions or ideas for future episodes? Email us at WrightOn@LRSD.org!

Wing Wednesday Brings Flavor and Fun to LRSD Cafeterias

The Little Rock School District’s weekly Wing Wednesday is quickly becoming a favorite among students. From classic buffalo to lemon pepper, students are enjoying a variety of wing flavors that add excitement to their lunch experience. THV11 recently visited Forest Heights STEM Academy to capture the fun, highlighting how this tasty tradition is bringing smiles, energy, and community to cafeterias across the district.

LRSD Celebrates Progress in Student Achievement and Growth

The Little Rock School District is proud to share encouraging results from the 2025 ATLAS assessments, which show measurable gains in student achievement and a decrease in the number of chronically underperforming schools. Over the past three years, LRSD has cut the number of F-rated schools by 50% and increased the number of B- and C-rated schools, reflecting stronger teaching, learning, and student growth. While the journey is ongoing, these results highlight the power of collective effort, innovation, and belief in every child’s potential.

Students Plan for the Future at Parkview College Night

Parkview welcomed families for College Night, where representatives from Hendrix College, Lyon College, Ouachita Baptist University, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, the University of Central Arkansas, and the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville shared information about academic programs, campus life, and admissions. The event provided students and parents with an early glimpse into the opportunities that await them after graduation and a chance to begin shaping their plans for the future.

Save the Date for LRSD's 51st Annual College Night 
and High School Recruitment Fair
In addition to College Night, LRSD's High School Recruitment Fair will also be held at the Jack Stephens Arena on October 7th.  Stay tuned for additional details.  

Hamilton Students to Present Misunderstood Showcase

Hamilton Learning Academy will host the Misunderstood Showcase on Thursday, October 2, at 5:30 p.m. This student-led event will feature poetry, art, music, and fashion, giving young people the opportunity to express their creativity, share their stories, and challenge stereotypes. The showcase is a celebration of resilience and talent, highlighting the voices and vision of Hamilton’s students.

Author Pat Becker Inspires Young Readers at Bale Elementary

Bale Elementary students had an exciting visit from local actress and author Pat Becker, who supports LRSD’s city-wide literacy initiative, Reading In The Rock. Ms. Becker donated $500 worth of new books to help students build their home libraries and ignite a lifelong love of reading. Her generosity brings us closer to our goal of ensuring every PreK-5th grader experiences the joy and power of books.

Storytime with Pastors Kicks Off 
for the Year at Mabelvale Elementary

The first Story Time with Pastors of 2025 event took place at Mabelvale Elementary this week. Pastors from Central Arkansas visited classrooms to share stories and inspire students through the joy of reading. This meaningful program, coordinated by the Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) initiative, will continue rotating through schools across the district throughout the year. For more great photos, click here:  https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCvgq5

McDermott Elementary Celebrates
Record-Breaking 
Book Fair and Grandparents Day

McDermott Elementary’s fall Scholastic Book Fair was a huge success, thanks to a generous $3,500 donation from Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield and an additional $500 from Restoration Ministries Christian Fellowship. Every student had the opportunity to select books of their own, making this the largest-grossing Book Fair in the school’s history. BCBS volunteers also helped bring Grandparents Day to life, assisting with the Fair, welcoming more than 150 guests, setting a new attendance record, and capturing special memories with students and their grandparents. The school extends heartfelt thanks to BCBS and Restoration Ministries for supporting Reading in the Rock.

Building a Culture of Reading:
How You Can Help

This summer, Reading in the Rock installed a dozen bookshelves in community spaces across Little Rock, from museums and churches to barbershops, giving students and families greater access to books. They’re looking to expand even further, but they need your help! If you have a bookshelf in good condition that you’re not using, consider donating it. Ideal shelves are around 3 feet tall, but all sizes are welcome. Your contribution can help more Little Rock residents discover the joy of reading. Parents and guardians are reminded that just 20 minutes of reading each day can make a big difference in a child’s learning journey.

Friday Night Lights: 
LRSD Teams Back in Action!

It’s another exciting week of high school football in the Little Rock School District! Central takes on Bryant, Hall faces Riverview, Parkview battles Hot Springs, and Southwest goes up against Conway. Let’s pack the stands and cheer on our student-athletes!

LRSD Introduces Affordable Student 
Season Passes for 2025-2026

A reminder: updated athletic season ticket pricing along with a brand-new Student Season Pass now available 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.

LRSD Updates Game Day Guidelines

The Little Rock School District has introduced new game day guidelines to ensure a safe and family-friendly atmosphere at athletic events. Updates include earlier ticket sales closing, new entry requirements for students, and enforcement of the clear bag policy. For a full list of requirements, visit https://www.lrsd.org/article/2407197.

LRSD Announces 2025 Flu Clinic Schedule

The Little Rock School District announces its annual school flu clinics, which will be held at all LRSD school sites. The clinics are hosted in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Health. The clinics provide a convenient opportunity for students to receive a vaccine free of charge. Only students with completed paperwork that includes a signed ADH consent and the school district FERPA consent will be able to receive their flu shot. To view the full list of clinics and their dates, click the following link: https://aptg.co/V1yxmX.

Applications Open for One Korean Scholarship Foundation

High school seniors and college students are invited to apply for the 2025 One Korean Scholarship Foundation awards. Each scholarship is valued at $1,000, and recipients will be recognized at the annual banquet on December 13, 2025. Applications are due by October 31, 2025. For eligibility details and requirements, visit the application link here.

LRSD Launches October Staff Wellness Sessions

This October, the LRSD Culture, Climate, and Well-Being Department will host a series of staff wellness sessions focused on sustainable self-care. Each week, participants can easily integrate practical tools, including mindfulness and stress management, into their daily routines, fostering social connections. These sessions are designed to support educators and staff in prioritizing well-being and creating a personalized self-care plan.

LRSD Seeks Exceptional Leaders

The Little Rock School District is building its leadership team and is now accepting applications for the Building Leaders Pool. Positions include principals and assistant principals for elementary, middle, and high schools. LRSD is seeking passionate, student-focused leaders who are ready to inspire excellence, close opportunity gaps, and support both students and staff. Interested candidates can apply online at www.LRSDjobs.org.

LRSD's Latest HR Connection

Reminder - the August 2025 issue of HR Connection, the quarterly Human Resources newsletter is still available! 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!

LRSD is Hiring: Join Our Team!

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.

Sealed for Success - How You Can Help Our Students
Adjust to the New Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Act

Special thanks to our Department of Wellness for sharing these important tips!

LRSD Partners with Rock Region Metro for Free Transportation

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.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage in Downtown 
Little Rock with River Market Live!

The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, in partnership with Plaza Frida, invites the community to the River Market Pavilions on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 5–9 p.m. for River Market Live! – Hispanic Heritage Celebration. This free, family-friendly event will showcase the vibrant culture of Little Rock’s Hispanic community with live performances, dancing, delicious food and drinks, local vendors, fun games, and more. Bring your friends and family and enjoy an evening filled with music, flavor, and celebration!

Calling All Book Lovers!
Here's the Festival Just for You

Click on link below for full program about the annual festival:

https://cals.org/six-bridges-book-festival/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2025/09/CALS_2025_SixBridgesBookFestival_ProgramGuide.pdf

📚 You’re Invited!
The Main Library reopens Monday, September 29, with a Grand Reopening Celebration on Saturday, October 4, 9 AM-4 PM. Bring the whole family for a day full of activities, games, entertainment, food, and fun as the community celebrates the return of the Main Library!

Serve the Rock Brings Food, Fun, and 
Community Service to Dickey-Stephens Park

The Little Rock Regional Chamber’s annual Serve the Rock returns for its 14th year on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 5–7 p.m. at Dickey-Stephens Park. This exciting community event gives attendees the chance to meet local nonprofit organizations, explore volunteer opportunities, and enjoy the lively Battle of the Banks Backyard Grill Off, where local banks compete for the best backyard bites. With food, fun, and meaningful connections, Serve the Rock celebrates the people and organizations working to strengthen our region.

Laugh Out Loud with Spamilton: An American Parody

Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. when Spamilton: An American Parody takes the stage at UA–Pulaski Tech’s Center for Humanities and Arts. This fast-paced, hilarious spoof of Broadway’s biggest hit is filled with sharp humor, energetic musical numbers, and witty pop culture nods that will delight theater lovers and comedy fans alike. Guests can also enjoy dinner and light concessions for a full night of entertainment. Get tickets here.

International Greek Food Festival Returns 
with Flavor, Tradition, and Fun

The award-winning International Greek Food Festival is back on October 3–4, 2025, offering authentic handmade Greek food, pastries, and a taste of cultures from around the world. As the largest ethnic festival in Arkansas, this two-day event at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church brings together faith, family, and community with delicious cuisine, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun. With free admission, parking, and trolley service, it’s the perfect way to celebrate heritage, food, and friendship while supporting a tradition that has thrived for more than 40 years.

Fiesta en SoMa 2025 Brings Music, Food, 
and Culture to Little Rock

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.

Make Plans to Attend the Hillcrest HarvestFest

Get ready for one of Little Rock’s most anticipated fall traditions, Hillcrest HarvestFest 2025! Returning for its 31st year, this all-day neighborhood celebration takes over Kavanaugh Boulevard on Saturday, October 4, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Festivalgoers can enjoy live music on the main stage, cheer on furry friends in the popular Dog Show, and let kids explore a special play zone. With something for everyone, HarvestFest continues to bring the community together for a day of music, food, and family fun.  Stop by to see us at LRSD's booth!

Celebrate Culture and Cuisine at the Turkish Food Festival

The Turkish Food Festival returns to Little Rock on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1501 Market Street. Guests can enjoy a full day of authentic Turkish food, vibrant cultural displays, and live entertainment that showcases the rich traditions of Turkey. With delicious bites, sweet desserts, and fun activities for all ages, this festival offers something for everyone. Bring your family and friends to experience the warmth, flavor, and hospitality of Turkish culture right here in the heart of Little Rock.

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