The Little Rock School District is proud to participate in Arkansas Peace Week, an annual event dedicated to promoting peacemaking and raising awareness about the importance of peace in our communities. Running from September 15 to 22, 2024, this year’s Peace Week offers a range of youth programs, including art and essay contests and educational lesson plans designed to engage students from across the state.
Peace Week Essay Contest
Students in grades 7 through 12 are invited to participate in the Peace Week Essay Contest, where they can explore and express their thoughts on peace. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three essays in each grade. The deadline for entries is September 27, 2024. Winners will be announced and given the opportunity to read their essays at the Arkansas State Capitol on November 16, 2024.
Peace Week Art Contest
For students in grades 1 through 12, the Peace Week Art Contest provides an opportunity to showcase their creativity. Like the essay contest, cash prizes will be awarded to the top three winners in each grade. The deadline for art submissions is also September 27, 2024. Finalists will have their artwork displayed at the Arkansas State Capitol from November 9 to 16, 2024, with winners announced on November 16, 2024.
Lesson Plans and Resources
In addition to the contests, Arkansas Peace Week offers lesson plans and resources developed in collaboration with LRSD and Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS). These materials are designed to teach peacemaking skills to students and are available for schools and youth groups across Arkansas. Schools, teachers, faith groups, and other youth organizations are encouraged to guide students in their participation.
Arkansas Peace Week has grown significantly since its inception in 2017 when Pax Christi Little Rock partnered with school counselor Mildred Calhoun to develop a peace curriculum for Rockefeller Elementary. Today, over 15,000 students from across the state participate in the event.