GENTRY, AR -- Two Gentry Middle School students are making a meaningful impact in their school community through their participation in the district’s EAST program.
Emily Cantrell and Hannah Stovall recently used their technology skills to live-stream a Gentry Primary School character awards assembly, allowing parents, caregivers, and family members who were unable to attend in person to watch the event remotely. The live stream was broadcast on the Gentry EAST Facebook page, expanding access and engagement for families across the community.
The project grew out of the students’ recognition that many school events take place during the school day, making it difficult for families to attend due to work schedules, distance, or other barriers. As former Gentry Primary School students themselves, Cantrell and Stovall understood the importance of family involvement at a young age and saw an opportunity to help bridge that gap.
Gentry’s EAST program is a project-based learning model that empowers students to use emerging technologies to solve real-world problems in their schools and communities. The program is led by Patrick Lanford at Gentry High School and Dorothy Ivey at Gentry Middle School and is available to students beginning in sixth grade.
Through EAST, students develop organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills while building confidence and learning to apply technology in practical, community-focused ways. Projects like the live-streaming initiative reflect the program’s emphasis on student-driven solutions and meaningful impact.
District leaders say the work of Cantrell and Stovall exemplifies how EAST students are using creativity and technology to strengthen connections between schools and families. More projects from Gentry EAST students are expected throughout the school year.