Spring Break

March in Arkansas brings warmer temperatures and an explosion of color from our abundance of trees and wildflowers. March also brings a much-needed break for students across The Natural State. While Spring Break gives students the ability to step away from the classroom, the time away from school does not mean learning has to stop.

Arkansas has accessible and low- to no-cost learning opportunities across the state for families to explore. Numerous parks and museums provide endless hours of fun, exploration, and learning for all ages, with many of them located within short driving distances. Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs, the Little Rock Zoo, the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, and Crystal Bridges in Bentonville are just a few examples. For outdoor adventures, families can explore the many hiking trails available at Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Little Rock, Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton, and the Buffalo National River that snakes across north Arkansas. In my childhood one of my favorite places to visit was Old Washington State Park because I could feel the history around me. In recent years I have found joy and awe visiting the Louisiana Purchase State Park, the starting point for the westward expansion of the United States.

My hope this Spring Break is that students and families will embrace the beauty and the rich history and culture of Arkansas. The Natural State is not only a beautiful place to live, it is also the Land of Opportunity for adventures in learning.