Funding will cover technology needed to install a full EAST classroom environment, and professional development that is required in the EAST curriculum. “Investing in new programs goes beyond a simple financial investment for schools and districts,” EAST Director of New Program Growth Tami Baker said. “Supporting the expansion of EAST programs is an investment in our communities, in Arkansas, and in our future leaders.” Schools receiving funding in the first round include:

·        Brookland Middle School

·        University Heights School of Medical Arts (Jonesboro, Ark.)

·        Friendship Aspire Academies – Southeast Middle School (Pine Bluff, Ark.)

·        Mayflower High School

EAST Chief Executive Officer Matt Dozier said the organization’s classroom curriculum encourages students to think critically about problems they see beyond classroom walls. “We are driven by the belief that every student deserves access to innovative education experiences that will help them drive positive change in their communities,” he said. “Adding new programs means providing more students with this opportunity while equipping their classrooms with cutting-edge technology along with the tools to learn and use it.”

During the 22-23 school year, EAST programs:

·        Collaborated with 1,285 community partners for more than 17,990 volunteer hours;

·        Realized an estimated economic impact statewide of more than $461,620 dollars through those volunteer hours; and

·        Trained more than 7,610 students through 110 unique training opportunities both online and in-person.

               Data shows that EAST students are engaged and excited about learning. In a survey of more than 3,400 students across 42 schools with EAST programs, data showed that the EAST experience is 22% more engaging than other core courses. The survey was conducted through a tool called the Wellington Engagement Index (WEI). Created by educators, WEI was designed to measure student engagement, and to give administrators and teachers opportunities for reflection as they challenge students to solve real problems in their communities.

               Startup funding is available for more than 10 additional new EAST programs for the 2024-2025 school year. Arkansas schools considering implementation of EAST in the next school year should complete the form found at https://news.eastlink.me/nextstep.

About EAST: EAST is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Little Rock. Greenbrier High School first offered EAST in 1996; EAST now has programs in more than 250 schools across three states. Through EAST, students are encouraged to think critically and innovate to create positive change in their communities with the technology EAST provides for their classrooms. EAST offers year-round training to students; and professional development for EAST educators and for all classroom teachers through Education Unleashed. To learn more about EAST, visit www.eastinitiative.org.