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 2 hours 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
2 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.
“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
8 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

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

10 days 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."
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
15 days ago, PCSSD
AVID DAY
These PCSSD Department of Safety and Security officers watch over the Wilbur D. Mills University Studies High School feeder pattern of schools.

Please join in celebrating these security officers for National Security Officer Appreciation Week. #ExpectBelieveSucceed
16 days ago, PCSSD
Mills feeder pattern safety and security
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.
27 days 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
28 days 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
👕 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
about 1 month 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.
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
about 2 months ago, PCSSD
A photo of a crowd of educators looking upward and smiling with their college and career shirts on.

Please take a moment to review the district dress code and clear/mesh backpack policy so your student is ready for August 10: https://www.pcssd.org/page/back-to-school

about 2 months ago, PCSSD
"DRESS CODE" written on a clip art t-shirt with clip art hangers behind it.
The Smart Tech Chromebook insurance portal is now open for the 2026–27 school year. Families can purchase coverage anytime between now and October 6, 2026.

Coverage includes accidental damage, liquid damage, loss, and theft, with $0 deductible and unlimited claims (police report required for loss/theft claims).
Policy cost: $25, valid through June 30, 2027.

English & Spanish portals:
www.smarttechins.com/pulaski
www.smarttechins.com/pulaskistaff
about 2 months ago, PCSSD
"Chromebook Insurance" on a clip art laptop screen
PCSSD Smart Tech device coverage flyer. Shows coverage for accidental damage, liquid damage, loss, and theft with no deductible and unlimited claims. Repair prices without coverage: keyboard or touchpad $50, broken screen $90, total loss $300. States policy cost is $25 and expires June 30, 2027. Includes sign‑up methods: text PULASKI to 1‑888‑414‑8007, call 877‑307‑6777, register online at smarttechins.com/pulaski, or mail the printed form to Smart Tech Insurance in Lake Mary, Florida.
PCSSD Smart Tech device coverage flyer. Shows coverage for accidental damage, liquid damage, loss, and theft with no deductible and unlimited claims. Repair prices without coverage: keyboard or touchpad $50, broken screen $90, total loss $300. States policy cost is $25 and expires June 30, 2027. Includes sign‑up methods: text PULASKI to 1‑888‑414‑8007, call 877‑307‑6777, register online at smarttechins.com/pulaski, or mail the printed form to Smart Tech Insurance in Lake Mary, Florida.
🚌 Check bus numbers, stop locations, and times on our Back to School page: https://www.pcssd.org/page/back-to-school
about 2 months ago, PCSSD
"BUS ROUTES" on a clip art sign on a clip art road
👕 Not sure what to wear in the first week of school? Each Wednesday is easy! Pick a college or career shirt to join in on AVID Wednesday! 🩺
What is AVID? AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination. It is an academic support program that prepares students for college eligibility and success. Last year, PCSSD AVID seniors earned $9M in scholarships! #ExpectBelieveSucceed
about 2 months ago, PCSSD
AVID College & Career Wednesdays Wear a college or career shirt with decorated shirts and logos for AVID and PCSSD
Teachers and students in a hallway smiling with college shirts on
upper classmen smiling with college shirts on
Students in Carti garb giving care to baby doll mannequins
🏫 Meet the school leaders who will help our students expect, believe and succeed this year!

Welcome these new and returning principals and assistant principals, as well as deans of students, for 2026-2027.

🔗 View the complete list: https://www.pcssd.org/article/3059037
#ExpectBelieveSucceed #BackToSchool
about 2 months ago, PCSSD

Staff from across the district gathered Monday for convocation and the start of Back to School Week, reconnecting and setting a shared focus for the year ahead!

Superintendent Jeff Senn reiterated PCSSD's new motto, #ExpectBelieveSucceed. He also encouraged educators to reflect on their PLC (Power, Legacy, and Completion) and the lasting difference they can make for students.

about 2 months ago, PCSSD
A person stands on a stage in front of a full auditorium, speaking to staff seated in rows.
Superintendent Jeff Senn
Two people hugging
A person standing with people around him
A band playing
A person stands on a stage in front of a full auditorium, speaking to staff seated in rows.
two principals speaking with one another
a row of focused people in matching blue
people clapping for standing new teachers
a shot of a crowded auditorium

Harris Elementary is adjusting traffic flow, office access, and visitor procedures during ongoing campus renovations. These temporary changes also impact College Station Elementary and help keep students, staff, and families safe while construction continues through November.

Read the full update and watch Principal Tracy Bailey introduce the temporary changes in the walkthrough videos: https://www.pcssd.org/article/3052742

2 months ago, PCSSD

🎉 Ashley Washam has been selected as one of the Top 15 Finalists for the 2027 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, a statewide honor recognizing exceptional teaching and leadership across Arkansas.

Washam will be recognized alongside other finalists on August 6 at the Governor’s Mansion. Each finalist receives a certificate and a $1,000 award provided by the Walton Family Foundation.

Earlier this year, Washam was named PCSSD’s District Teacher of the Year after being selected at the school level. She spent the last year serving Maumelle Middle School and will begin a new role as Dean of Students at Pine Forest Elementary for 2026–2027.

Congratulations on this well‑deserved recognition! Read more about her recognition here: https://www.pcssd.org/article/3046865 #ExpectBeliveSucceed

2 months ago, PCSSD
Open House is scheduled for Thursday, August 6, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m inside the Harris Elementary gym.
The schedule for each PCSSD Open House can be found here: https://www.pcssd.org/article/3015595
3 months ago, PCSSD
A stylized sticky note says, "Save the Date" for College Station Elementary School's Open House on Thursday, August 6

School supply lists for the 2026-2027 school year are now available for elementary and middle schools. Families can find the supplies for school organized by feeder area here: https://www.pcssd.org/article/3015590

3 months ago, PCSSD
A square image that says school supplies written on a cartoon notebook with school paraphernalia in the background