In an education-defining moment, the Little Rock School District (LRSD) and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) have joined forces to bring an associate degree program directly to LRSD high schools - marking the first program of its kind in Pulaski County. The two institutions formalized the partnership on Monday morning with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the LRSD Administration Building.
University and district leadership attended the announcement, along with students, counselors, and principals from all LRSD high schools. The program, set to launch during the 2026–27 academic year, represents a significant step forward in the District’s mission to expand access and opportunity for students across the city.
Built on an already strong partnership between the two institutions, this innovative model will allow students to earn up to 60 hours of college credit without leaving their high school campus. Little Rock Southwest High School will be the first campus to fully implement the program this fall.
Several LRSD students already take part in concurrent credit courses, but this new initiative raises the bar even higher, offering students the opportunity to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously.
“We could not be more enthusiastic about strengthening our long-standing relationship with our neighbors and friends at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Together, we are building pathways that will make a real difference for students today and for generations to come,” said LRSD Superintendent Dr. Jermall Wright.
Dr. Shana Loring, Assistant Superintendent for Network 1, which oversees LRSD’s high schools, led the district team that helped bring this vision to life. She and her colleagues collaborated closely with UA Little Rock staff members Charnley Conway and Dr. Aaron Duvall, working tirelessly over the past several years to make the program a reality.
“This journey proves that when vision meets collaboration, transformation is possible,” said Dr. Loring. “When we stop asking ‘Can our students do this?’ and start asking ‘How can we make this possible for every student?’- we move from access to achievement.”
UA Little Rock Chancellor Dr. Christina Drale echoed that sentiment, calling the announcement a milestone for Central Arkansas.
“This Memorandum of Understanding marks an exciting day for students in Central Arkansas! Through concurrent education, we're creating pathways for LRSD students to earn college credit while still in high school, saving time, saving money, and opening doors to what's possible,” said Dr. Drale.
“We know that early exposure to college-level work can change a student’s trajectory. It builds confidence, sets expectations, and provides a head start toward a degree or credential. And just as importantly, it signals to students that they belong in higher education.”
This partnership marks the beginning of a new era for Little Rock students, one where higher education begins before graduation day. By aligning the strengths of LRSD and UA Little Rock, this initiative ensures that more students can pursue their dreams with determination, preparation, and purpose, all while staying right here in their community.
See more pictures from the event here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCxXVG
See the video of the press conference here: