An image of several winners from Central, including winners from the Thespian Festival, the Debate team, and the wrestling team.

It’s been an unforgettable week of achievement for Little Rock Central High School, with students excelling across athletics, academics, and the arts!

On the national stage, Central students made history. The Central Policy Debate team captured the 2026 National Championship at Harvard University, becoming the first and only team from Arkansas to win the prestigious title. Their victory capped an incredible season of elite competition and firmly placed Central High among the nation’s top debate programs.  (See additional details regarding the team’s outstanding accomplishments here.)

 

On the mat, Central’s wrestling program delivered an outstanding performance at the 6A State Championships. The boys’ team finished an impressive 6th overall, while the girls powered their way to a state runner-up finish. Along the way, Central wrestlers earned numerous All-State honors, produced multiple state finalists, and celebrated state champions, highlighting the program’s competitive spirit under the leadership of Coach Aaron Butler. (Read more about this tremendous feat here.)

Under the stage lights, Central’s Thespian Troupe 6418 proudly represented the school at the Arkansas State Thespian Festival in Springdale. Competing against top programs from across the state, the troupe earned Gold Honor Status, multiple Superior and Excellent ratings, and All-State honors in both cast and crew categories. Adding to the celebration, Principal Nancy Rousseau was recognized as Arkansas Thespians' Outstanding Administrator of the Year, in honor of her continued support of theatre education and the arts.

From championship grit on the mat, to powerful performances on stage, to historic wins in academic competition, Central High School continues to set the standard for excellence, showing that Tiger success truly knows no limits.