Friends, 

As a proud product of the Little Rock School District and someone deeply influenced by the leadership of Dr. Marion G. Lacey, it was an honor to join community in welcoming students to the newly opened Dr. Marion G. Lacey K-8 Academy. The first day of school is always filled with excitement and promise, as students, parents, and teachers alike look forward to new classes, new teachers, and fresh opportunities for success. 

Lacey Academy, named in honor of a remarkable leader who dedicated her life to excellence in education, stands as a beacon of quality learning, with over 60 classrooms, a media center, a cafetorium, and state-of-the-art facilities that will serve more than 1,400 students. This new campus is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing our children with the best possible environment to learn and grow.

Today, along with other City of Little Rock team members who visited schools across the district, we offered our support and encouragement to students and staff. We wish everyone a successful school year as we continue to invest in and uplift the next generation of leaders in Little Rock.

• The Little Rock Board of Directors will meet Tuesday, August 13, in the Board Room at City Hall, 500 W. Markham St. At that time, the Board will set the agenda for its next regular meeting. All board meetings are livestreamed on the City of Little Rock's Facebook and YouTube pages.
• The Little Rock Parks and Recreation Commission meets Wednesday, August 14, at noon at The Centre at University Park, 6401 W. 12th St. The commission advises the City on matters related to Little Rock's public green spaces, community centers, recreational programs and more.
• The Little Rock Board of Adjustment's monthly meeting is Thursday, August 15, at 4 p.m. at the Willie L. Hinton Neighborhood Resource Center, 3801 W. 12th St. The Board considers requests for variances from the City zoning ordinance.
• The Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department will host a community meeting on Thursday, Aug. 15, at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the master plan for Hindman Park. The focus of the first meeting is on mountain biking. The discussion will be held at the park's clubhouse, 7501 Hindman Park Way.