Friday, November 8, 2024

Friday Highlights 11.8.24

 

November is:
National Family Literacy Month
National Scholarship Month
National Adoption Month
Inspirational Role Models Month
PTA Healthy Lifestyles Month
National Gratitude Month
National Career Development Month
Military Family Month
National Native American Heritage Month
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
National Stomach Cancer Awareness Month
National Diabetes Awareness Month
National Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Important Dates: 
November 8: Professional Development (Students Out/Offices Open)
November 11: Veterans Day
November 12: LR PTA Council Meeting (11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)
NO November 18: Superintendent's Citation Program (Moved to December)
November 19: ViPS Jane Mendal Reading Day
November 21: School Board Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
November 25-29: Thanksgiving Break
December 2: Classes Resume
December 2-13: Open Enrollment

Central High and Hall-West High of Innovation Recognized on AP School Honor Roll

Congratulations to Little Rock Central High School for earning a Silver distinction and Hall-West High School of Innovation for receiving a Bronze distinction on the AP® School Honor Roll! This recognition highlights each school’s dedication to expanding access to advanced coursework and fostering a college-going culture. The AP Honor Roll acknowledges schools that successfully support students in taking AP courses, scoring high on exams, and preparing for college success.

LRSD Students Engage in Hands-On 
Election Day Learning

Election Day wasn’t just for adults this year—LRSD students took part in mock elections and voting activities across several campuses! From choosing student government representatives to casting votes in creative mock elections, our students had hands-on experiences that brought civic engagement to life. 

Hall-West Debate Team Earns Top Honors 
and State Championship Bid

Hall-West High School of Innovation seniors Ian Ratcliff and Joshua Morehart earned top speaker awards at the recent debate tournament hosted by LR Central. Their standout performance at this first competition of the season secured them a bid to the Arkansas State Championship. This achievement motivates them and prepares them for even more success in upcoming tournaments.

Don Roberts Elementary Students Crowned 
Little Miss and Little Mister UAPB

Don Roberts Elementary students Kyndal Brasfield and Kayson Jefferson were recently crowned Little Miss and Little Mister UAPB at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Coronation Ball. They will represent UAPB at sports events, parades, and other appearances throughout the year. Congratulations to these young leaders!

3rd Annual KranksGiving Battle of the Bands
Shines Despite the Storm

The 3rd Annual KranksGiving Battle of the Bands was an unforgettable event, packed with talent, teamwork, and resilience! Despite unexpected weather challenges, the bands, dancers, and volunteers at Little Rock Southwest High School came together to make the night a success. Special thanks go to the band boosters, administration, community, and guest performers who ensured the event ran smoothly indoors. Congratulations to all participants and winners, especially those who took home top trophies in their categories. This year’s battle was an incredible display of dedication and talent!

Otter Creek Students Take the Stage at the 
Arkansas Music Educators Association Convention

Nine talented students from Otter Creek Elementary recently performed in a 120-piece choir at the Arkansas Music Educators Association convention in Conway. Their dedication and hard work made for an impressive performance, and we’re proud of their achievement!

Carver STEAM Third Graders Explore the Universe at the UCA Planetarium

Carver STEAM Magnet Elementary third-grade students had an exciting adventure at the UCA Planetarium in Conway. They explored constellations, learned about the mysteries of space, and gained a deeper appreciation for the universe around them.

Get Into the Holiday Spirit with the 37th Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza

Join the fun at the 37th Annual Gingerbread Extravaganza on Dec. 8 at the Arkansas State Capitol! Students in Pre-K–5th grade can enter the Holiday Coloring Contest by Dec. 1, and grades K–12 can join the Gingerbread House Decorating Competition by Dec. 5. More info: www.treatmenthomes.org.

Discover Gibbs Elementary at 
 Open House Event

Stephens Elementary to Host School 
Thanksgiving Connection Event

Check Out Little Rock School-Based 
Health Clinic's November Newsletter
LRSD Annual School Flu Clinics Continue

The Little Rock School District, in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Health, is hosting its annual flu clinics at all LRSD schools. Students can receive the flu vaccine free of charge, but only with completed paperwork, including signed ADH and FERPA consent forms. These clinics provide a convenient way to help keep students healthy throughout flu season. To view the full schedule of clinic dates, click here.

Join ESS to Support Student Achievement!

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!

LRSD Offers Support for Families in Transition

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.

LRSD Partners with GoFan for Ticketless 
Entry to Athletic Events

We're taking our ticket game to the next level! LRSD is teaming up with GoFan to provide a seamless, paperless experience at all athletic events. Fans can now purchase tickets online or on their phone by visiting GoFan.co, searching for their school, and selecting the event. Paper tickets will no longer be available for purchase at the events. See you at the games! Read more in this article.

Explore College-Level Learning with LRSD's 
Advanced Placement Program

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 & Talented 
Students Grades 6-12

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.

LRSD Partners with UA Little Rock to 
Simplify College Admissions

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.

In Other Partnership News: LRSD/UA-Little Rock Connection Also 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/

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

Experience the Magic of GloWILD 
at the Little Rock Zoo

This holiday season, the Little Rock Zoo invites you to experience GloWILD! From November 7, 2024, to January 5, 2025, explore spectacular light displays and immersive lantern exhibits. Discover three new themed sections—Mystical Marvels, Animal Kingdom, and Under the Sea—each filled with breathtaking visuals. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event, perfect for creating new family traditions. Tickets are available now, with special pricing and events, including a Sensory Night and New Year’s Eve celebration.

For info and tickets, click here.

More News from the Zoo....

Zoo for All: Affordable Admission 
for SNAP-EBT Cardholders

The Little Rock Zoo’s "Zoo for All" program offers reduced admission of just $2 per person for SNAP/EBT cardholders. This initiative helps make the zoo accessible to more families. For more details, visit the Little Rock Zoo's website here.

Donate Your Old Holiday Lights to Support Conservation Efforts at the Little Rock Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo is collecting old holiday lights starting November 1, 2024, as part of a recycling program that helps keep copper wire out of landfills. Donated lights and extension cords will also support African lion conservation. Donations will be accepted through January 31, 2025, so gather your old lights and give back this holiday season!

Help Refresh Baker's Alley Rainbow Tomorrow!

The rainbow in Baker’s Alley, located behind the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, is in need of a refresh, and you can help! A community paint party will take place on Saturday, November 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with music, refreshments, and paint rolling. Sign up for a shift and join in to help revitalize this colorful space! Sign up here!

Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance Looking to 
"Turnip" a Few Good Volunteers
Kick Off the Holiday Season at Little Rock's 
Annual Holiday House

Get ready to shop for a cause at the Holiday House, held November 7-9, 2024, at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock! Hosted by the Junior League of Little Rock, this event will feature over 75 merchants nationwide. With over 6,000 shoppers each year, Holiday House raises crucial funds for community initiatives like Stuff the Bus and Little Readers Rock.
For ticket info, click here.

Celebrate the Holidays with Dr. Seuss' 
How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

Get ready to experience a holiday classic live! Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical will bring the story of the Grinch, Max the Dog, and the Whos of Whoville to life at the Robinson Center on November 9-10, 2024. Featuring beloved songs and whimsical sets, this family-friendly show is part of the 2024-2025 Broadway Season and promises to delight audiences of all ages. Tickets are now available, with special presale options for email subscribers.

Make Plans to Attend This Year's 
Arkansas Cornbread Festival

Get ready for the Arkansas Cornbread Festival on Saturday, November 9, 2024, in Little Rock's vibrant SoMa neighborhood! Since 2011, this award-winning festival has delighted visitors with a delightful mix of food, music, and art. Enjoy the cornbread competition featuring talented home cooks, chefs, and live performances from incredible local artists. A variety of tasty offerings are included in your $20 admission. It's a perfect day of fun for everyone, including the little ones in the Cosmo Kids Zone!

Tickets

Recycling Made Easy: Join Little Rock 
Recycles Day on November 16

Join the Sustainability Office, Keep Little Rock Beautiful, and the Little Rock Zoo on November 16 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for a community recycling event! Drop off clean items for recycling, including documents for shredding, glass, e-waste, plastic bags, and even bicycles or household items. The event is free and open to the public, taking place at the East Parking Lot on Zoo Drive. For more details, visit lrecycles.com.

Bright the Night Festival to 
Light Up Downtown Little Rock

Join the holiday fun at Capitol Plaza for the Bright the Night festival! Starting at 5:30 p.m., the family-friendly event features carols, snow, a kids zone, and visits with Santa and Christmas characters. Enjoy free hot chocolate from Big Bad Breakfast and Hiland Dairy, along with cookies from Community Bakery. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra will provide festive tunes as we light up downtown. This free event is open to the public, and the holiday lights will shine through the New Year. A big thank you to our sponsors for making this magical event possible!

Big Holiday Celebration in Little Rock: 
Parade & Tree Lighting

Join the community on Saturday, December 7, 2024, for a festive celebration of the holiday season! The BIG Little Rock Holiday Parade will start at 4 p.m. and wind through downtown, leading up to the 86th annual Christmas tree lighting at the Arkansas State Capitol at 6:15 p.m. After the parade, bring the family to meet Santa Claus at the Statehouse Convention Center for a magical experience.

Do You Have an Event/Information You Would 
Like Featured in Our Blog?

Fill out this media request form: https://lrsd.jotform.com/201056269402044?

Remember, the deadline for each week's submissions is Thursday at noon. 

Friday, November 1, 2024

Friday Highlights 11.1.24

 

November is:
National Family Literacy Month
National Scholarship Month
National Adoption Month
Inspirational Role Models Month
PTA Healthy Lifestyles Month
National Gratitude Month
National Career Development Month
Military Family Month
National Native American Heritage Month
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
National Stomach Cancer Awareness Month
National Diabetes Awareness Month
National Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Important Dates: 
November 3: Daylight Saving Time Ends
November 4: Personnel Policy Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
November 5: Election Day
November 7: School Board Work Session (5:30 p.m.)
November 8: Professional Development (Students Out/Offices Open)
November 11: Veterans Day
November 12: LR PTA Council Meeting (11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)
November 18: Superintendent's Citation Program
November 19: ViPS Jane Mendal Reading Day
November 21: School Board Meeting (5:30 p.m.)

The Countdown is On!

Don't Forget to Set Your Clocks Back
 This Weekend!

LRSD Recruitment Fair A Huge Success!
Thank You to Our Community and Sponsors!

A big thank you to everyone who joined us for the LRSD Recruitment Fair! It was wonderful connecting with families and showcasing what makes LRSD the place to be. Special thanks to our talented student performers and amazing sponsors for helping make the event successful! A reminder - Open Enrollment is December 2-13 for families who want to join LRSD!

Central High's Dacoyla Gaines Wins 
FBLA Cover Design Competition

Congratulations to Central High School's Dacoyla Gaines! Last Friday, Central's FBLA members attended the District Five Fall Conference at UCA, where Dacoyla took home first place in the Cover Design Art Competition! Her winning design will be featured on the cover of the program for the Spring Conference in January. 

Little Rock Southwest Students Honored by the 2024 College Board National Recognition Program

Congratulations to Omari Williams and Jonathan Worrell from Little Rock Southwest High School for their recognition by the 2024 College Board National Recognition Program! Omari received the National First Generation Award, and Jonathan earned the National African American Award. These outstanding students are part of the Talented Tenth Program, who served as delegates to Arkansas Boys State and participated in multiple activities at their school. We are proud to celebrate their achievements!

Annual Dad's and Grandparent's Luncheon Celebrates Family and Fun

Today, the Little Rock School District hosted its annual Dad's and Grandparent's luncheon, honoring family involvement in our schools. Dads and grandparents enjoyed games and had the chance to win prizes, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. This event highlights families' important role in supporting our students and schools, making it a memorable day for everyone involved!

The University of Arkansas Pays Tribute to LRCH/LRSD's National Merit Semifinalists

LRSD thanks the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville for hosting a special reception celebrating our National Merit Semifinalists from Central High School. These students represent the top of their class academically, showcasing exceptional dedication and perseverance to achieve this prestigious recognition. LRSD takes pride in the students' accomplishments and can't wait to see what the future holds for them!

LRSD Honors Outstanding Achievements at Superintendent's Citation Program

The Little Rock School District proudly celebrates students and staff at its monthly Superintendent's Citation Program. This month, we recognized exceptional accomplishments of students in categories such as essay writing, state fair competitions, volleyball, and drone certification. Congratulations to all honorees!

Watson Counselor Featured on
KATV's Afternoon Show
Sharing Anti-Bullying Tips

Click on link below to see the interview: 

https://katv.com/community/little-rock-arc/watson-elementary-school-empowers-students-to-end-bullying-katv-news-education-contract-pledge-social-cyber-sign-little-rock-school-district 

Parkview Students Gain Interview Skills with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Last week, 9th-grade students at Parkview Arts/Science Magnet High School participated in mock interviews with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. This partnership allowed students to practice interview skills and build confidence for future career paths.

Honoring Día de los Muertos: Celebrating Tradition and Remembrance

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed. This special day is marked by vibrant traditions, symbolizing the importance of family and remembrance. Today, we recognize the beauty and cultural significance of Día de los Muertos.

Parkview Students Spin Spine-Chilling Tales at "Scary Stories @ The View"

Parkview Arts/Science Magnet High School students enjoyed an afternoon of suspense during "Scary Stories @ The View." Gathering in the library over lunch, students shared original scary stories that captivated their peers, bringing creativity and thrills to the school day!

Halloween Fun Across LRSD: A Day of Festive Costumes and Community Spirit

Thank you to all the staff and students who joined in on yesterday’s Halloween celebrations across LRSD! From creative costumes worn by Student Registration Coordinator Andre Williams, Administrative Assistant Brian Grant, and the McDermott Elementary administration team to all the smiles and fun, the Halloween spirit was truly alive. We appreciate everyone who made the day a festive success!

Watson Elementary's Fall Festival Brings Families Together for a Night of Fun!

Over 100 families gathered at Watson Elementary's Fall Festival for an evening of games, treats, and fun activities. With over 25 games and bouncy houses, kids and families had a blast! A big thanks to all the volunteers, staff, and families who made the night unforgettable.

Check Out Little Rock School-Based 
Health Clinic's November Newsletter
LRSD Annual School Flu Clinics Continue

The Little Rock School District, in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Health, is hosting its annual flu clinics at all LRSD schools. Students can receive the flu vaccine free of charge, but only with completed paperwork, including signed ADH and FERPA consent forms. These clinics provide a convenient way to help keep students healthy throughout flu season. To view the full schedule of clinic dates, click here

The Deadline is Nearing for School Board Vacancy
Zone 2/Southwest Little Rock

The Little Rock School District Board of Education is looking to fill an upcoming Zone 2/Southwest Little Rock vacancy. If you're interested in making a difference in students' lives, see details in the flyer above. The deadline to apply is November 6th. You may use this link to access the application: www.lrsd.org/board-zone-2. Join us in Reimagining LRSD!

Join ESS to Support Student Achievement!

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!

LRSD Offers Support for Families in Transition

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.

LRSD Partners with GoFan for Ticketless 
Entry to Athletic Events

We're taking our ticket game to the next level! LRSD is teaming up with GoFan to provide a seamless, paperless experience at all athletic events. Fans can now purchase tickets online or on their phone by visiting GoFan.co, searching for their school, and selecting the event. Paper tickets will no longer be available for purchase at the events. See you at the games! Read more in this article.

Explore College-Level Learning with LRSD's 
Advanced Placement Program

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 & Talented 
Students Grades 6-12

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.

LRSD Partners with UA Little Rock to 
Simplify College Admissions

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.

In Other Partnership News: LRSD/UA-Little Rock Connection Also 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/

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

Celebrate Day of the Dead 
in Downtown Little Rock Tonight!

Head to the Ron Robinson Theater alley tonight, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., for an unforgettable Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) celebration. Enjoy authentic Mexican food, live music, a pedestrian parade, and a stunning exhibition of altars created by artist Vicente Yañez. This cultural event brings to life the rich traditions of Día de Muertos, honoring loved ones and celebrating the beauty of Mexican heritage. Don't miss this unique gathering in downtown Little Rock!

Mark Your Calendars for the Annual Bluegrass Brunch Benefitting Dunbar Garden

Mark your calendars for November 3, 2024, and enjoy a delicious brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bluegrass Brunch fundraiser! For just $35, tickets include brunch, beverages, and live bluegrass music from the Busted Clays. Vegetarian options will be available. Kids’ tickets are only $15. Get ready for a fun-filled day of good food, music, and dancing! Purchase your tickets online, and don’t miss out on this exciting event supporting Dunbar Garden!

Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance Looking to "Turnip" a Few Good Volunteers
Kick Off the Holiday Season at Little Rock's Annual Holiday House

Get ready to shop for a cause at the Holiday House, held November 7-9, 2024, at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock! Hosted by the Junior League of Little Rock, this event will feature over 75 merchants nationwide. With over 6,000 shoppers each year, Holiday House raises crucial funds for community initiatives like Stuff the Bus and Little Readers Rock.

Celebrate the Holidays with Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical

Get ready to experience a holiday classic live! Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical will bring the story of the Grinch, Max the Dog, and the Whos of Whoville to life at the Robinson Center on November 9-10, 2024. Featuring beloved songs and whimsical sets, this family-friendly show is part of the 2024-2025 Broadway Season and promises to delight audiences of all ages. Tickets are now available, with special presale options for email subscribers.

Make Plans to Attend This Year's 
Arkansas Cornbread Festival

Get ready for the Arkansas Cornbread Festival on Saturday, November 9, 2024, in Little Rock's vibrant SoMa neighborhood! Since 2011, this award-winning festival has delighted visitors with a delightful mix of food, music, and art. Enjoy the cornbread competition featuring talented home cooks, chefs, and live performances from incredible local artists. A variety of tasty offerings are included in your $20 admission. It's a perfect day of fun for everyone, including the little ones in the Cosmo Kids Zone!

Tickets

Do You Have an Event/Information You Would 
Like Featured in Our Blog?

Fill out this media request form: https://lrsd.jotform.com/201056269402044?

Remember, the deadline for each week's submissions is Thursday at noon.