Friday, June 7, 2024

Friday Highlights 6.7.24

  

June is:

National Safety Month
Men's Health Month
National Portuguese Heritage Month
National Caribbean-American Heritage Month
Pride Month
National Great Outdoors Month

Important Dates: 

June 10: Personnel Policy Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
June 13: School Board Work Session (5:30 p.m.)
June 14: Flag Day
June 16: Father's Day
June 19: Juneteenth (Schools and Offices Closed)
June 26: Rockefeller Early Childhood Center Ribbon-cutting Ceremony (10 a.m.)
June 27: School Board Meeting (5:30 p.m.)

Eight LRSD Students Earn Prestigious
National Merit Scholarships

The Little Rock School District is thrilled to announce that eight outstanding students from Little Rock Central High School are the latest round of honorees to be named National Merit Scholarship winners! These remarkable individuals have earned scholarships to pursue their dreams in fields such as law, medicine, and engineering. Akul Shrivastava was named a winner in April. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence.

Pinnacle View Middle School Teacher Wins 2024 "Sustain the Rock" Award

LRSD's Shelby Thompson from Pinnacle View Middle School was named among "Sustain the Rock" award recipients by Mayor Frank Scott, Jr., and the City of Little Rock's Sustainability Commission. These awards honor individuals, businesses, and organizations that positively impact sustainability through various initiatives. Thompson is being recognized for her work in urban agriculture. Her EAST program's projects include solar-powered electric chicken fencing, hydroponics, and composting, earning them the Arkansas School Garden of the Year award. Congratulations!

Arkansas Jazz Hall of Fame to Honor LRSD Educators in Induction Ceremony

Congratulations David Higginbotham, Dr. Irma "I.J." Routen, and Betty Sue Chandler Ward on their induction into the Arkansas Jazz Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes their significant contributions to jazz and their dedication to music education. Their passion and commitment have enriched the lives of countless students in the Little Rock School District. Thank you for all you do!

NBA Star Bobby Portis Jr. Visits Alma Mater - Hall STEAM Magnet High

NBA player and Hall STEAM Magnet High School alum Bobby Portis returned to the school to share off-season preparation tips with current players. His visit inspired and motivated the students, emphasizing the importance of training, discipline, and education. Thank you, Bobby, for giving back to our community and continuing to guide our athletes!

Enhancing Education: McDermott Elementary Receives Library Grant

McDermott Elementary School has been awarded the $5,000 Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries Grant, making it one of 200 schools from 40 states to receive this honor. This grant will be used to update and diversify their book and print collections, enhancing the learning experience for all students. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

LRSD Leaders Empower Change at the 2024 Community Schools Conference

Several Little Rock School and District leaders attended the 2024 Community Schools and Family Engagement Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, last month. This national event unites individuals who believe all children deserve a safe place to live and opportunities to learn and thrive. The leaders engaged in numerous learning and networking opportunities to enhance their understanding of family engagement, community schools, and whole-child strategies.

LRSD Father Participates in D-Day Ceremony in Normandy, France

This week, we remembered and honored the brave souls who took part in the D-Day invasion 80 years ago. In the photo, Air Force Pilot Colonel Marty Smith, whose daughter attends Little Rock Central High School, is flying the C-130 on the right over Normandy. He is paying tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. Photo Credit: NY Times


Eco-Chic: LRSD 6th Graders Wow in curbside Couture Fashion Show

Pinnacle View Middle School 6th graders showcased incredible creativity in the Curbside Couture Fashion Show! The students presented their sustainable designs, delivering a powerful message on environmental responsibility. Great job, students!

LRSD Summer School Credit Recovery Registration Now Open

Need to catch up on credits? We're excited to announce that registration for Summer School Credit Recovery is now open! Don't miss this opportunity to get back on track and excel in your studies. Visit our website at https://www.lrsd.org/o/lrsd/page/high-and-middle-summer-school-credit-recovery for more information and to sign up today.

LRSD 2024 Summer (SSO) Feeding Programs Locations and Times Announced

The Little Rock School District has released the 2024 Summer (SSO) Feeding Programs times and locations! We're dedicated to ensuring that every child has access to nutritious meals during the summer break. Check out the website on when and where these vital programs will be available in our community.


LRSD/UA-Little Rock Partnership Means Continuing Ed Opportunities for Employees

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/

Advanced Academics Seeking Input About Program Options and Support

LRSD Advanced Academics is seeking input about program options and support provided for students enrolled in gifted and talented, Pre-Advanced Placement, Advanced Placement, and Concurrent Credit options for the 23-24 school year. Your feedback and suggestions will be utilized to set program goals for the 24-25 school year. Thank you for taking a few moments to complete the following survey: https://forms.gle/rev7VvAuNtvCAhRc6

LRSD Announces Revised 2024-25 Calendar/ Employee Workday Resolution

A revised 2024-25 student calendar was approved during a recent Board of Education meeting, and it is pending final approval by the State Board of Education. Additionally, the LRSD Board has passed a resolution regarding compensation for employees affected by school closures due to inclement weather in the 2023-24 school year. Employees can find more details in the Superintendent's Memo or by contacting their supervisors or the LRSD Human Resources Department. Your support and patience are greatly appreciated as we navigate these critical processes together.

Unlocking Potential: Little Rock School District Offers More Opportunities for Kids

LRSD and Caissa Continue Second Phase oL.R.S.D.ecruitment/Retention Partnership

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, which 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 communications from LRSD.


Join the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center for their 15th Annual Juneteenth in Da Rock Event.

Get ready for a Juneteenth experience like no other at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center's 15th annual Juneteenth in Da Rock event on June 15, 2024. Located in Downtown Little Rock on Historic West 9th Street, this family-friendly celebration starts with a 5K walk/run through historical landmarks and concludes with captivating performances by local and national artists. Dive into the newly remodeled gallery for an immersive journey through the African American experience in Arkansas, explore the reimagined Kids Zone with S.T.E.A.M. activities, and soak in the arts, culture, and education at the indoor stage. Juneteenth in Da Rock 2024 promises an unforgettable celebration of heritage, creativity, and community.

Celebrate this Year's Juneteenth Arkansas Fest at the First Security Amphitheater

Another related festival is moving to a new location.  The Juneteenth Arkansas Festival is moving to the First Security Amphitheater for the first time. The festival will include a parade, carnival, live music, fireworks, and more! Since its establishment in 2020, the Juneteenth Arkansas Festival has promoted economic empowerment, Arkansas agriculture, education, community involvement, and a family-friendly environment. The festival will be held on Saturday, June 15th at 1 p.m.

Guitar Wars Competition Returns
to 
Little Rock 

Calling all guitar enthusiasts! Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 8, from 10 AM-5 PM at the CALS Ron Robinson Theater for the ultimate showdown of musical talent at Guitar Wars 2024. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned player, this event is for you. Registration is open until May 31. With categories for youth and adults and levels ranging from beginner to advanced, there's a spot for everyone. Don't miss out on the chance to showcase your skills and win fantastic prizes.

Miss Arkansas Crowning Gown Exhibit on Display at Old State House Museum


The Miss Arkansas Crown Gown Exhibit is back at the Old State House Museum and on exhibit. Be sure to drop by to see this amazing collection of gowns from the 'Forever Miss Arkansas' collection while you can, because they're on view now through Saturday, June 15, 2024.


Little Rock Farmer's Market Now Open
for its 50th Season

The Little Rock Farmers Market has opened its doors for its 50th season, welcoming visitors to the River Market with its farm-fresh produce, locally crafted foods, and handmade arts and crafts. Since 1996, the market has invited SNAP beneficiaries, offering purchasable tokens 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.

Little Rock Zoo to Display Dragon Kingdom!

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 natural world animals 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 the link: https://www.littlerockzoo.com/events/spring-break-2024/.




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