Eight Prairie Grove EAST students recently attended their first training session at the University of Arkansas, completing six hours of Photoshop AI training led by an industry professional. The session, held at the university's CAST training site, marked an exciting opportunity for students to immerse themselves in professional-level technology and tools. EAST, which stands for Education Accelerated by Service and Technology, offers students the chance to build valuable skills they can apply to community projects, reinforcing its core values of learning through service and innovation.
For many students, this experience was their first glimpse into college life. "It was exciting to see what it's like to be a college student," shared one student. The camaraderie built within the small group created lasting memories and helped foster a sense of confidence and enthusiasm for their future. "Being in a professional setting invigorated their potential for success. It's amazing to see them grow and gain confidence in their abilities," noted Mrs. Mariela Delgado, EAST facilitator.
One memorable moment during the trip occurred when the students had extra time to explore the building. They spread out across the levels of the stairwell, calling to Mrs. Delgado with joy on their faces. "It was pure joy—I had to snap a photo!" she said, recalling the excitement of the day.
These trainings are an integral part of EAST, a program that gives students from all grades and backgrounds a chance to collaborate, connect, and develop skills in cutting-edge technology. The impact on the students is clear—each session opens doors to new possibilities, sparking curiosity and motivation for their future endeavors.
Mrs. Delgado emphasized the lasting value of these experiences: "Every training we attend gives students more than just technical skills. It helps them think bigger, ask more questions about their future, and consider how they can use their talents to give back to the community."
The students who attended the training were:
9th graders: Callan Watthuber, Nathan Mcgruff, Wyatt Murray
10th graders: Joshua Cryder, Aden Geerdes
11th graders: Thomas Burch, Connor Wright
12th grader: Edward Black (ED)
EAST continues to be a powerful platform for students at Prairie Grove High School, where they learn skills that go beyond the classroom. Community members who need help solving local challenges are encouraged to reach out to the EAST program at prairiegrove-hs@eastschools.org or Mariela.delgado@pgtigers.org.
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