Little Rock Southwest High School hosted the buzzing excitement of LRSD’s annual Elementary Spelling Bee! After months of preparation, students competed for the coveted title of top speller. Congratulations to Aleen Fatima from Don Roberts Elementary for winning first place and Humza Ali from Forest Park Elementary for earning second place. These students along with the other talented participants truly made their schools proud! All will have an opportunity to represent LRSD at the County Spelling Bee. Crossing our fingers for you!
Last week, student leaders from Carver STEAM Magnet School and Washington Elementary visited each other’s campuses to explore their unique programs and opportunities. These visits are part of the schools' preparation to combine into the Carver-Washington STEAM Magnet Academy next school year. These student leaders and their classmates enjoyed campus tours and interactive events, creating excitement about the transition. The new academy promises to bring expanded STEAM opportunities for all students.
Volunteers gathered at McDermott Elementary for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service this past weekend. Their efforts brought visible improvements to the campus and completed projects benefiting the surrounding community. Board Member Greg Adams, Stefanie Vestal, Sky Brower, and numerous volunteers dedicated their time and energy to making a positive impact. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this inspiring day of service!
Speaking of Service - You Can Support Cancer Awareness/Research at
Tonight's Pink Out at Central's Basketball Games
During a recent visit to Watson Elementary, LRSD Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright observed 3rd-grade teacher Ronisha "Niki" Johnson delivering an exceptional math lesson. Dr. Wright described her instruction as "phenomenal," noting her thorough planning, use of academic language, and ability to engage students in meaningful math discussions. He praised her intentional strategies to support English Language Learners and students with disabilities, calling her lesson a model of excellence. Thank you, Ms. Johnson, for your dedication to student success!
Stephens Elementary Student with a School Visit
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Stephens Elementary had an inspiring moment during its Honor Assembly when Officer Tommy Norman from the North Little Rock Police Department made a surprise visit. The visit was sparked by Tyairah Cleaver, a fifth-grade student, who wrote to Officer Norman asking him to speak about gun violence and drug prevention. To Tyairah’s surprise, he kept his promise and delivered a powerful message to the entire school, encouraging students to make positive choices. Thank you, Officer Norman, for empowering our students and making this day unforgettable (and for coming across the river 
Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright visited Gibbs International Magnet and Horace Mann Middle School to observe teachers in action during "Data Day." Educators used the time to analyze recent student assessment data and plan targeted lessons to meet individual student needs. Principal Greenwood led meaningful discussions at Gibbs while teachers at Mann collaborated on small-group and personalized learning strategies. These efforts reflect LRSD’s commitment to improving student outcomes through intentional and focused planning.
On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, LRSD staff members played a key role at the City Year Little Rock Education Equity Summit held at Henderson. They led discussions on important issues, including systemic racial disparities and social determinants of health, while sharing innovative strategies for advancing equity in education. The summit brought together AmeriCorps members, LRSD staff, and community stakeholders to collaborate on solutions for creating a more equitable future. LRSD is proud to have its team leading efforts to foster meaningful change in education.
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!
The Little Rock School District had the privilege of appearing on the popular Broadway Joe Morning Show on Power 92.3FM! LRSD grant writer Linda Young and Southwest High Principal George Maxey joined the conversation to highlight what sets LRSD apart, including over $52 million in grant funding secured last year. These funds support innovative programs and new magnet themes, offering even more opportunities for students across the district. And, of course, Mr. Maxey had to brag about his early college program. Want to know more, visit www.lrsd.org/LRSW-Early-College
Second-grade students at Mabelvale Elementary gained a deeper understanding of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s impact on history during lessons last week. They learned about the March on Washington and its role in the civil rights movement. This meaningful instruction helped students connect with Dr. King's legacy just in time for the holiday.
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!
Infants and toddlers at Rockefeller Early Childhood Center had a blast exploring snow right in their classrooms! Teachers brought the winter wonder indoors, giving the little ones a safe and cozy space to scoop, mold, and play with the chilly surprise. Their laughter and curiosity lit up the room, making it a day to remember!
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!
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/
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.
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.
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.
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!
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