SUMMER CAMP IS BACK ON!
Pulaski County Special School District serves nearly 12,000 students in Pulaski County covering more than 600 square miles. Across this expansive county, PCSSD boasts four high schools in three different cities -- Joe T. Robinson High School and Mills University Studies High School in Little Rock, Maumelle High School in Maumelle and Sylvan Hills High School in Sherwood. As we reflect one last time on the 2021-2022 school year, we want to send a special message to our graduating seniors - the class of 2022. The following messages are from each of the high school principals.
JOE T. ROBINSON HIGH SCHOOL
MAUMELLE HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2022, The 2021-2022 school year has been a refreshing change from the past two years. Even with a second wave of a Covid variant, we have been able to get back to pre-pandemic life. I personally have enjoyed seeing your smiling faces in the hallways, not hidden behind protective masks. You have been through some challenges during your high school years. Every one of you had to endure at least one obstacle over the past four years. Those challenges have shaped you into the person you are today. Those challenges will remain with you into adulthood and continue to shape the person you will become. Always remember how strong you are for all that you have experienced. As you move on into adulthood, remember the lessons you learned as a student at Robinson High School. Know your why and set goals for yourself to attain your dreams. Make excellence your expectation in everything you do. Give 100% of yourself on a daily basis. Lastly, always remember it is a great day to be a Senator! The Class of 2022 experienced plenty of high points: • 4 seniors scored high enough to join the ACT 30+ Club • This year we had 5 students accepted into Governor’s School • Over the course of four years, we had multiple championships in football, baseball, track, cross country, and girls soccer. Additionally, our student-athletes received high achievement for individuals in golf, as well as wrestling and cheerleading. • Our Robinson football team was honored at the State Capitol • RHS Singing Senators earned a Superior Rating at Assessment • First Robinson Student to win a seat in the Arkansas Youth Symphony Orchestra • Highest number of concurrent credit students • 3rd place in Original Oratory, at Bentonville Tiger Classic, Forensics Competition I am proud to be part of your Robinson High story and serve as your principal for this year. I’m blessed to have known some of you since elementary school. It has been an honor to be a small part of your lives and I look forward to watching you navigate through what life has to offer. Go Senators!
Dear MHS Seniors ‘22, Congratulations on being a member of the 11th graduating class from Maumelle High School! You join an elite group of over 2,500 Hornet alumni that can call themselves graduates of MHS. This is truly a time of celebration for not only you but for your family, friends, community, and teachers who have poured into you and helped you along your journey. While this chapter is now complete, your story is far from over. As you move into the next chapter of your life, my hope is that you do not become defined by labels but embrace a spirit of service to your fellow humans. Society will want to define you and put you in a box but you are so much more than the work you do or some other label. Become involved in your community and give back so others can “label” you a volunteer, a giver, a servant. Never fail to acknowledge the most important labels you will ever hold: father, mother, spouse, friend. Continue to be “indefinable” but be sure the labels placed upon you are those that speak to who you really are. Labels not only have the power to build you and others up but they can quickly destroy the story you are telling. In closing, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your story. You are my first graduating class here at MHS and you will always hold a special place in my heart. l wish you well, I wish you the best life has to offer, and I wish you continued blessings. Regardless of where life takes you, I hope that you will always be proud to call yourself an alumni of the Maumelle High School family. Go Hornets!
Dr. Jason Pickering, Principal SYLVAN HILLS HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2022, The Class of ‘22 will do big things after departing the hallways of SHHS. Regardless of the obstacles you were plagued with, the Class of 2022 has been a special class. We have SEVENTY students from your class that are Honor Graduates with at least a 3.5 grade point average. You produced several Governor’s Distinguished recipients and a National Merit winner. For many, you have conquered private challenges we could never have predicted. You all have truly excelled in outlandish times and because of that, the Class of 2022 has cemented itself as extraordinary. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors! Go Bears! Mr. Tracy Allen, Principal
Yours truly, Mr. Jason Young, Principal MILLS UNIVERSITY STUDIES HIGH SCHOOL Dear Comets Class of 2022, Wow. We are here. I hope that you can find some valuable memories and experiences that you have had as high school students. Now we look up and we find people that get caught up in the mix every day in every way but the right. We can’t run from reality luring us closer away to the same old snares and traps. We learn from our mistakes. Nevertheless, hopefully, all of the experiences have been teachable moments and learning experiences for us. We wear our failures and accomplishments with pride. Comet Nation! There is no I in TEAM; what side are you on? I challenge you to seize the moment. Do not discount challenges good or bad. Hopefully, there have been times that you relish the fact you have benefited from the life lessons. Embrace the awkward. Also, be persistent, for instance, do not let Instagram and the tv screen come in between your daily routines of you seeking the hidden treasure in pure literature. Looking back, I ponder these questions: Have we set them up for success? Did they truly know that we cared for them? Who is your favorite teacher of all time? What educator changed your life? What characteristics separated that person from others? Comet Nation, there is no life worth living without generosity. Do justice and love mercy. Remember these things: plant, plan, prioritize, and live life on purpose. Mr. Duane Clayton, Principal
MAY 2022 NEWS & NOTES HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
May 8
What do you want most for Mother’s Day? A nap? A stolen moment alone? An elbow macaroni necklace? How about Mother’s Day Brunch at the Little Rock Zoo?! Can you say omelet station?! There will also be live music, special animal ambassador encounters and an activity for kids. 8:30-10:30 a.m., reservations required. littlerockzoo.com/ extra-fun/events/
DON’T MISS OUT! MORE ZOO NEWS
Things are hoppin’ (and slinking, and running, and gamboling ) at the Zoo. You’ll want to add these to your calendar:
MAY 5, CINCO DE RHINO (adults only) MAY 14, BREAKFAST WITH A TWIST (the twist? A colobus monkey!)
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?
May 21, 10 a.m.-noon
May Growing Community Garden Workday & Workshop at the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library & Learning Center is open to kids, teens and adults. This is an outdoor event, so dress for the weather.
FUN ON THE GO
CALS has some great Grab & Go Activity Kits this month (all while supplies last). Among them “Watermelon Fan & Maze,” “Sunprints,” “Beaded Flip Flops & Friendship Bracelets,” “Fish CD.” Check cals.org for details.
May 20 NATIONAL PICK STRAWBERRIES DAY
FOR BUDDING NATURALISTS
May 24 A DIFFERENT KIND OF K-POP
NATIONAL SCAVENGER HUNT DAY
May 21, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; May 22, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Come see the imaginative world Doodle POP creates as mischievous duo Woogie and Boogie bring doodles to life in this one-of-a-kind show. Accompanied by live musicians and interactive screen projections, their live whiteboard drawings and hysterical antics will delight audiences ages 3 and up. Produced by South Korea’s BRUSH Theatre, Doodle POP has performed at theaters and festivals all over the world. This is the last stop of their first U.S. tour. Run time is 50 minutes. $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers.(CALS Ron Robinson Theater)
Pinnacle Mountain State Park offers lots of fun kids’ programming this month. Join popular park interpreter Kellie for “Little Birds With Big Character” (learn the ways of hummingbirds), “Be Snake Smart” (learn to identify and avoid the venomous types) and “Disney Animals” (find out which of your favorite Disney animals live in the park). Check the park’s website for times.
Y’ALL’S FAIR ...
SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER!
May 27
Last day for LRSD!
May 25-29
In its second year, The Pulaski County Fair will include PBJ Happee Days Shows carnival midway, rides, games, vendors, food, drink (adult and otherwise), a petting zoo, live entertainment, contests and more. (Riverfront Park, North Little Rock)
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2022
Summer is fast approaching, which means it’s camp time! And though it’s hard to believe, there are those among us who have yet to sign up (no judgment). Here’s a lastminute guide. From science to sports, from the arts to academics, there’s something for everyone. At this point, “register soon!” goes without saying.
ACADEMICS/ENRICHMENT/STEAM
SUMMER LAUREATE UNIVERSITY FOR YOUTH (SLUFY) AT UALR 2801 S. University Ave., Little Rock 501-916-3410 giftedcenter@ualr.edu, ualr.edu/slufy/ Dates: July 11-22 Grades: K-6 Cost: $350 SLUFY is a perennial favorite among kids and parents. As usual, there is a wide variety of engaging courses in math, engineering, science, the arts, social studies, language arts and more — in addition to 22 new classes! OTHERS TO CHECK OUT: ARKANSAS REGIONAL INNOVATION HUB Dates: 8 a.m.-noon June-July Ages: 8-14 LIFE LAUNCH & HENDRIX COLLEGE Dates: June 5-10 Grades: Rising high school juniors and seniors TASHA TEACHES SPANISH CAMP UNIDAD Dates: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., June 13-17 and June 20-24, Grades: K-3
UCA CAMPS Dates: June-July Grades: Elementary-High School Also at UALR ... ENGINEERING SCHOLARS PROGRAM Dates: June 12-18 Grades: 8-11 Also at UALR ... TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING INSTITUTE Dates: June 12-24 Grades: 8-11 ZOOFARI AT THE LITTLE ROCK ZOO Dates: 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., June-July Ages: 5-14
THE ARTS
THE REP 601 Main St., Little Rock 501-378-0405 therep.org/classes-and-camps/, education@therep.org Technical Theatre: Rising ninth-12th grades Musical Theatre Conservatory: Rising ninth-12th grades, plus 2022 high school graduates Musical Theatre: Rising sixth-eighth grades Dates: July Costs: Varied. Full and partial need-based scholarships and
Same-day shipping when you order online at:
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Learn about Little Rock’s celebrated Akbash guardian dogs at Heifer Village & Urban Farm Read the captivating story of sheep guardian dogs Sam and Uno in this beautifully illustrated book for dog lovers of all ages. Learn how this special breed of Akbash guardians work as a team to protect the sheep in their charge. Introduced to the wary sheep at Little Rock’s own Heifer Village and Urban Farm, Sam and Uno prove themselves in a frightening episode. These dependable guardian dogs earn a place in the hearts of the sheep...and they’ll win your heart as well. Learn how guardian dogs Sam and Uno were trained to protect herd animals in this unique, training manual by Dr. An Peischel, a world-renowned small ruminant specialist and breeder of guardian dogs. With more than 30 years managing guardian dogs to protect her commercial and registered goats, Peischel has vast experience in the selection, facilitation and use of these animals. In this book Peischel hones in on the particulars of using these dogs with goats. Whatever one’s uses for guardian dogs, this book is chock-full of important information for putting these animals in service. Buy your autographed copy of Sam and Uno and Guardian Dogs for Goats among the many selections of books for dog and pet lovers of all ages at DogTalkTV. Same-day shipping when you order online at:
DogTalkTV.com/PatBecker-Books/
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2022 ADVERTORIAL
Ballet Arkansas Summer Dance Programs www. balletarkansas.org/summer-programs (501) 223-5150 | Little Rock, AR
Dates: June 13 - August 6 Ages: 4-21 Cost: Varies per program Ballet Arkansas offers a variety of summer dance programs for ages 4 and up this summer. Take your training to the next level with Ballet Arkansas professional dancers and renowned guest faculty, small class sizes, individualized attention, and multidisciplinary training. Story Time Dance Camp | Age 4-6 | June 13-17 | $150 From “Sleeping Beauty” to “Swan Lake,” dancers will explore beloved fairy tales and classical ballets through dance classes, storytelling, and a final showcase for family and friends. Junior Intensive | Age 7-9 | June 20-24 | $225 | 2-3 yr dance training recommended Join Ballet Arkansas for a fun-filled week of dance training! Students will make new friends, hone their technique, learn choreography in a variety of disciplines, and perform a showcase on Friday for family and friends. Summer Intensive Boot Camp | Ages 10-21 | June 20-24 | $350 | 3-5 yr dance training recommended Strengthen your dance training with a series of intensive masterclasses to boost your technique and improve your artistry over the course of a single week! Summer Intensive | Ages 10-21 | July 25-August 6 | $750 This two-week program provides students with opportunities to train in multiple disciples at the highest level, with a distinguished faculty and celebrated guest professionals. *Masks Optional. Learn more and enroll today at www. balletarkansas.org/summer-programs Learn more about enrolled classes for adults at www. balletarkansas.org/enrolled-classes.
payment plans are available upon application. Calling all theater kids! Join The Rep for one or more weeklong camps this July, for students in sixth-eighth grades and ninth12th grades. All applications are due by May 24. OTHERS TO CHECK OUT: ACTING UP! AT ARGENTA COMMUNITY THEATER — SOLD OUT! WAITING LIST AVAILABLE! ARKANSAS CIRCUS ARTS Dates: June 6-30 Ages: babies to teens! WILDWOOD ACADEMY OF MUSIC & THE ARTS (WAMA) Arts + Nature Camps Dates: 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., June 6-10 and June 13-17 Ages: 7-12 Visual Arts + Nature Camp Dates: June 20-24 ZIG ZAG Dates: June-July Ages: 4-11 plus
FAITH
FRIENDSHIP CAMP The Interfaith Center/St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church 20900 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock 501-821-1311 friendshipcamp@gmail.com,theinterfaithcenter.org/ friendshipcamp Dates: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 27-July 1 Grades: rising third-sixth graders Cost: $75 for the first child, $60 for each additional sibling. Scholarships available. Friendship Camp is a weeklong day camp aimed at building friendships among children of different religions and learning about and honoring those faith traditions in the world. This year, campers will learn about the “superheroes” of the world’s faiths through a mix of interactive classes and activities. The goal is to foster a lifelong attitude of love, empathy and inter-cultural peacemaking. Monday-Thursday, children participate in sports, music, art, meditation, reflection and prayer. On Friday, they get to visit various places of worship around Little Rock.
COOKING
KIDS COOK! Eggshells 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. K, Little Rock 501-664-6900 eggshellskitchencompany.com Dates: 9 a.m.-noon and 1:30-4:30 p.m. July 25-29 Ages: 9-12 Cost: $300 Campers will receive hands-on training in the kitchen along with cooking and food preparation skills.
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2022 NATURE
LAKE NIXON 18500 Cooper Orbit Road, Little Rock 501-744-8878 msimmons@2bclr.com, lakenixon.com Dates: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., June 6-Aug. 5 Grades: 1-9 Cost: tiered pricing Kids return to Lake Nixon summer camp year after year for good reason. It’s classic camp fun in a beautiful, safe setting. Think: canoeing, games, making friends, exploring, Gaga Ball. Lower Camp is for children who are going into first grade through sixth grade; Upper Camp is for children who are going into seventh grade through ninth grade.Bus service is available to campers for $25 a week. OTHERS TO CHECK OUT: AOS SUMMER DAY CAMPS & 4-H Dates: June 6-July 29 Ages: 8-13 FERNCLIFF Dates: June 5-Aug. 12 Ages: 4-18
SPECIAL NEEDS
CAMP HEALING HEARTS Camp Aldersgate 501-537-3991 MethodistFamily.org, dward@methodistfamily.org Date: 8 a.m., May 2 Ages: 5-18 Cost: Free After a two-year break due to the pandemic, Methodist Family Health’s Camp Healing Hearts is back with a day camp for Arkansas children and families struggling with grief. Coordinated by Kaleidoscope Grief Center, the camp is open to any family who is grieving the death of a loved one. Utilizing both therapy and recreation, Camp Healing Hearts offers children and families an opportunity to discover their own inner strength. The camp includes heart-to-heart time, swimming, fishing, crafts, games, campfires and s’mores and much more. An adult caregiver is required to accompany the child or children attending. Only 100 spaces are available, so those interested are encouraged apply before May 5. OTHERS TO CHECK OUT: CAMP ALDERSGATE Dates: Weekly camps from June-August Ages: 6-18
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2022
T H I S S U M M E R , AG E ! TAKE CENTER ST
SPORTS
LITTLE ROCK CLIMBING CENTER 12120 Colonel Glenn Road, #7000 Little Rock 501-227-9500 littlerockclimbingcenter.com Dates: 9 a.m-noon, June-July Ages: 7-12 Cost: $160.55 Ninja Climbing Camps are the perfect opportunity for kids to learn the basics of indoor rock climbing and get started in a new sport that they can enjoy for a lifetime. Ninjas will learn the fundamentals of climbing and bouldering in a chill, safe environment. OTHERS TO CHECK OUT: BEYOND SPORTS LAB Dates: Wednesdays Ages: 4+
Middle school and high school
2022 SUMMER CAMPS ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE www.TheRep.org/classes-and-camps
FITS MEET BRANDON: LINEWORKER, CROSSFIT ATHLETE, WARRIOR
“It’s all 'bout what you do when you get up.” READ MORE ABOUT BRANDON CRAWFORD AFTER HE REALIZED THAT HE COULD ACCOMPLISH WHATEVER HE WANTED AT
SNELLARKANSAS.COM
RESTORING MOBILITY AND INDEPENDENCE SINCE 1911
Little Rock n Bryant n Conway n Fayetteville n Fort Smith n 800-342-5541 Hot Springs n Mountain Home n North Little Rock n Pine Bluff n Russellville
UNITY MARTIAL ARTS Dates: 8 a.m.-3pm, June-July Grades: K-8
PLEASE CHECK OUT EACH PROGRAMS’ WEBSITES TO LEARN MORE INFORMATION!
SAVVY kids Brooke Wallace, Publisher, brooke@arktimes.com Katherine Wyrick, Editor, katherinewyrick@arktimes.com Lesa Thomas, Senior Account Executive, lesa@arktimes.com FIND MORE AT SAVVYKIDSAR.COM