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and Language Academy Students
Get Early Start Honoring Namesake's Legacy
Ambassadors from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership and
Language Academy represented the District well during a special tribute to the
late civil rights leader at the governor’s mansion earlier this week.
Way to go, students!
The Little Rock School District has reached a major milestone with the latest ATLAS assessment results, surpassing the performance threshold set by Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2913. The Arkansas Department of Education confirmed that LRSD’s scores no longer require additional Coordinated Support from the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. This progress means LRSD is no longer obligated to participate in quarterly Act 1082 check-ins with the district support unit. Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright credited the achievement to the dedication of students, families, and educators, emphasizing the district’s commitment to continued academic growth.
Dr. Mary "Beth" Maris, Central High School Science Chair, has been honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. This national recognition celebrates her outstanding contributions to STEM education and her dedication to inspiring students. The award includes a certificate signed by President Biden, a $10,000 prize, and an invitation to a future ceremony in Washington, D.C. Dr. Maris’s achievement reflects the exceptional talent and leadership found at Central High School.
LRSD Students to Take Advantage of
ACT Prep Program
Students at Chicot Elementary are gaining real-world financial skills thanks to a partnership with First Security Bank and the Arkansas Securities Department. This week, students got a visit from the bank mascot, Penny Pockets, and were introduced to saving, money management, and the difference between needs and wants. Fifth-grade students will soon take on leadership roles as tellers as campus branches continue to expand at LRSD, building valuable skills for the future.
Rockefeller Early Childhood Center’s 4-year-old classes had a special visit from the Quapaw Quartet of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Students learned about the viola, violin, and cello during an engaging presentation. The excitement continued as students got hands-on experience playing some of the instruments. A special thanks to the Quapaw Quartet for bringing music to life for our young learners!
The Pinnacle View Middle School Band 1 made a special visit to Fulbright Elementary to recruit budding musicians. Students learned about the excitement of joining a band while also getting to play with some of the instruments. This visit was a perfect example of students encouraging each other to achieve great things!
The Little Rock School District invites you to the 2025 Black Male Educator Summit, set for February 20-22 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!
McDermott Elementary and City Year Little Rock invite the community to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by donating blood at their Mobile Blood Drive, hosted by Our Blood Institute. The event happens on Saturday, January 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at McDermott Elementary. Your donation is especially vital due to the recent winter weather’s impact on blood supplies. Donors will receive a HERO t-shirt, a Museum of Discovery ticket, and a free "bundtlet" from Nothing Bundt Cakes. Sign up to donate here.
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/
Join the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission for a special Day of Service and a memorable "Night of Unity" on January 20, 2025. Starting at 5:30 PM with a candlelight ceremony, the evening will culminate in a stunning fireworks display at North Little Rock's Riverfront Park. This free event is a time to reflect on Dr. King's legacy and come together in unity.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening at Jazz Night, featuring an Earth, Wind & Fire tribute with Keith Savage and Haywood King! Hosted at The Venue at Westwind on January 25, this event benefits the Next Generation program. Enjoy a social hour from 4–5 PM before the show kicks off from 5–9 PM. Secure your tickets at Jazz Night Eventbrite. Don't miss this night of incredible music and community connection!
Coming to Central Arkansas
Join the fun on January 25, 2025, at Simmons Bank Arena for the Harlem Globetrotters' 2025 World Tour! Experience jaw-dropping basketball tricks, dunks, and laughs, plus a chance to meet the players during the Magic Pass session before the game. Don't miss out on an unforgettable day of hoops and excitement! Tickets are on sale now, and group discounts are available.
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.
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!
