March 31: Citation Program (will include rescheduled honorees)
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The 2025 Black Male Educator Summit is here! The event is happening this weekend 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 networking reception and inspiring keynote presentations. Registration details may be found here: https://www.lrsd.org/page/black-male-educators-summit-2025.
Sara Chen, Pinnacle View Middle School, is the 2025 Arkansas State Spelling Bee Champion after correctly spelling "zdarsky tent." Sponsored by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the competition brought together top spellers from across the state. Sara will now compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Good luck, Sara! Your LRSD family is rooting for you!
The Little Rock Central Wrestling Team had a historic performance at the 6A State Championships. The girls’ team won LRSD’s first-ever state wrestling title, while the boys’ team earned third place, their best finish since 2012. Several wrestlers earned All-State honors, with multiple finalists and champions. Coach Aaron Butler was also named Coach of the Year for the second straight season. Congratulations!
Theater Near You... A District Update
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Join us for the State of the District Address on March 18, 2025, at 6 p.m. at the Ron Robinson Theater in Library Square! This is your opportunity to hear directly from LRSD leadership about our progress, challenges, and exciting plans for the future. Let’s come together to #ReimagineLRSD and build brighter futures for every student! Be part of the conversation and see how YOU can play a role in our success story.
The Southwest Wind Ensemble received Superior Ratings at the Alcorn State University Concert Band Festival, the highest distinction an ensemble can achieve. In addition, 11 seniors earned full tuition band scholarships totaling $296,000 through a rigorous audition process. Congratulations to the directors and students on their success!
Parkview Arts/Science Magnet High School’s choir students delivered outstanding performances at the ArkCDA Choral Performance Assessment. All five choirs—Advanced Treble Chorus, Lab Singers, Madrigals, Tenor/Bass Chorus, and Treble Chorus—earned spots in the State Choral Festival this April. Their hard work and dedication have paid off, showcasing their talent and commitment to excellence.
Dr. I.J. Routen and students appeared on KATV’s Daybreak to highlight Artistry in the Rock and share their artwork. You can see the spectacular display in person, March 17-20, at the Arkansas State Fair – Hall of Industry. The event features student performances, an art gallery, and special evening events. Enjoy daily showcases from 10 AM to 1 PM, with Opening Night on March 17 at 6 PM and an Art Auction on March 19 to support senior scholarships. This event is free and open to the public—don’t miss the chance to celebrate LRSD’s talented students! (A little birdie says there may even be a cameo performance by the Superintendent!)
Ruhee Raheem, Little Rock Central High senior, won first place in the Voices of Democracy audio-essay contest at VFW Post 9095. She received a $250 prize and a certificate recognizing her achievement. Her essay now advances to the district level, with the potential to compete at the state and national levels. Ruhee’s Creative Writing teacher, Shawna Shannon, was also honored with a citation award. Congratulations to Ruhee on this outstanding accomplishment!
Would You Know What to Do If You Were Hacked?
Discussion Featuring Dr. Shana Loring
In celebration of Women’s History Month, the University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College will host a panel discussion on Tuesday, March 18 at 11 a.m. in the CHARTS Theater. The event, moderated by Dr. Ana Hunt, will explore the theme "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations." Panelists include LRSD's own Dr. Shana Loring. Make plans to attend!
Forest Heights STEM Academy students and families had a fantastic time at the Spring Fling! With bounce houses, laser tag, food trucks, and vendors, the event was filled with excitement and community spirit. A big thank you to the FHSA PTSA and Southern Bancorp for making it all possible!
The Snow Leopards of Gibbs Magnet had a blast during Craig O’Neill's presentation of The Man Who Didn’t Like Animals—especially when some of their own took center stage! One student fully embraced her role as the dog, while another brought the cow to life. The teachers were even recruited as “angry neighbors." It was a fun and unforgettable visit to the school! Thanks, Craig O'Neill for your support of our schools and reading!
Mehikye Harris, a freshman at Little Rock Central High School, has been nominated for the 2025 Youth Empowerment Award by the National Association of University Women (Little Rock Metro Area Branch). This honor recognizes his leadership, service, and dedication to the community. Harris will be recognized at the Emerald Founders’ Day Brunch on March 15 at Shorter College. Way to Mehikye!
Nominate a Star Volunteer for
LRSD's ViPS Awards
LRSD’s Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) is hosting “An Evening for the Stars” on April 22, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. This event honors the dedicated volunteers who support our schools, and you can help by submitting a nomination. Visit www.lrsd.org/o/lrsd/page/vips-awards to nominate by March 18, 2025. Don’t forget to RSVP and join the celebration!
Through Arkansas School Choice
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!
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/
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Downtown Little Rock!
Little Rock is turning green for St. Patrick’s Day with an exciting parade, live performances, and festive activities for all ages. Join the community tomorrow for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, starting at 1:00 p.m. in downtown North Little Rock and making its way through the River Market District. Enjoy prime viewing spots, then stick around for the "Dancing at the Crossroads" show featuring Irish music and dance. Hosted by the Irish Cultural Society of Arkansas, this free event celebrates Central Arkansas's Irish heritage and cultural diversity.
Join the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts on March 15 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm for a bubble-tastic celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday! Enjoy Seuss-themed lawn games and bubbles with Little Rock's favorite bubble maker, Big Poppa Bubble, as the city kicks off The Cat in the Hat opening day ceremony! Don't miss this free, family-friendly event!
Get ready to hit 88mph! Back to the Future: The Musical is bringing its award-winning Broadway production to the Robinson Center from March 12-16, 2025. Audiences will experience the beloved story of Marty McFly and Doc Brown like never before, with electrifying music, dazzling effects, and classic hits from the film. Part of the 2024-2025 Broadway Season, this high-energy show is perfect for all ages. Tickets are now available!
Join Mickey Mouse and friends on a thrilling adventure at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party at Simmons Bank Arena. Experience breathtaking skating, high-flying acrobatics, and beloved Disney stories brought to life, including Frozen, Coco, Moana, and more. Tickets are available now - don’t miss this unforgettable night of Disney magic!
Otter Creek Community Church (OCCC) invites you to a special Healthcare Ministry event featuring expert speakers on essential health topics. Join them on March 29, 2025, from 9 AM to 11 AM at 13000 Quail Run Dr, Little Rock, AR, for insightful discussions on low vision, mental health, kidney/colon cancer, and cardiovascular health. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, invest in your well-being, and be inspired!
Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at Barkus on Main on Sunday, April 6, from noon to 5 p.m. in downtown Little Rock! This Mardi Gras-themed dog parade will bring fun for both two- and four-legged friends, featuring live entertainment, delicious food, and plenty of beads. The parade kicks off at 2:30 p.m. at 6th and Main, followed by a lively block “pawty” stretching from 3rd Street to Capitol Ave. Don’t miss out on the fun! Sign up for your pup to participate here.
Hadestown, the Tony Award-winning musical, is coming to Little Rock’s Robinson Center from April 25-27, 2025. This stunning production brings to life the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone with an innovative blend of folk, jazz, blues, and gospel music. Known for its powerful storytelling and mesmerizing performances, Hadestown takes audiences on a journey to the underworld that is both timeless and fresh. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of the most celebrated musicals of our time right here in Little Rock. Get your tickets today for a night of unforgettable theater!
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