Superintendent Jeff Senn visited Sylvan Hills Elementary to recognize Principal Britney Hickman during National Principals Month. He presented her with a certificate of appreciation for her dedicated leadership.

#ExpectBelieveSucceed

about 3 hours ago, PCSSD
Superintendent Senn presents a certificate of appreciation to Principal Britney Hickman
Superintendent Senn presents a certificate of appreciation to Principal Britney Hickman
Every child deserves to get to and from school safely. As we recognize National School Bus Safety Week, remember you are an important part of the total safety awareness program for students who travel to and from school by bus — not just this week, but every day.
🚸 Observe these important safety tips:
👀 Watch for children near bus stops, along roadways and when crossing the street.
🛑 Stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended.
📵 Stay focused and avoid distractions while driving.
🐢 Slow down in school zones and residential areas where children may be present.
Find more bus safety information at PCSSD.org/page/bus-safety-information
#NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek #ExpectBelieveSucceed
12 days ago, PCSSD
Graphic promoting school bus safety, featuring the message “Safety Starts With You” above an illustration of the rear of a yellow school bus with an extended stop sign. Four safety reminders encourage drivers to watch for children near bus stops, never pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing, stay focused and avoid distractions while driving, and slow down in school zones and residential areas. The graphic directs viewers to PCSSD.org/Page/Bus-Safety-Information for more information.
Bear Family Reminders!

Red Ribbon Week: October 26–30! Spirit items go home tomorrow. Check the Dojo flyer for daily dress-up themes and activities.

Boograms: On sale through October 27!

AVID T-Shirts: Last day to order is Friday, October 23!

Thank you for your support!
14 days ago, Britney Hickman

📚 AVID Wednesday! 🎓

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) helps students build the skills they need for success in school and beyond. From collaborative learning and inquiry-based activities to organized note-taking and interactive notebooks, AVID strategies encourage students to think critically, stay organized, and work together to reach their goals.
#AVID #ExpectBelieveSucceed

14 days ago, PCSSD
A group of students wearing college-themed shirts gathers around a classroom rocking chair during a college and career readiness activity.
A group of students stands on a university football field during a college visit, holding bags and posing near the sideline as part of a college and career exploration experience.
Two students hold open interactive notebooks showing highlighted notes and completed classwork as examples of organized learning and note-taking strategies.
Students seated around a classroom table display their AVID binders during a lesson. Three students hold personalized binders labeled "AVID Binder 2026-2027," highlighting an organizational tool used to support note-taking, goal-setting, and academic success. Classroom learning materials and educational displays are visible in the background.
Four students sit on a classroom rug working together with colorful square tiles to create and compare shapes during a collaborative math activity.
October is National Principals Month! Today, we are celebrating Britney Hickman of Sylvan Hills Elementary. Thank you for helping PCSSD students and staff #ExpectBelieveSucceed.
20 days ago, PCSSD
A collage image of Britney Hickman, Principal of Sylvan Hills Elementary, that says "Happy Principals Month" with the PCSSD logo.
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.
about 1 month ago, PCSSD
Grpahic for National Custodian Day
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
about 1 month ago, PCSSD
Graphic promoting Chromebook insurance enrollment. A student is shown working on a Chromebook inside a large laptop illustration with the message, “Chromebook Insurance: Sign Up by Tuesday, October 6!” displayed above.
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
about 1 month 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.
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
about 1 month 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.
“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
about 1 month 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

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

about 1 month ago, PCSSD
Graphic taped to a background of blue school lockers titled "Time to Check Grades! Already half way through the first quarter!" PCSSD logo appears in the top left. The main text reads: "As a district, we are no longer printing interim grade reports. But you can access your student's grades 24 hours a day all year long!" A numbered list follows: 1. Go to HAC (Home Access Center) - hac23.esp.k12.ar.us 2. Select PCSSD. 3. Log in and check grades, attendance, and more! Bottom text adds: "If you have any questions or need assistance, call your school and ask for the registrar."
These PCSSD Department of Safety and Security officers watch over the Sylvan Hills High School feeder pattern of schools.

Please join in celebrating these security officers for National Security Officer Appreciation Week. #ExpectBelieveSucceed
about 2 months ago, PCSSD
Sylvan feeder pattern safety and security department personnel
This Friday, we will celebrate AVID Day, joining schools across the country in recognizing the impact of educators and students working together to expand access and opportunity. At Pulaski County Special School District, AVID strengthens skills like critical thinking, organization, collaboration, and self-advocacy, helping students prepare for college, careers, and beyond. We are proud of the growth we see every day and grateful for the shared commitment that makes it possible. #MyAVIDWhy #ExpectBelieveSucceed
about 2 months ago, PCSSD
AVID DAY
Schools and district offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. Students will return to school on Tuesday, September 8, and all district offices will also be open.
2 months ago, PCSSD
A cartoon sign says "no school for students Monday, September 7" with the PCSSD logo
A cartoon sign says, "district offices will be closed Monday, September 7"
Strong schools rely on strong leadership. PCSSD principals spent their morning at Central Office to collaborate, connect, and continue preparing for a successful year across our schools. #ExpectBelieveSucceed
2 months ago, PCSSD
a man in a bow tie speaking to a room of principals
three principals collaborating
three principals talking and laughing
a room ful of principals and administrators learning
Principals listening in a meeting
Principals smiling in a meeting
🎨The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA) recently announced “The AMFA Classroom,” a free education program launching at Sylvan Hills Elementary School and two other local schools during the 2026-2027 school year. AMFA also unveiled a new campaign, “More Than a Museum,” positioning the museum as a cultural destination for both locals and tourists and an economic driver for Arkansas. 📚
🔗 Read more: https://www.pcssd.org/article/3087794
2 months ago, PCSSD
Banners say more than a museum within the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
a woman at a podium. The podium says AMFA
A group photo of officials representing three schools within the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
A screen in the background says More than a Museum AMFA. People in the foreground are looking toward it.
👕 AVID Wednesday returns each week!
AVID builds a college‑ready mindset where students plan ahead, stay organized, and set goals with intention. These habits show up in AVID strategies across classrooms, from focused note‑taking to inquiry and collaboration.

Lay out your favorite college or career shirt tonight and sport it proudly Wednesday #ExpectBelieveSucceed
🔗 Learn more about AVID: https://www.pcssd.org/page/avid
3 months ago, PCSSD
Two people wearing AVID shirts
A person wearing an AVID shirt.
A person wearing an AVID shirt and Texaco hat while holding a ladder.
Two people wearing college shirts
A person wearing an HBCU shirt.
Two people wearing college shirts
Two people wearing college shirts
Three people wearing AVID shirts.
A person wearing a college shirt.
Four people wearing college shirts in a classroom.
We are so thankful to have internet service restored today, but teachers made the most of yesterday while it was down. Here are two examples from Sylvan Hills Elementary.

In Mrs. Puckett's class, students walked around to music and when it stopped, they had to work a problem on the desk in front of them.

In Mrs. Yingling's class, they used multiple role-playing scenarios, including the telephone game, to reinforce communication skills such as eye contact, body language, respect and conflict resolution.
3 months ago, PCSSD
multiple school problems on a page with a pencil on a desk and a student thinking about what to do.
Students and a teacher standing around working on communication skills
multiple school problems on a page with a pencil on a desk and students thinking about what to do.
Each week during the school year, we participate in AVID Wednesday. Staff and students wear their favorite college or career shirt to show where their goals can take them. 🎓👕💼 #ExpectBelieveSucceed

🔗 Learn more about AVID in our schools with this link: https://www.pcssd.org/page/avid
3 months ago, PCSSD
A photo of a crowd of educators looking upward and smiling with their college and career shirts on.
We had a wonderful first day of school! Superintendent Jeff Senn and other PCSSD Central Office administrators checked in on the entire Sylvan Hills Feeder system today, so they also started off the new school year strong! #ExpectBelieveSucceed #GoBears
3 months ago, PCSSD
A group of children and a teacher walking through a decorated school hallway with balloons and banners.
Two people looking at a colorful mural on the side of a building.
Hallway with students, adults, and a sign reading "You Belong Here".
A middle-aged man with gray hair and a beard, wearing a striped shirt, standing in front of a playful background with colorful space-themed decor.
Crowded school hallway with students standing at lockers and walking through the corridor, colorful posters on the walls.