As January comes to a close, the Little Rock School District extends heartfelt gratitude to the LRSD Board of Education for their dedication and leadership. Their commitment to students, staff, and the community helps shape the future of education in our district. Thank you for your service!
.jpg)
The Little Rock School District is proud to be recognized in the Arkansas School Recognition Program for high student performance and growth. Four LRSD schools—Forest Park, Jefferson, Roberts, and Wakefield Elementary—earned a combined total of $331,065.70 in recognition funds. These awards highlight the dedication of our students, teachers, and families in achieving academic excellence. Congratulations to all!
Dunbar and LR Southwest
According to the 2024 post appeals annual statewide student
assessment data, LR Southwest and Dunbar have met the 95% federal participation
requirement and are no longer assigned a Participation Plan of Support. Per
ESEA, schools are expected to meet federal participation requirements by
testing at least 95% of all subgroups for ELA or Math. Schools that do not meet
the participation requirements for two or more consecutive years or that do not
show sustained improvement in meeting the 95% participation rate are placed on
a Participation Plan of Support with the Division of Elementary and Secondary
Education (DESE).
The Little Rock School District is committed to providing excellent customer service to students, families, and the community. A recently implemented secret shopper-style program is helping us assess and improve service across our schools. This month, LRSD recognized Chicot Elementary, Fair Park Early Childhood Center, Jefferson Elementary, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership and Language Magnet Academy, and Watson Elementary for going above and beyond. Thank you to these schools for setting a standard of service for our stakeholders!
Four seniors from the Little Rock School District have been recognized in the 2024/2025 Thea Foundation Scholarship Competition, earning a combined total of $29,000 in scholarships. Inspired by the theme “Fluidity,” the competition drew 300 applicants from across Arkansas, showcasing artistic talent in various disciplines. Disha Ram (Central) won 1st place in Creative Writing, and Addisyn Cain (Central) took 1st place in Film. Olya Tryndyak (Central) placed 5th in Performing Arts, while Aniya Foster (Parkview) placed 10th in Performing Arts. Their achievements highlight the incredible talent and dedication of LRSD students in the arts. Congratulations to these seniors!
Check Out This Great Article Highlighting
Mabelvale Middle's Community School Efforts
Read more here.
The Carver and Washington communities came together for a night of fun and fashion at the Carver-Washington Sneaker Ball. Students, families, and staff filled the dance floor, celebrating the upcoming merger of the two schools. The event showcased the excitement surrounding the new Carver-Washington STEAM Magnet Elementary, set to open in August. Families can register now on the LRSD website to be part of this new chapter.
Students at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership and Language Magnet Academy welcomed the Year of the Snake with a lively Chinese New Year celebration. The event featured a parade, a fashion show, a music performance, and a martial arts demonstration. As part of King’s new language magnet program, students proudly showcased their Mandarin skills and cultural knowledge. It was a festive and engaging way to bring learning to life!
The LRCH Chinese Program and Chinese Club celebrated the Lunar New Year with engaging activities that embraced cultural traditions. Students participated in calligraphy, writing Good Fortune and Happy New Year, as well as creating intricate paper cuttings to welcome the Year of the Snake. The festivities continued with a Chinese New Year party, featuring delicious food, drinks, and fun cultural games. Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Year of the Snake!
Rockefeller Early Childhood recently celebrated their 100th day of school with a fun-filled parade. Students dressed as centenarians, while others displayed creative posters and shirts adorned with 100 objects. This exciting event marked a milestone in the school year, highlighting both learning and creativity. It was a memorable way for students to reflect on the progress they've made so far!
The Dr. Marian G. Lacey Academy Beta Clubs, consisting of Elementary and Junior High members, recently represented LRSD at the Arkansas State Beta Convention. Students competed in categories such as Living Literature, Robotics, Speech, and academic tests in subjects like Math, Computer Science, and Spelling. Several Lacey students earned top placements and qualified for the National Beta Convention in Orlando this summer. Congratulations to these students!
Mabelvale Elementary students recently put their culinary and math skills to the test with the help of Apple Seed Teaching Farm. The students prepared a healthy side dish featuring kale, sweet potatoes, turnips, and a touch of garlic. They measured ingredients and practiced math while creating a nutritious meal. Parents are encouraged to try this delicious recipe at home!
The Little Rock School District invites you to the 2025 Black Male Educator Summit, set for February 21-22 at Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy. The theme continues: “Shop Talk: Building Community Through Cutting Edge Conversations,” highlighting opportunities for collaboration, growth, and impactful dialogue. The event includes a Right to Read session, networking reception, and inspiring keynote presentations. Stay tuned for sponsorship and registration details coming soon!
Looking for a school district where your child can thrive from infancy through graduation? It’s ONE-STOP shopping at the Little Rock School District! From award-winning academics and cutting-edge STEM programs to championship-winning athletics and vibrant arts opportunities—LRSD has it all!
Join the One Team, One Dream movement and discover why LRSD is the best choice for your family. School Choice Enrollment is happening now through May 1st! Don’t wait—explore your options at LRSD and secure your seat today for the kind of programs you WON’T find anywhere else!
Visit our website or call us at 501-447-2950 to learn more. More opportunities for kids, it’s what sets Little Rock School District apart!
School Choice applications are now open for LRSD’s award-winning Early Childhood Program! Our Pre-K programs offer certified teachers, age-appropriate learning activities, and full-day sessions that include breakfast, snacks, and lunch. Families living outside the district can apply through the Arkansas School Choice Act. Visit LRSD.org/Pre-K to apply by May 1, 2025, and give your child a strong start!
Looking for a flexible, innovative learning option? The LRSD Virtual Academy offers rigorous, guided, and independent learning experiences. Students can explore a variety of electives, join extracurricular activities, and even participate in sports. Apply through the Arkansas School Choice Act by May 1, 2025, at LRSD.org/virtual!
.jpg)
Bright Futures Little Rock is organizing a coat drive to support students and families in need across LRSD. As winter approaches, the community is encouraged to donate new or gently used coats. Donations can be arranged by contacting BrightFuturesLR@lrsd.org. Your generosity helps keep our students warm this season.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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 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/
on Super Saturday!
Get ready, Little Rock! From January 31 to February 2, 2025, the smash-hit Broadway musical Ain't Too Proud will take the stage at the Robinson Center. This electrifying show tells the unforgettable story of The Temptations, featuring their iconic hits like “My Girl” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.” With thrilling choreography and a powerful narrative, Ain't Too Proud is a must-see event for music and theater lovers alike. Don't miss your chance to experience this Tony Award-winning production! Get tickets here.
The Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) invites young artists in grades 9-12 to participate in "Imagining Black Futures: Young Artists Envision Afrofuturism." This community event encourages students to explore Black identity, autonomy, and liberation through various art forms, including painting, photography, videography, and more. Submissions are due by February 1, 2025, with gallery space curated by a juried committee and cash prizes awarded to top entries. For details, contact Jet Butler at jbutler@cals.org or visit your local CALS library.
Anime enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The 2025 Little Rock Anime Festival is happening February 1-2, featuring special guests Eric Vale, Kaiji Tang, and Keith Silverstein. Dive into cosplay, engaging panels, unique vendors, and much more. Don’t miss this exciting community event! Buy your tickets here.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as the Garden Bros Nuclear Circus brings its electrifying show to town from February 6-9, 2025! This family-friendly event, held under the World's Largest Big Top Arena, features over 60 performers, jaw-dropping acts like the human cannonball, and fun activities for all ages. Arrive early to enjoy face painting, pony rides, and the giant circus midway. Don’t miss this two-hour spectacle of thrills, special effects, and delicious circus treats—free children’s tickets are available at local schools and businesses! Adult tickets can be purchased here.
Live Music Featuring Current/Former
LRSD Students
Honoring Legacy of Late Great Art Porter, Sr.
Free concerts to create awareness about work of Art Porter Music Education Foundation and honoring the legacy of the late Art Porter, Sr., a beloved jazz statesman and former LRSD music educator. Details in flyers above:
Porter Players Jam Session - Wednesday, February 12
Art Porter Singers and G-Music Black History Tribute, Featuring Dee Dee Jones
Ballet Arkansas is celebrating one of the greatest love story with its production of Romeo & Juliet at the Robinson Center. The performances, scheduled for February 14-16, 2025, will feature an emotional and captivating retelling of the classic tale, with choreography, a community cast of over 100, and an unforgettable score by Prokofiev. Get tickets for the performance here.
Mosaic Templars Cultural Center invites the community to A Taste of Black Little Rock on Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event will showcase the vibrant flavors and creativity of Black-owned restaurants and independent chefs in Central Arkansas. Enjoy food samples, live music, and networking opportunities. Tickets are available for a $25 donation, with discounted tickets at Mosaic Templars through February 19. Space is limited—secure your spot today!
Mark your calendars for a weekend of glittering fun and funky beats! The SoMardi Gras Disco 2025 kicks off with a lively pre-party bash on February 28, followed by a dazzling New Orleans-style parade, street festival, and beard contest on March 1 in the SoMa District. From live music and dancing to creative beards and kid-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this celebration of community and creativity!
Soup Sunday 2025 is happening on March 2, 2025, from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at The Venue at Westwind in North Little Rock. Experience a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with delicious soups, live music, and a fun auction, all while supporting Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families. Don’t forget your muffin tin to help reduce waste, and enjoy a night of great food, entertainment, and giving back to a worthy cause!
.png)
