The Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) is proud to announce the continuation of its partnership with the Academies of Central Arkansas, now strengthened by the launch of the Academies of Central Arkansas Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to serve as the long-term convening organization for this transformative work across all four public school districts in Pulaski County.
The Academies model connects high school students to college and career pathways through immersive, hands-on learning experiences, supported by robust partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and higher education institutions. The newly established Foundation will coordinate regional efforts, secure resources, and expand business and community engagement to benefit students in PCSSD and its partner districts.
The Academies of PCSSD include Joe T. Robinson High School, Maumelle High School, Mills University Studies High School, and Sylvan Hills High School.
“The creation of the Academies of Central Arkansas Foundation is a critical step in ensuring that our students have access to real-world learning opportunities that prepare them for life after graduation,” said Jeff Senn, Superintendent of PCSSD. “This partnership has already made a measurable difference for our students, and we are thrilled to continue building on that success.”
Bobby Gosser, President & CEO at Baldwin & Shell Construction Company and Board Chairman for the Academies of Central Arkansas Foundation, shared his excitement for the future of the program: “The Academies model is not just changing the way we educate—it’s changing the way our business community invests in its future. Through the Foundation, we can align business, education, and community leaders to ensure every student has the skills, experiences, and confidence to thrive in their chosen path.”
Markous Jewett, President & CEO of the Academies of Central Arkansas Foundation, emphasized the role of the new nonprofit: “Our mission is to be the bridge between our schools and the broader community. By convening business leaders, educators, and community partners, we can ensure every student in Pulaski County has access to meaningful, career-connected learning experiences that lead to success in both college and the workforce.”
From the district-level leadership, Kristin Herring, Director of Academies for PCSSD, noted the direct impact on students: "Since implementing the Academies model, we've seen our students engage with business professionals with remarkable confidence and purpose. The continuation of this partnership—and now the support from the Foundation—opens the door to even greater opportunities. We're excited to strengthen our business partnerships and give students real-world experiences that make learning truly come alive."
The Academies of Central Arkansas launched in 2019 and now serves students in the Little Rock, Jacksonville North Pulaski, North Little Rock, and Pulaski County Special School Districts. From the beginning, the Academies of Central Arkansas has been spearheaded by the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce. This work to better prepare young people for college, careers and life has brought together business, education, and community leaders to reimagine high school education. The Chamber remains a key strategic partner as the newly formed Academies of Central Arkansas Foundation works to ensure consistent, high-quality implementation of this education framework across all four districts. The Foundation will continue to secure long-term resources and further expand business and community engagement to increase the educational attainment level for all students.
Jay Chesshir, President & CEO of the Little Rock Regional Chamber, reflected on the Chamber’s ongoing role: “From day one, our goal has been to guarantee each high school student in Pulaski County has access to relevant and engaging education that connects them to real opportunities. This next step in creating the Academies of Central Arkansas Foundation ensures this work will continue to grow and thrive. Educators, business community, and civic leaders working side-by-side to prepare the next generation of leaders gives everyone the opportunity for success.”
For more information about the Academies of Central Arkansas and the work of the new Foundation, visit www.academiesofcentralarkansas.org.