GENTRY, AR — More than a dozen students from Gentry High School spent part of their day working in the school's mum fields, pulling weeds and cleaning up the area to help prepare for another year of hands-on agricultural learning.
Located behind Gentry High School, the mum fields serve as more than just a place to grow chrysanthemums. They function as an outdoor classroom where students in the school's Agriculture Education program gain practical experience in plant science, crop production, and agricultural management throughout the school year.
As every gardener knows, weeds grow quickly, and maintaining the fields requires consistent care. Thanks to the efforts of these student volunteers, the learning space will be ready for the upcoming growing season.
The project also provided students with an opportunity to earn community service hours, which are required for Arkansas students beginning with the Class of 2027. Beyond meeting that requirement, the students demonstrated a commitment to serving their school and taking pride in their campus.
"Their willingness to give their time during the summer reflects the character and work ethic we love to see developed in our students," said Mark Scott, the district's director of community engagement. "These students showed that service, teamwork, and Pioneer pride extend far beyond the classroom."
Beginning with the Class of 2027, Arkansas public high school students must complete 75 hours of documented community service to graduate under the Arkansas LEARNS Act. The service can be completed anytime during grades 9–12, including the summer before ninth grade, and must benefit the community while meeting local school district guidelines. Volunteer work through schools, clubs, nonprofits, churches, government agencies, and other approved organizations may qualify, and districts are responsible for tracking and documenting students' hours. The requirement is designed to encourage civic engagement, leadership, and service while giving students meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.
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