Pulaski County Public Schools is the largest school district in Arkansas, serving over 40,000 students across 67 schools in central Arkansas. The district operates under the Arkansas Department of Education and offers many academic programs, including advanced placement, career and technical education, and special education services.
The district covers 800 square miles and includes parts of Little Rock, North Little Rock, Maumelle, and other communities. It employs over 5,000 staff members, including teachers, administrators, and support personnel. The district's mission is to provide high-quality education that prepares students for college, careers, and citizenship.
Pulaski County Public Schools offers various types of schools and programs to meet diverse student needs:
Notable programs include the International Baccalaureate program at Hall High School and the award-winning fine arts program at J.L. McClellan High School.
According to the Arkansas Department of Education, 68% of Pulaski County Public Schools students met or exceeded proficiency standards in English Language Arts in 2022, compared to 52% statewide. In math, 45% met or exceeded standards, compared to 38% statewide.
Graduation rates have improved steadily, reaching 87.5% in 2022, above the state average of 85.6%. The district has implemented several initiatives to support struggling students, including tutoring programs and mental health services.
The district maintains strong community ties through parent-teacher organizations, local business partnerships, and volunteer programs. Each year, over 2,000 community members volunteer in schools, contributing more than 100,000 hours of service.
Like many urban districts, Pulaski County Public Schools faces challenges with funding disparities and facility maintenance. However, the district has implemented new solutions, including:
In 2021, the district opened a new STEM-focused high school, the first of its kind in Arkansas, which has drawn national attention for its project-based learning approach.
Parents and community members can participate in several ways: