Planting For The Future: Texarkana School Among Those Selected For Arkansas’ Shade Tree Program

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has announced the schools chosen to participate in the 2025 Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) program. This is a wonderful program, which helps schools create cooler, greener outdoor spaces while teaching students about the importance of trees.

Growing Lessons and Greener Playgrounds in Arkansas

Through the STOP program, Arkansas students receive hands-on experience in planting and caring for trees. They also learn about the essential role trees play in communities.

Kristine Kimbro, Urban & Community Forestry Program Coordinator, said in a press release,

The STOP program gives students hands-on experience with planting and caring for trees while teaching them about the vital role trees play in our communities. We’re excited to see these schools create lasting benefits for both students and their playgrounds.

2025 STOP Program Schools in Arkansas

The 10 schools were selected to receive up to five native shade trees, mulch, watering supplies, and planting guidelines are:

Arrie Goforth Elementary School, Norfork

De Queen Elementary School, De Queen

Gary E. Cobb Middle School, Texarkana

International Studies Magnet School, Jonesboro

Jessieville Middle School, Jessieville

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Kingston School, Kingston

Marvell-Elaine Elementary School, Marvell

Mt. Judea School, Mt. Judea

Perryville Elementary School, Perryville

Rison Elementary School, Rison

Each school will hold a tree-planting ceremony, attend a virtual workshop, and commit to caring for the trees with help from Department staff.

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Expanded Participation in 2025 For These Arkansas Schools

Due to an increased interest, ten more schools will receive a small potted tree with educational resources on tree benefits and proper planting and maintenance. These schools are:

Arrows Academy, Paragould

Cabot Pre-K North and Pre-K South, Cabot

Centerpoint Elementary School, Amity

Cornerstone Christian Academy, Tillar

Daisy Bates Elementary, Little Rock

Frank Tillery Elementary School, Rogers

Howard Perrin Elementary School, Benton

Spring Hill Elementary School, Hope

Villa Crest Academy, Clarksville

Yellville-Summit Middle School, Yellville

These young Arkansans will soon have shady places to play in the warmer months and also a lifelong appreciation for the beautiful trees they helped grow.