Live Feed | Pulaski County Special School District

Nearly 100 high school students from across PCSSD were sworn in on October 7 to participate in Teen Court, a program that gives students meaningful roles in a restorative approach to school discipline.

Teen Court differs from a traditional trial. It does not determine guilt or innocence. Instead, students who have violated school rules have an opportunity to take responsibility and address the harm their actions caused.

Students serving in Teen Court take on roles including judges, jurors and advocates. In PCSSD’s peer-jury model, students present cases, question respondents, deliberate and determine appropriate sanctions while an adult judge presides. Sanctions may include community service, writing or reflection assignments, and workshops or classes focused on conflict resolution, decision-making and life skills.

The process provides an alternative to disciplinary consequences that could otherwise remove students from instruction. Teachers, school resource officers and other school staff can refer cases involving violations that might result in suspension or other sanctions to Teen Court.

Students from Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School, Joe T. Robinson High School, Maumelle High School and Sylvan Hills High School participate in the program. Members take an oath of confidentiality and complete orientation and training before serving throughout the school year.

PCSSD developed its Teen Court model in partnership with Ark. Sen. Jamie Scott, Pulaski County Youth Services and Arkansas State Judge Mark Leverett for District 31,, students participating through a juvenile justice class and receiving class credit. Senator Scott has described PCSSD’s model as unique in Arkansas.

Studies indicate that participants are less likely to reoffend than teens in the traditional court system. Dr. Janice Warren, PCSSD assistant superintendent of Student Services, oversees the program and told students during the swearing-in ceremony, “Your school is going to be better because you are part of that Teen Court.”

about 5 hours ago, PCSSD

Students smiling while sitting down in teen court shirts

Student raising their hands in oath while wearing Teen Court PCSSD shirts

students raising their hands in a pledge

State Senator Jamie Scott addressing Teen Court

Fall Break for the Pulaski County Special School District is October 12-16. All schools will be closed during this time. For more information, check out the district website. https://www.pcssd.org/article/3172902

#ExpectBelieveSucceed

2 days ago, PCSSD

Graphic for Fall Break showing it is Oct 12 to 16

They may work behind the scenes, but their efforts are always visible. A huge thank you to the entire district custodial staff as we recognize and celebrate National Custodian Day. Thank you for the work you do to keep our schools, officies, and facilities clean and well maintained.

5 days ago, PCSSD

If you still need to purchase Chromebook insurance, the deadline is Tuesday, October 6. Go to this link for further information on coverage and ways to enroll online, by mail, or over the phone: https://www.pcssd.org/page/chromebook-insurance

6 days ago, PCSSD

English-language SmartTech Chromebook insurance flyer for PCSSD. The graphic outlines coverage for accidental damage, liquid damage, and loss or theft, compares costs without coverage, and includes instructions for signing up online, by phone, text message, or mail. Coverage costs $25 through June 30, 2027.

Spanish-language SmartTech Chromebook insurance flyer for PCSSD. The graphic explains coverage for accidental damage, liquid damage, and loss or theft, shows repair/replacement costs without coverage, and provides enrollment options online, by phone, text message, or mail. Coverage costs $25 through June 30, 2027.

In October, we're celebrating National Principals Month!

This morning, principals from across PCSSD gathered at Central Office for their regular monthly meeting and were surprised with a special "PCSSD Principal Fuel Station" featuring encouraging messages and healthy snacks to kick off the month-long celebration.

Throughout October, we'll be highlighting the outstanding leaders who serve our schools each day. Join us in thanking our hardworking principals for their dedication to students, staff, and the broader PCSSD community.

#ExpectBelieveSucceed

6 days ago, PCSSD

A tabletop display for the "PCSSD Principal Fuel Station." It includes a framed green sign reading "Fill a Grab Bag," a large ceramic red apple, black treat bags, and a poster featuring a retro gas pump labeled "PCSSD Principal Fuel Station."

A close-up view of fresh yellow bananas stacked in a wire basket, with encouraging handwritten messages written on their peels in black marker, including "Awesome!", "You Rock", and "Way to Grow!"

Two male principals sitting next to each other at a table, smiling at the camera. The principal on the left wears a maroon vest, plaid tie, striped shirt, and dark-rimmed glasses. The principal on the right wears a blue plaid button-down shirt with a name badge.

A principal wearing a black blazer and a Maumelle Middle shirt smiling as she reaches into a basket to grab a banana marked with an encouraging message. Other colleagues stand in the background near a table filled with breakfast items and snacks.

Two female school leaders smiling together at the fuel station. One holds a small green snack pack, while beverage tubs filled with ice, canned drinks, and water bottles sit in the background.

A group of school leaders browsing snacks at the fuel station table. In the foreground, a woman in a red sequined blazer grabs a snack bag, while another person wears a t-shirt that says "This MEETING is brought to you by the letter B." Baskets of snacks and fresh bananas sit on the table nearby.

Two female principals smiling together indoors in front of a presentation screen reading "Principal's Meeting". The woman on the left wears black-framed glasses, large gold earrings, and a black-and-white patterned top with a name badge. The woman on the right wears glasses and a light blue top.

A woman in a bright pink dress smiling as she reaches into a snack basket at a decorated table. In the foreground sits a small red toy wagon filled with wrapped treats alongside a basket of bananas.

A principal with gray hair and glasses smiling as he picks out snacks from a table display. In the foreground, woven baskets are filled with fresh oranges and bagged snacks, with an AVID banner hanging in the background.

Thank you to Bridging the Gap of Arkansas for donating 100 clear backpacks and lanyards, which will be divided among PCSSD middle schools for students who need them. Dr. Mona Todd, Barbara Pitts Riley, and Lexxie Collins traveled all the way from the NGO's headquarters in Texarkana to hand-deliver the gift. #ExpectBelieveSucceed

7 days ago, PCSSD

four people hold clear backpacks with Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas branding

a clear backpack, a lanyard, a coffee cup, and a paper with Bridging the Gap of Arkansas branding on a table

🔩 Steel Day 2026 gave Mills students a closer look at where their welding skills can take them.

🔰 Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School juniors and seniors in the Lexicon Academy of Advanced Manufacturing & Construction Welding Pathway got an inside look at the steel industry during Lexicon’s annual Steel Day, hosted with the American Welding Society (AWS) and the American Institute of Steel Construction.

👨‍🏭 Students toured Lexicon’s Little Rock River Port headquarters and put their welding skills to the test in a virtual welding competition for the opportunity to earn a $1,000 AWS welding scholarship.

⚙️Steel Day gives students a chance to connect their classroom experiences with real-world careers in welding, manufacturing and construction. Mills junior Mason Raggio interviewed with KARK & FOX16 News about the day, and the report airs tonight. #ExpectBelieveSucceed

7 days ago, PCSSD

Lexicon industry tour. A sign says quality.

A student speaks with a Lexicon employee

A student scored a 92 overall score on a welding simulator

a student interviewed by a television station.

A Mills teacher gives students instruction

Lexicon industry tour. An I Beam is in the foreground.

🔰🏈 The first-ever Lexicon Academy Night honored outstanding students and educators while showcasing the impact of career-focused partnerships at Mills University Studies High School. ⚙️🔥

It was a night of celebration, school spirit, and excellence under the Friday Night Lights during the Comets' football game against Maumelle High School. The evening celebrated the outstanding achievements of both educators and students in the Lexicon Academy of Advanced Manufacturing and Construction, highlighting the power of industry and education working together to prepare students for future careers.

The first Lexicon Academy Night was a memorable celebration of the partnership between Lexicon Inc. and Mills University Studies High School. Through meaningful industry partnerships, student recognition, and career exploration opportunities, Lexicon continues to help create pathways to student success. #ExpectBelieveSucceed

8 days ago, PCSSD

A student waves while being recognized during Lexicon Academy Night as fellow students and community partners stand together at midfield before the football game.

A representative presents a commemorative cap during Lexicon Academy Night as educators and industry partners participate in the recognition ceremony on the football field.

Students, educators, military representatives, and industry partners line up at midfield during the first-ever Lexicon Academy Night recognition ceremony at Mills University Studies High School.

Students and representatives participating in Lexicon Academy Night stand on the football field during a recognition ceremony at Mills University Studies High School.

Students, educators, and community partners stand at midfield during Lexicon Academy Night as participants are recognized before the Mills Comets football game.

A student in the Lexicon Academy of Advanced Manufacturing and Construction waves to the crowd while being recognized during Lexicon Academy Night at Mills University Studies High School.

Get ready to celebrate AVID Wednesday by wearing your AVID shirt, college gear, or career wear tomorrow!

AVID builds college- and career-ready students at every grade level. Take some time to read how some PCSSD students say AVID is making a difference in their education. #ExpectBelieveSucceed

8 days ago, PCSSD

A large group of students stands together in a classroom holding completed "Because of AVID, I..." reflection sheets. The students display a variety of responses describing how AVID has helped them develop academic skills, ask questions, improve note-taking, set goals, and build confidence. The photo showcases student participation in the school's AVID reflection activity.

A collection of "Because of AVID, I..." reflection sheets is arranged on a tabletop. The handwritten responses from students and staff describe how AVID has helped with note-taking, goal setting, academic achievement, confidence, organization, and staying focused on grades. Each sheet features the #MyAVIDWhy message and reflects personal growth through AVID.

Four elementary students and one staff member pose in a school hallway in front of a display of student work. The wall features vocabulary posters, space-themed decorations, and motivational star signs with encouraging messages. The group stands together beneath the student work showcase, highlighting a positive learning environment and student achievement.

A student stands beside an AVID mission poster while holding a "Because of AVID, I..." reflection sheet. The handwritten response shares that AVID has helped the student earn good grades and stay focused on schoolwork. Surrounding wall displays include AVID materials and school information posters that reinforce college and career readiness.

Three staff members stand together in a school hallway near an elevator, holding clipboards, folders, and other materials. The group is participating in an AVID activity and is surrounded by school safety equipment and hallway displays. The photo highlights staff engagement and support for schoolwide AVID initiatives.

A student stands in front of an AVID mission poster and holds a "Because of AVID, I..." reflection sheet. The handwritten response reads, "Communicate better with people." Additional school posters about student readiness and school policies are displayed on the wall behind the student.

🎓 Arkansas Virtual Financial Aid Night: Oct. 8 🎓
Securing funding for a college, university, or technical school is a crucial step in planning for further education after high school. PCSSD is sharing information regarding the upcoming Arkansas Virtual Financial Aid Night, hosted by the Arkansas Student Loan Authority (ASLA) and the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.
📌 Event Details
🗓️ Date: Thursday, October 8
⏰ Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Virtual (Zoom)
💡 Resources & What Will Be Covered
💻 FAFSA Application Guidance → Overview for studentaid.gov
🎓 State Grants & ADHE Scholarships → Application steps via sams.adhe.edu
🎁 ASLA Scholarship Drawing → Attendees can enter for a chance to win a scholarship!
🗓️ 1-on-1 FAFSA Assistance → Links to schedule dedicated help sessions
🚀 How to Participate
📘 Free Pay-for-College Guidebook → Download for students and order forms for counselors
👉 To register or ask questions, click here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBdrCf8M6EkIhAca_SbvGCQNZ6hHKEcYdWATzV1Migb-SSow/viewform
#ExpectBelieveSucceed

9 days ago, PCSSD

Promotional flyer for the “Arkansas Virtual Financial Aid Information Night” titled “How to Pay for College!” The design uses bright green, blue, and white colors with icons of a graduation cap, calendar, and clock. Text highlights the event date (October 8, 2026), start time (6:30 PM), and speakers Alisha Lewis from the Arkansas Division of Higher Education and Lavonne Juhl from ASLA College Planning Services. A banner notes that attendees can win one of two $1,000 scholarships. The flyer encourages students to register and join virtually to learn about state and federal financial aid programs and tips for planning college costs. If you want a shorter or longer version, or one optimized for social media character limits, I can generate that too.

Statement regarding employee taken into custody

PCSSD is aware of an employee being taken into custody by the Sherwood Police Department today. While we are unable to comment on district personnel matters, the situation is under review according to appropriate district policy and process, and the district will take any necessary and appropriate actions according to district policies. The safety and wellbeing of our students, teachers, and staff remains our main priority, and we will continue working to maintain a safe environment on our campuses.

12 days ago, PCSSD

Mills University Studies High School's JROTC Program recently received its Certificate for earning the prestigious Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) award for the 2025/2026 school year for demonstrating exceptional performance in all areas of the JROTC Program. This recognition is proof that the JROTC program is effective in motivating young people to be better citizens.
#ExpectBelieveSucceed

12 days ago, PCSSD

Photo collage highlighting the Mills University Studies High School JROTC program, including cadets in uniform during training and ceremonies, a color guard, an archery activity, a military formation, and a close-up of a Mills JROTC uniform patch. The center of the collage features the program’s U.S. Army JROTC Honor Unit with Distinction certificate for the 2025–2026 school year.

🎵 More than 150 PCSSD students sharpened their skills together at a districtwide All‑Region preparatory workshop this past weekend! 🎶

Sylvan Hills Junior High’s choir hosted singers from Mills Middle, Robinson High, Robinson Middle, and Sylvan Hills Middle schools. The extra reps built confidence ahead of All‑Region auditions on October 3. Good luck!
#ExpectBelieveSucceed

12 days ago, PCSSD

A choir stands in rows holding music folders while an instructor with beaded hair conducts at the front; colorful posters and photos cover the back wall.

A group of students sit in a large circle of chairs in a band room while an instructor stands and leads discussion; percussion instruments and “The Pride of the Hillside Band” mural are visible in the background.

Students sit on tiered risers holding music folders while a conductor stands in front with a baton; plaques and windows showing school buses line the back wall.

Students stand among rows of black chairs holding papers or folders in a music rehearsal room with blue acoustic panels and a drum set in the back.

Students sit in a large circle of chairs while one student stands in the center reading from a tablet; the room has beige walls, acoustic panels, and pink tape X marks on the carpet.

A large group of high school choir students stand closely together in a music room, smiling for a group photo; blue acoustic panels and chairs surround them.

Congratulations to these current students recognized as College Board AP Scholars!

Each year, the College Board Advanced Placement Program (AP) recognizes high school students who have demonstrated outstanding college-level achievement through their performance on multiple AP Exams

During the May 2026 testing period, these students showed mastery on three or more exams.
🔗https://www.pcssd.org/article/3148884
#ExpectBelieveSucced

13 days ago, PCSSD

A red‑and‑white hornet mascot appears in the top left above the heading “Congrats! AP Scholars.” The graphic lists junior Charles McMahan and seniors Adam Csege, Mary Ervin, Claire Ferrell, Sophie Ferrell, Ella Furrey, Gavin Miguet, Finley Mobley, and Tatum Roberts.

A beige graphic with a black stylized “R” in the top left and the heading “Congrats! AP Scholars.” It lists seniors Shahd Abdulla and Waad Abdulla.

“C” US DIFFERENTLY

Our overall district letter grade has improved from a D to a C, and schools across the district have experienced some big progress.

Here’s what we mean:
🚀 4 schools jumped multiple grade levels
🏅 11 schools improved by at least one letter grade
📈 19 schools increased their overall accountability scores

We are proud of these achievements, and we are C-ing even greater things ahead!

#seeusdifferently #ExpectBelieveSucceed

14 days ago, PCSSD

A structured graphic graphic titled "School and District Letter Grades" displaying letter grade performance comparisons for Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) between 2025 and 2026. District Grade: Pulaski County Special School District: Improved from D in 2025 to C in 2026. Secondary Schools (2025 Grade → 2026 Grade): Joe T. Robinson Middle School: B → C Maumelle Middle School: F → F Mills Middle School: D → D Sylvan Hills Middle School: D → C Sylvan Hills Junior High: F → C Joe T. Robinson High School: F → C Maumelle High School: D → C Mills University Studies High: D → F Sylvan Hills High School: C → C Elementary Schools (2025 Grade → 2026 Grade): Cato Elementary: D → C Chenal Elementary: A → C Baker Elementary: B → B College Station Elementary: F → B Crystal Hill Elementary: C → C Daisy Bates Elementary: D → C Joe T. Robinson Elementary: C → D Landmark Elementary: C → B Lawson Elementary: D → C Oak Grove Elementary: F → C Oakbrooke Elementary: C → C Pine Forest Elementary: C → C Sherwood Elementary: B → B Sylvan Hills Elementary: C → C William J. Clinton Elementary: F → D

🍎📚 The Arkansas Department of Education is hosting a "Pathways to the Profession: How to Become a Teacher Licensure Fair" on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, from 3 to 7 p.m. Attendees can connect with educator preparation providers, learn about licensure requirements, and explore available supports and resources. 👩‍🏫👨‍🏫 #ExpectBelieveSucceed

15 days ago, PCSSD

Flyer advertising the teacher licensure fair

🍁🍂 Happy first day of Fall! 🍂🍁
Today is the first meteorological day of fall, with cooler temperatures and autumn colors ahead. Which season is your favorite?

15 days ago, PCSSD

It is already more than halfway through the first quarter, which means it is a good time to check in on student progress! Log in to the Home Access Center anytime at hac23.esp.k12.ar.us to view grades, attendance, and more. #ExpectBelieveSucceed

16 days ago, PCSSD

Celebrating National AVID Day at PCSSD!

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is an academic support program that prepares students for college eligibility and long-term success. AVID equips students starting in elementary school to plan ahead, stay organized, and set goals with intention through daily classroom strategies like focused note-taking, inquiry, and collaboration. The effort continues through graduation with college campus visits for older students.

Check out the photos to see our Central Office staff showing support today for #AVID and our students' bright futures!
#NationalAVIDDay #ExpectBelieveSucceed

19 days ago, PCSSD

Two staff members wearing matching grey AVID t-shirts review a document together at an office desk.

one personA PCSSD staff member wearing a grey AVID t-shirt reaches into a storage crate filled with technology equipment inside a workroom.

A staff member wearing a grey AVID t-shirt speaks on the phone while working at her desk in front of a computer screen.

Two PCSSD staff members wearing matching grey AVID t-shirts smile for the camera in an office setting.

Three PCSSD Central Office staff members wearing grey AVID t-shirts smile together behind a reception counter.

A PCSSD staff member wearing glasses and a grey AVID t-shirt smiles directly at the camera from behind her office desk.

Bridgette and Alexus are the Department of Safety and Security officers at PCSSD Central Office, and they are the first faces anyone meets when visiting administration.

You'll rarely find them out of uniform, but today they are celebrating National #AVID Day with the rest of the district.

Please join in celebrating these security officers for National Security Officer Appreciation Week. #ExpectBelieveSucceed

19 days ago, PCSSD

Bridgette and Alexus are the Department of Safety and Security officers at the PCSSD Central Office