April is:
National Volunteer Month
National Poetry Month
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
National Child Abuse Awareness Month
National Autism Awareness Month
Stress Awareness Month
Important Dates:
April 22: Board Work Session (6 p.m.)
April 23: School Bus Driver, Aide and Monitor Appreciation Day
April 24: Administrative Professional Appreciation Day
April 25: School Board Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
April 29-May 3: School Nutrition Employee Week
April 26: Parkview Community Celebration
April 29: Superintendent's Citation Program
Central High Celebration
May 6: Crystal Awards (Teacher/Employee of the Year)
May 6: Personnel Policy Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
May 7: National Teacher Appreciation Day
May 8: National School Nurse Appreciation Day
May 9: School Board Work Session (5:30 p.m.)
(May 17-18 Black Male Educator Summit)
LRSD/UA-Little Rock Partnership Means More Continuing Ed Opportunities for Employees
In a heartfelt celebration of community spirit and dedication, this year's Volunteers in Public Schools Evening for the Stars honored the remarkable contributions of volunteers, partners in education, and LRSD's dedicated volunteer employees. We extend our deepest gratitude to all those recognized for their unwavering support and commitment. A special shoutout goes to Tammy Blaylock and Jackie Merrell for orchestrating a truly memorable event. More than $22.5 Million worth of volunteer service hours were donated this past year.
LRCH Choirs Hit the High Notes, Dominating the WorldStrides Music Fest with Multiple Wins
Little Rock Central High Choirs achieved remarkable success at the WorldStrides Music Festival in St. Louis, clinching multiple awards and accolades. Their stellar performances captivated audiences and earned them top honors, including gold medals and prestigious Maestro Awards for outstanding soloists. From the stage to the awards ceremony, the LRCH Choirs showcased their talent, dedication, and passion for music, bringing pride to their school and community. Congratulations to the LRCH Choirs for their outstanding accomplishments.
Mabelvale Middle School's Gentlemen's Club recently enjoyed a visit to Philander Smith University, where they got a preview of college life. From learning about enrollment procedures to discovering financial aid options, these young scholars were introduced to continuing education opportunities. Guided by mentors and college officials, they explored campus departments and soaked up wisdom from an Admission Fair and Tour. Philander Smith's warm welcome, complete with cheerleaders and a lively step show, made for an unforgettable day.
Little Rock School District Honors Moms/Mother Figures with Moms Matter Luncheon
Little Rock School District showered love on moms and mother figures with a luncheon this week! It was a day filled with joy and appreciation, from exciting games to a delicious meal and fabulous prizes. It was also a day to honor these remarkable women for their invaluable contributions to shaping young lives. A huge thank you to all the moms and mother figures for everything you do!
Students and teachers from Parkview Magnet and Little Rock Central High Schools were honored with the 2024 Stephens Awards, sponsored by The City Education Trust. Notable student winners include Kadyn Loring from Parkview and Venkata Bhrugubanda from Central. Teachers Aminah Abdur-Rahim and Douglas Hammon were also recognized. Congratulations!
Ballet Arkansas joined forces with students from the Little Rock School District to ignite a passion for dance. Artists Layla Terrell and Matthew Larson-Arziari spent the winter and spring semesters working alongside students in the 21st Century Program at Chicot Elementary and Early Childhood Center. Through their dedication and expertise, Terrell and Larson-Arziari not only shared the joy of dance but also fostered valuable learning experiences for the students. This partnership exemplifies the power of partnerships and arts education in enriching the lives of young learners.
LR West High School's Speech and Debate team had a tremendous showing, with Caleb Bowman earning the State Championship title and top speaker honors. Isabella Dunkley also impressed, securing a Quarterfinalist position and landing third overall in Extemporaneous Speaking. Their success extended to the team level, with a victory in the one-minute team debate event showcasing their exceptional teamwork and skill. Congratulations to all on their remarkable achievements!
The pARTners After-school program at Stephens showcased the talents of the Stephens Elementary Stars as they enjoyed diverse art activities. From honing their skills in canvas illustrations to exploring film, acting, and music, these students demonstrated creativity and self-expression. The program's goal is to increase accessibility to after-school care while providing enriching arts experiences.
In a display of academic determination, Little Rock Central High School emerged victorious in the AGQBA 7A Quiz Bowl State Semi-Finals held at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. Facing off against several teams, the students showcased knowledge and teamwork in a winning streak. With this impressive performance, they have secured the coveted #1 spot for the upcoming Arkansas State Finals airing on AETN. Now, they are preparing to take on Rogers Heritage High School for the championship title! Good luck from you LRSD Family!
Speaking of Central High School Championships...
The deadline for STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GEAR has been extended! Don't miss out - get your orders in by April 21, 11:59pm. These high-quality shirts ship directly to you! Let's show our Tiger pride!
Grab your gear here: b-unlimited.com/collections/little-rock-central-high-school-basketball
Aidan Zhao earned the highest score in the region, and Yassin Bahgat earned the third-highest score. Aidan and Yassin moved on to the National Chemistry Olympiad Competition. Four Central students were honored this week at the American Chemical Society’s Annual Awards Banquet. Pictured are Farj Abdelayem (first place in Chemistry at the Arkansas State Science and Engineering Fair), Yassin Baghat (third place in the Chemistry Olympiad), Aidan Zhao (first place in the Chemistry Olympiad), and Siddharth Sridharan (first place in Biochemistry at the Arkansas State Science and Engineering Fair). Siddharth, along with six other Central students, will compete in the International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles in May. Your LRSD family is rooting for you!
LRSD Student and Staff Artwork Showcased Through 'The Creative Collective II'
at the Thea Foundation
The Creative Collective II at the Thea Foundation in North Little Rock presents an exciting showcase of over 70 pieces of artwork by faculty members and students from Parkview and Central High School. This vibrant exhibition celebrates the talent and creativity within our school community. Don't miss the chance to experience this inspiring collection on display until May 24th.
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Registration Now Open! Renowned Speaker Robert Jackson to Headline Inaugural Black Male Educator Summit
to the opening reception.
Application Deadline Extended
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A One-Night-Only Engagement at Carver
Drama teacher Deborah Ramsey says, "We believe that fostering a strong arts program not only enhances students' academic performance but also enriches their lives and nurtures their creativity. Your support and attendance would mean the world to us as we strive to cultivate a vibrant arts community within our school and district." Let's be sure to support these talented students!
Let's De-Stress Together During LRSD's Stress-Less Challenge
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.
Step into a world of wonder at the Lanterns at Wildwood Park for the Arts Festival this weekend, where illuminated woodland trails come alive with enchanting outdoor lights. Held annually in the spring at Wildwood Park for the Arts, this event blends captivating crafts and mesmerizing performing arts against the backdrop of Little Rock’s unique botanical gardens. Join in this time-honored tradition now through Saturday and witness the breathtaking display. Tickets for the event may be purchased online. HERE
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Jazz in the Park
Enjoy free live music at the last Jazz in the Park event this Wednesday, April 24th, in the River Market. Each Wednesday in April and September, the LRCVB hosts Jazz in the Park, much to the delight of those who appreciate the genre. And, yes, unless it's storming, they do have inclement weather contingency plans.
Alley at MuralFest
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The Downtown Little Rock Partnership is excited to bring the first-ever MuralFest to SoMa! Join them in downtown Little Rock's SoMa neighborhood to watch talented artists transform the space in the alley behind 1501 S. Main Street LIVE on May 4th. The event will be inside the footprint of 501Fest, which features live music, vendors, food trucks, and more!
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/.
Help Find the Cure at the 4th Annual
Be A Part of the Cure Walk
UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute is excited to celebrate its 4th annual Be A Part of the Cure Walk. Register today as an individual or create a team, share the information with your friends and family, and help us get the word out! Enjoy the Kids Discovery Zone, local entertainment, patient stories, the chance to win some great prizes (must be present to win), and walk for the cure along a 1k or 5k course. Complimentary food will be available. Experience a morning of fun and camaraderie on May 4th, 2024, at War Memorial Stadium. Gates open at 6:30am, with a special Survivor & Family “Seed of Hope, Gather & Celebrate” with light fare at 7:15 am and vendor booths. Get involved here!
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