Little Rock Southwest High School senior Brea Green has made school history as the first student-athlete to earn a full golf scholarship. Brea signed her letter of intent and will attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. BTW, Brea is the lone member of Southwest's golf team. The Little Rock School District congratulates Brea on this outstanding achievement and celebrates her as a trailblazer for future student-athletes.
Fine Arts Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Otter Creek Elementary’s Karyna Johnson, who has been named the 2025 Arkansas Fine Arts Teacher of the Year by Arkansans For The Arts. Ms. Johnson was surprised with the award during a special presentation and recognized for her outstanding commitment to arts education. Her passion for helping every student succeed shines through in everything she does, and we are proud to have her represent LRSD!
The Little Rock School District is proud to celebrate the 2025 Heads of Class from each of our high schools: Allison Belin (Southwest), Victoria Blake (Parkview), Vera Kanu (Hall-West), and Yahya Younus (Central). These outstanding seniors were recently featured in Little Rock Soirée magazine for their academic excellence and leadership. Congratulations to these remarkable students as they prepare to graduate and take the next step in their journeys!
Academic Signing Day
The Little Rock School District, in partnership with the Public Education Foundation of Little Rock, invites the community to celebrate Academic Signing Day on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. This special event honors outstanding LRSD graduates for their academic achievements. It will be held at The Venue at Westwind in North Little Rock.
at Barton Coliseum
The Little Rock School District will proudly celebrate the graduating Class of 2025 on May 22 at Barton Coliseum. Ceremonies for all four high schools—LR Southwest, Parkview, Hall-West, and LR Central—will take place throughout the day. Families are encouraged to arrive early, follow clear bag guidelines, and review event details in the official flyer to help make this a smooth and memorable occasion for our students. Congratulations, graduates!
Join Nabholz Youth Apprenticeship Program
Donte and Davion King, twin brothers in the Construction Technology Pathway at Metro Career Tech and students at Little Rock Southwest High School, have been hired by Nabholz Construction as part of their paid Youth Apprenticeship Program. This summer, they’ll earn $15 an hour, receive medical and dental benefits, and gain real-world experience in the skilled trades. Congratulations to Donte and Davion — perfect examples of the power of Career and Technical Education!
The Little Rock PTA Council hosted its annual Celebration Luncheon, recognizing outstanding staff, students, and community members from across LRSD. Honorees were celebrated for their achievements in service, leadership, and creativity through contests in art, essays, and poetry. Congratulations to all the award winners — we're proud of you!
Washington Elementary honored the memory of longtime head custodian Mr. Bobby Davis by dedicating its outdoor play area in his name. The new Mr. Bobby Davis Outdoor Learning and Play Center celebrates his legacy of joy, kindness, and commitment to students. Mr. Davis' grandson joined the school community for the ceremony, marking a special moment that ensures his spirit will live on through learning and play.
"The Changing View"
Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School's Dance Department wowed audiences last week with The Changing View, a stunning showcase of student talent and creativity. The performance featured a variety of styles and themes, highlighting the dancers’ growth, expression, and dedication. Way to go, performers!
Wakefield Elementary School and Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church recently celebrated 17 years of partnership with an end-of-year luncheon. Over the years, PHUMC volunteers have helped students improve their reading and math skills through a weekly tutoring program. This year, 38 volunteers worked with 67 students, building both academic success and strong relationships. The school and church look forward to continuing this important work together.
Future Buffalo Bill
Wakefield Elementary recently welcomed back former student TaMuarion Wilson, now headed to the NFL as a member of the Buffalo Bills. TaMuarion spoke to 3rd–5th graders about the importance of setting goals, working hard, and believing in yourself. Greeted by his former principal and teachers, his visit was a powerful reminder of what’s possible with dedication and perseverance.
Panel with LRSD Leadership
Match Day ceremonies last Friday paired UALR education students with residencies in the Little Rock School District. The ceremony pictured here took place at JA Fair. Each of the teachers-in-training is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and participant in the university's paid teacher residency program, which is wrapping up with its second cohort of students this year. Welcome the LRSD family!
Every child deserves access to books that spark imagination and inspire a lifelong love of reading. That’s the focus of the Reading in the Rock initiative, combined with improving literacy rates - in partnership with the City of Little Rock. The goal is to provide elementary students with books over spring break and into the summer, helping to build home libraries and prevent the summer slide. The community is encouraged to help us provide more books by making a financial donation. No amount is too small—every contribution helps put books in the hands of our students. Thank you in advance for your support!
here is the kickoff news conference:
or Mail a check to:
The Arkansas Community Foundation
5 Allied Drive, Suite 51110, Building 5, 11th Floor
Little Rock, AR 72202
(Memo: "LRSD Promise for the Future Fund")
Kaine Brown, a 2nd grader at McDermott Elementary, is a true #ReadingInTheRock star! He completed his reading log and earned exciting prizes, including zoo passes, a Chick-fil-A gift card, and a special pencil. Kaine also picked out new books during the summer book distribution—just in time to keep reading 20 minutes a day all summer long!
Mabelvale Elementary School welcomed a special guest. Dr. Iris Giles, an author and LRSD alum, visited the school to hand out signed copies of her book Myself My Feelings. The event was part of the school’s Summer Reading in the Rock book distribution, giving students an extra boost of excitement for reading and literacy this summer.
the Year at Terry Elementary
This week marked the final Story Time with Pastors event of the year at Terry Elementary. Throughout the school year, pastors from Central Arkansas visited classrooms in schools across the Little Rock School District to read stories and encourage a love of reading. The program is organized by the Volunteers in Public Schools program. We thank all the pastors and volunteers who made this year’s story time so special!
More Great Reading Stuff Across LRSD...
Career Exploration to Life
Dunbar Magnet Middle School hosted a successful Career Fair, welcoming over 200 attendees and more than 30 community partners. The day began with students participating in their own career day, including mock interviews. Throughout the event, students engaged in workshops, heard from local business leaders, explored entrepreneurship, and learned about building wealth. It was a dynamic and inspiring event that brought the community together and empowered students to explore their futures.
Eliminate School Lunch Debt
LRSD is proud to partner with the City of Little Rock Food Commission on the new "Lunch On Us" initiative, which raises awareness and support to help eliminate school lunch debt across the district. Together, we can ensure all students have access to healthy meals—because no child should have to learn on an empty stomach.
Make a difference by donating today: https://ar.accessgov.com/.../treasury.../lr-cares-donation/0
If your child attended a Head Start or Early Head Start program during the 2024–2025 school year, they may be eligible for Summer EBT benefits to help cover the cost of food during the summer months. This year, families must submit an application to receive benefits. Apply online at www.ar.gov/summerebt or pick up a paper application at your local DHS office.
LRSD is committed to providing students with more choices to help them thrive. From innovative career and technical programs to strong academics and arts, LRSD is opening doors to a brighter future. Watch our new video to see how LRSD is preparing students for success—no matter their path!
Show your team spirit with our One Team One Dream short-sleeve shirts! Available in red, green, gray, and pink, these shirts are a great way to represent LRSD. Click the highlighted links to order yours today!
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.
Community Report?
Did you see LRSD's latest Community Report? It features lots of LRSD highlights and the
2023-34 annual report. Read here.
As we finish out the 2024–25 school year, now is the perfect time to schedule your child’s physicals, sports physicals, and immunizations for next year. LRSD’s school-based health clinics reopen the week of July 14, 2025, and appointment slots are already filling up. These services are available to all LRSD students and their siblings. Don’t wait—beat the back-to-school rush and check the flyers for clinic hours and contact info!
Lyon College School of Dental Medicine invites families to the “Give Kids a Smile” event on July 18 from 9 AM to 12 PM at 5 Allied Drive, Little Rock. Children will receive free dental screenings and fluoride applications—no appointment needed! Enjoy storytime with the Tooth Fairy, a DJ dance party, face painting, and more. Don’t miss this fun-filled day promoting healthy smiles!
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.
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 5th Annual Pulaski County Fair, presented by Oaklawn Hot Springs, is coming back to North Little Rock Riverfront Park from May 16–26, 2025! The fair will feature carnival rides, live music, food, games, and special guests like Eddie Munster and his famous Dragula car. A portion of the proceeds will support North Little Rock Parks & Recreation. Learn more and plan your visit here.
The Rock City Film Festival, formerly the Made in Arkansas Film Festival, is returning to CALS Ron Robinson Theater from May 16-18, 2025. This annual event celebrates independent filmmakers with a diverse lineup of films, including comedies, documentaries, horror, and more. With something for everyone, it's an event you won’t want to miss. The festival offers complimentary parking and a variety of refreshments, making it the perfect destination for film enthusiasts! Get tickets here.
Join the fun at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts on May 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Family Fest: Young Arkansas Artists! Celebrate the 64th Young Arkansas Artists exhibition with hands-on art activities, from portrait drawing to pottery and sculpture. Families can explore studios, meet instructors, and learn more about upcoming art classes and camps. A perfect weekend outing to spark creativity for all ages!
"Me and the Devil"
Tickets are on sale now for the first production of The Rep's 2025 Summer Stage season, Me and the Devil. The world-premiere play with music is written and directed by The Rep's new Artistic Director, Little Rock-native and Broadway Director, Steve H. Broadnax III, who is also an LRSD alum. Parkview Patriot in the house!
Juneteenth in Da Rock 2025
Join the Little Rock community on June 21, 2025, for Juneteenth in Da Rock, a vibrant celebration of freedom, culture, and unity. Held in the Historic 9th Street District, this family-friendly festival features live music, a 5K run, food, art, and more. Learn more about the event here.
The Little Rock Farmers Market has opened its doors for another season, welcoming visitors to the River Market with its farm-fresh produce, locally crafted foods, and handmade arts and crafts. As it has since 1996, the market invites SNAP beneficiaries, offering tokens purchasable on-site and participating in the Double Up Food Bucks program. Free parking, including spaces for seniors and handicapped individuals, ensures convenient access for all patrons.
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