Friday, August 23, 2024

Friday Highlights 8.23.24

   

August is:

Get Ready for Kindergarten Month
National Back-to-School Month
Children's Eye Health and Safety Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
National Wellness Month
Black Business Month
National Dog Month
Family Fun Month

Important Dates: 
August 26: Women's Equality Day
September 2: Labor Day (Schools & Offices Closed)
September 8: Grandparents Day
September 9: Personnel Policy Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
September 10: LR PTA Council Meeting (11:00 a.m.)
September 12: School Board Work Session (5:30 p.m.)
September 15: National Security Officer Appreciation Week
September 15: Hispanic Heritage Month begins
September 16:  National Community School Coordinator Week
Deadline is Monday
Vote Now in the "Dads Take Your Child to School" Contest

The "Dads Take Your Child to School" contest is in full swing, and it’s time to cast your vote! Show your support for your favorite dads and father figures by voting today. Plus, some lucky winners will enjoy fantastic prizes, including tickets to the upcoming Razorback game, a golf game for four at the Country Club of Arkansas on September 20th, or a parking pass and admission for four to the Arkansas State Fair! Please check out our helpful guide if you have any questions about the voting process.
Let's get those votes in: www.lrsd.org/2024-dads 
For Info on voting:  https://www.lrsd.org/article/1726124!

LRSD Honors 2023-2024 Retirees at
Annual Reception

The Little Rock School District celebrated the 2023-2024 retirees at a special reception this week. The event honored their years of dedication and service to our students and community. Each retiree was recognized for their unique contributions and the lasting impact they've made. We wish them all the best as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Central High School Senior Builds Friendships and 
Changes Lives Through Nonprofit

Jackson Jones, a Little Rock Central High School senior, was featured this week on KATV for his nonprofit, Fostering Friendships. It's dedicated to creating meaningful connections between high school students and children in foster care or at risk of entering the system. His efforts have brightened the lives of the children involved and inspired his peers to join the cause. Jones plans to continue his impactful work as he pursues a future in entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership. Great work!

LRSD Schools Nominated for
2024 Best of the Best Awards

Several LRSD schools have been nominated in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's 2024 Best of the Best Readers' Choice Awards. Categories include Best Public Elementary School, Best Public Middle School, and Best Public High School. Voting is now open, and your support can help our schools achieve top honors. Cast your vote today:  https://tinyurl.com/2s3rkfp9!

Little Rock School District Presented with $300,000 Check in Phase One of the 2024 Renew America's Schools Prize and Grant

The Little Rock School District is proud to announce its recognition as a Winner and Selectee of the 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize and Grant. This award, administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, supports critical upgrades in energy efficiency and indoor air quality for 17 schools within the District. LRSD partnered with Energia and Protect|ED to secure a $300,000 prize and a cooperative agreement valued at over $11 million. The District will now work with Energia to conduct a comprehensive energy assessment to prioritize necessary improvements.

Southwest High Makes History with
First Female 
Head Drum Major

LR Southwest High School proudly announces Taryn Dotson as the school's first female Head Drum Major. Taryn, a dedicated musician and student, has been a key band member since 2021, excelling in her musical talents and academics. Her leadership and commitment have earned her this historic role in the SuperSonic Storm marching band. Join us in celebrating Taryn's remarkable achievement!

Gibbs Elementary Welcomes
Exchange Students 
from Madagascar

Gibbs Elementary students had the unique opportunity to meet two exchange students from Madagascar this week. The visitors shared fascinating details about their country and its culture. They also joined the class in practicing French, making the experience both educational and interactive. The visit provided a meaningful way for students to broaden their global understanding.

HELLO, DOLLY! at The Rep Features LRSD Stars and Parkview Alum as Director

Two of LRSD's very own will star in The Rep's upcoming production of HELLO, DOLLY! Forest Heights STEM Academy music teacher Satia Spencer and drama educator Dariane LyJoi Mull are performing in this iconic musical at the Robinson Center from August 22-24. The show is also directed by Ken Matt Martin, a Parkview High School graduate and LRSD alum. This Broadway classic features a lively and charming storyline enhanced by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. We proudly support our talented educators and graduates as they showcase their incredible skills on stage!

Ken Matt Martin (Democrat-Gazette file photo/Cary Jenkins)

LR Southwest's Dr. Justice Mason Named
 a Society for Science Advocate

Dr. Justice Mason of Little Rock Southwest High School has been selected as an Advocate by the Society for Science for the 2024-2025 school year. This prestigious program recognizes 100 educators nationwide committed to enhancing STEM education and supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. As an Advocate, Dr. Mason will receive specialized training, financial support, and year-round resources to help guide students through STEM research and competitions. This honor highlights Dr. Mason's dedication to expanding opportunities and fostering a passion for science among his students. Congratulations!

You're Invited - But Encouraged to
Register First!  

Click on the following link to learn more:  


Click on the following link to learn more:  https://tinyurl.com/lrsdb2sevent


Join the LRSD Student Board

and Make a Difference!

The Little Rock School District invites 7th - 12th grade students to apply for a position on the Student Board. As a board member, you'll represent your peers, gain valuable leadership experience, and help shape school policies. This is a unique opportunity to develop essential skills such as public speaking and problem-solving. Apply today to have a real impact on your school community: LRSD Student Board Application.

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 for 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 continues supporting 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.

Shape the Future of Our Libraries: Share Your Thoughts with LRSD's Partner CALS

We are proud partners with the Central Arkansas Library System and share this survey with you on their behalf. As someone interested in helping shape the future of our community’s library system, you are encouraged to share your thoughts using the following link: https://cals.org/strategic-plan. Young people are requested to submit responses using the adult link survey. The children’s survey is designed for kids in elementary school to give their input. Thank you for participating!

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
 

Freedom and Heritage Literary Series 2024 Kicks Off 
with Dr. Mahalia Hines

The Freedom and Heritage Literary Series 2024 begins on Saturday, August 24, at 10:30 AM with a discussion led by Dr. Mahalia Hines at Little Rock Southwest Magnet High School. The event, "Tomorrow’s Children: Back to School to Learn How to Thrive in a Challenging Educational Environment," is part of a more extensive series focused on community discussions and Q&A sessions. Upcoming events in the series will feature speakers like Kenneth Braswell and David Dennis, Jr., with locations to be announced. For more information or to RSVP, contact info@speakloudly.com or call (501) 952-6169.

Join the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
 for Grand Opening of
Stella Boyle Smith Music Center

The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra invites the community to the grand opening of the Stella Boyle Smith Music Center on Saturday, September 14, 2024. The celebration includes a downtown parade, outdoor festivities, and a full lineup of free concerts starting at 11:00 a.m. Families can enjoy activities and performances throughout the day, with a special Masquerade Party in Morgan Hall in the evening. All events are free and open to the public.

Join the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts for a 
Family Sing-Along Night

Mark your calendars for an evening of family fun at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts on August 27, 2024. From 6:00 to 7:30 PM, sing along to popular movie and Broadway hits while enjoying on-screen lyrics and simple choreography. It's a night everyone in the family will love! Get tickets here.

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience in Little Rock
Through October 31

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is a 360ยบ digital art exhibition inviting you to enter the universe of the Dutch genius Vincent van Gogh. This captivating experience, a previous winner of USA Today's 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards, is brought to you by the organizers of a collection of widely successful exhibitions in cities across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

For Tickets: https://feverup.com/m/133055


Razorbacks Face Off Against Golden Lions at 
War Memorial Stadium

The University of Arkansas Razorbacks will battle the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions on August 29, 2024, at War Memorial Stadium. Gates open at 5:00 p.m., with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. Don't miss out on the action — check out the ticket and tailgating information here!

Arkansas Comic Con Brings Pop Culture 
Excitement to Little Rock

The Arkansas Comic Con will be held at the Statehouse Convention Center from September 6th to 8th, 2024. This three-day event will feature celebrity guests, fan panels, costume contests, and more. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from meeting their favorite stars to participating in gaming tournaments. It’s a weekend of fun and fandom for all ages! Get tickets here.

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, August 16, 2024

Friday Highlights 8.16.24

  

August is:

Get Ready for Kindergarten Month
National Back-to-School Month
Children's Eye Health and Safety Month
National Immunization Awareness Month
National Wellness Month
Black Business Month
National Dog Month
Family Fun Month

Important Dates: 
August 19:  Special Board Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
August 22: School Board Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
September 2: Labor Day (Schools & Offices Closed)
September 9: Personnel Policy Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)
September 10: LR PTA Council Meeting (11:00 a.m.)
September 12: School Board Work Session (5:30 p.m.)

Deadline Tonight:  Weigh in on Mascot, School Colors & Name for New High School in WLR

 LRSD is excited to announce the opening of a new high school in WLR. To make it special and help with the design/planning, we need your help identifying a name, mascot, and colors. Please share your thoughts in the survey: https://lrsd.jotform.com/241974514235054. The Deadline is Tonight! 

Entries for Dads/Father Figures Contest Deadline Also Tonight!
We invite dads and father figures to share a picture of themselves with their LRSD student(s) captured this first week of school. This is a fantastic way to celebrate and document the start of the new school year. Post those unforgettable memories together for a chance to win prizes and lunch!
Enter your pictures here: www.lrsd.org/2024-dads
First Week of School Kicks Off with
Energy 
and Excitement at LRSD

The first week of school at Little Rock School District has been a success, with students and staff settling into their routines. Classrooms are buzzing with energy, and new friendships are already forming. Teachers are dedicated to creating a positive learning environment, ensuring every student feels welcome. It's clear this school year is off to a fantastic start!


New Beginnings: Little Rock School District Welcomes Students to Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy for the First Time


Photo Courtesy: Colin Murphy/Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

The Little Rock School District proudly opened the Dr. Marian G. Lacey K-8 Academy, a new state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the memory of former Principal Dr. Marion G. Lacey. The academy offers innovative programs like STREAM, Civil Air Patrol, and AVID, creating numerous opportunities for students to thrive. Principal Don Porter emphasized the school's focus on collaboration and hands-on learning, making it a welcoming home for students in the community. This opening marks a significant step forward for LRSD, with plans for continued growth and future expansions on the horizon.

Superintendent, Mayor Welcome Students to 
LRSD's Newest Community School

Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright and Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. welcomed students at McDermott Elementary on Wednesday, marking the beginning of the campus's journey as Little Rock's newest community school. The leaders emphasized the importance of community collaboration in fostering student success and building a strong, supportive environment. The day was a true celebration of the partnership between the school and the community it serves. BTW, Dunbar Magnet Middle School has also been designated a new community school site.  

Little Rock School District Wins
2024 Renew America's 
Schools Prize and Grant

The Little Rock School District is proud to announce its recognition as both a Winner and Selectee of the 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize and Grant. This award, administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, supports critical upgrades in energy efficiency and indoor air quality for 17 school facilities within the District. LRSD’s success was achieved through strategic partnerships with Energia and Protect|ED, securing a $300,000 prize and a cooperative agreement valued at over $11 million. The District will now work with Energia to conduct a comprehensive energy assessment to prioritize necessary improvements.

Central High School Students and Graduates 
Earn Prestigious Honors

The Little Rock School District proudly congratulates Central High School's Shashitej Mummadi and Bhavana Sridharan on being named Sturgis Fellows at the University of Arkansas, as well as Yahya Younus, who was selected as a Coolidge Senator and earned a $1,000 scholarship. Additionally, senior Disha Ram has been named a National Student Poet Finalist, one of the highest youth English honors in the country. These exceptional achievements highlight the dedication and talent of our students. Your LRSD family is proud of you!

New Windows Brighten the Future at 
Dunbar Magnet Middle School

Dunbar Magnet Middle School is celebrating a new chapter with over 100 energy-efficient windows, thanks to a $1.9 million upgrade funded by a voter-approved LRSD initiative. These new windows bring natural light into classrooms, creating a positive learning environment for students. Principal Quintin Cain believes this change will inspire and energize the next generation of learners. The project, supported by the Dunbar Historic Neighborhood Association, honors the school's rich history and lasting legacy in the Little Rock community.

Watch the news story on THV11 here: https://tinyurl.com/5eme3kws

David Kizzia Joins LRSD as New Staff Attorney

The Little Rock School District is pleased to announce the appointment of David Kizzia as the district's new staff attorney. Kizzia brings a wealth of legal expertise to our team, and we are confident that he will play a crucial role in supporting our mission. Welcome to the LRSD team, Mr. Kizzia!

Roberts Elementary Students Enjoy
 Indoor 
Recess Games During Heatwave

As temperatures soar outside, Roberts Elementary has found a cool solution—indoor recess games! Students are staying active and engaged while beating the heat indoors. It’s all about fun and safety at Roberts Elementary.

LRSD Partner City Year Celebrates
 20 Years of Service


City Year Little Rock marked its 20th year of service with an Opening Day ceremony on August 9. This year, City Year AmeriCorps Members will serve in six LRSD schools, including Stephens, Lacey, Mabelvale MS, Chicot, and JA Fair (ES and MS). As Student Success Coaches, they provide valuable support to our teachers and students. We appreciate City Year’s continued commitment to strengthening our school community.

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 for 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 continues supporting 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.

Shape the Future of Our Libraries: Share Your Thoughts with LRSD's Partner CALS

We are proud partners with the Central Arkansas Library System and share this survey with you on their behalf. As someone who is interested in helping shape the future of our community’s library system, you are encouraged to share your thoughts using the following link: https://cals.org/strategic-plan. Young people are requested to submit responses using the adult link survey. The children’s survey is designed for kids in elementary school to give their input. Thank you for participating!

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
 

Last Call for Jitney at the Arkansas Rep -
Featuring LRSD's Own Award-Winning Playwright/Actor Steve Broadnax
Photo Courtesy: Matthew Sewell
Set in 1970s Pittsburgh, Jitney by August Wilson is filled with rich texture and humor, tells the story of a group of men struggling to make a living by driving unlicensed taxis. As the city threatens to shut down their operation and the boss’s son returns from prison, tensions rise, long-buried secrets surface, and the fragile bonds holding these men together may finally unravel. LRSD alum Steve Broadnax III, a professor at Penn State and award-winning actor/playwright, is one of the main characters.  The show wraps Sunday with a matinee. 
For tickets: https://www.therep.org/jitney_tickets/ 

Join the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts for a 
Family Sing-Along Night

Mark your calendars for an evening of family fun at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts on August 27, 2024. From 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, sing along to popular movie and Broadway hits while enjoying on-screen lyrics and simple choreography. It's a night everyone in the family will love! Get tickets here.

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience in Little Rock
August 2 - October 31

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is a 360ยบ digital art exhibition inviting you to enter the universe of the Dutch genius Vincent van Gogh. This captivating experience, a previous winner of USA Today's 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards, is brought to you by the organizers of a collection of widely successful exhibitions present in cities across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

For Tickets: https://feverup.com/m/133055


Celebrate Women at the 5th Annual Central Arkansas Women's Expo in Little Rock

The 5th Annual Central Arkansas Women’s Expo With A Cause will be held in Little Rock on August 17-18, 2024! This event celebrates women and offers a fun-filled experience to share with your friends, sisters, mothers, and daughters. Don't miss out on the chance to enjoy a weekend of empowerment, inspiration, and connection!

Razorbacks Face Off Against Golden Lions at 
War Memorial Stadium

The University of Arkansas Razorbacks will battle the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions on August 29, 2024, at War Memorial Stadium. Gates open at 5:00 p.m., with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. Don't miss out on the action — check out the ticket and tailgating information here!

Arkansas Comic Con Brings Pop Culture 
Excitement to Little Rock

The Arkansas Comic Con will be held at the Statehouse Convention Center from September 6th to 8th, 2024. This three-day event will feature celebrity guests, fan panels, costume contests, and more. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from meeting their favorite stars to participating in gaming tournaments. It’s a weekend of fun and fandom for all ages! Get tickets here.

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.