West Junior High School is proud to announce its selection as a recipient of the EAST Initiative (Education Accelerated by Service and Technology) grant, provided by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) of the Arkansas Department of Education. This grant will facilitate the establishment of an EAST program at the school, commencing in the 2025–2026 academic year.
About the EAST Initiative
Founded in 1996 in Greenbrier, Arkansas, the EAST Initiative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering student-driven, project-based learning that emphasizes community service and the application of advanced technology. EAST programs equip students with access to professional-grade tools and software, enabling them to identify and address real-world problems within their communities.
Grant Details and Implementation
The grant awarded to West Junior High School will cover the costs associated with setting up a fully equipped EAST classroom totaling in the amount of $115,000, including state-of-the-art hardware and software. We would like to personally thank our Media Specialist, Maegan Wright who initially wrote the grant. She continued to correspond with representative Tami Baker to ensure that West Junior High qualified and is currently heading the program at her respective campus. Additionally, this grant will provide professional development for educators to effectively facilitate the program. Schools receiving this grant are expected to contribute a portion of the initial setup costs which is around $25,000, ensuring a collaborative investment in the program's success. We will begin our pilot year with offering 3 classes to our current 9th grade students. As we follow through the program we intend to develop a full schedule by offering this course to 7th, 8th, and 9th grade within the next two years.
Impact on Students and the Community
The introduction of the EAST program at West Junior High School aims to enhance student engagement by allowing learners to take ownership of their education through meaningful projects that have tangible impacts on their community. By integrating technology with service, students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills essential for success in higher education and the workforce.
Looking Ahead
West Junior High School is committed to providing innovative educational opportunities that prepare students for the challenges of the future. The implementation of the EAST program represents a significant step toward achieving this goal, fostering a learning environment where students are empowered to make a difference both within and beyond the classroom.
For more information about the EAST Initiative, please visit www.eastinitiative.org and follow us on social media to watch our progress as we navigate the ins and outs of the EAST program!