The East program is known for its unique approach at learning, community service, and interesting computer programs.


The students in the program create their own lesson plans and contribute to the community in many ways.


“I learned we have a choice to change the community,” said junior Orlando Gillespie.


The East program encourages their students to show creativity and express their opinions in their projects. East is different from any other class because all the projects the students do are self-invented and unique.


“I was working on a song explaining why teenagers and kids should get an education instead of focusing on being cool,” said sophomore Desiray Young.

The kids in the East program all had different reasons for joining the program East.

“I joined East because I like helping the community of Searcy and because it is a self-taught class,” said Azarea King. “We are the teachers.”

Others in the class has similar opinions about the class.


“I joined because I love working with computers and helping out the community,” said Young.


East performs various community services and create projects based upon helping people.


“I helped out with the Bikers for Foster Kids,” said Young.


Students in the class are independent and responsible for getting their projects done. Students are in charge of what there project is about and how they are going to present it. There are many ways students can choose to do their projects and each person comes up with different ways to do them.

“I’m still working on an ongoing project that’s called Suicide Prevention Video, but right now I am working on the History Walk Through project,” said King.

Students enjoy the independence the class allows them. It gives students the ability to express themselves in creative ways.


“My favorite thing about East is the freedom we had and opportunities that we were able to create for other people and for ourselves,” said Young.


Some students in the class have found themselves changed by the different projects that they do.


“I help out the community with projects that help me grow as a person,” said King.


The computer programs the class has are supposed to be extensive and intriguing, including: GPS mapping tools, architectural and CAD design software, 3D animations, and more.


“I love the photoshop program; it interests me because I can edit photos,” explained King.


The East program is a unique way for students to express their creativity and help out the community in various ways. East students are helping dreams become realities one project at a time.