Arkansas Kids Clean Up

In Phillips County, Arkansas, kids are making a difference—they’re going green! Students are joining the GEAR UP Environmental Club to learn and teach others about how to conserve the environment.

GEAR UP is an acronym meaning “Gaining Early Awareness Readiness for Undergraduate Programs.” It is a program that helps kids prepare for college. Sound boring? Actually, students who participate in GEAR UP have a great time. They go on field trips, take part in activities, and participate in free after-school tutoring and summer programs.

During the 2008 GEAR UP Summer Program at Barton High School, which included “Go Green” week, a group of students decided to put their new environmental knowledge to good use. With the help of their GEAR UP coordinator, they formed the GUEC (GEAR UP Environmental Club).

GUEC doesn’t have many members (about 10 kids), but that doesn’t stop them from making a difference. They have started to recycle cans and other aluminum things to fund different activities. For example, when GUEC decided to celebrate their successful club they had a pizza party. Where did the money come from? All those soda cans they recycled!

GUEC also cleans the community and they have planted trees and flowers in different places.

“We’re just trying to do our duties as citizens of Phillips County,” says one member. And they definitely are.

 The GEAR UP Environmental Club is setting an example for the kids and adults in their community. So can you!

—Maya Fleming

Photo: Image Source Photography

Comments

[Maya F.]

It's so cool to have my story posted for everyone to read and hear what the kids in my community are doing for the environment. I really hope that you liked it,and feel free to give any suggestions. Thanks!

[Justin]

I'm going to tell my parents and my teacher about this program. I'd like to be a part of it. thanks maya!

[Kid Reporter Mariam E.]

Great article Maya! Gear Up sounds sounds cool! Keep up the good work! =)

[Kid Reporter Alan G.]

Hi Maya!
I think it's great that kids join educational and environment type clubs instead of video game clubs.

[Sandra]

Great article!! Keep up the good work GUEC club!!

[Andrew P.]

Hi Maya
Great article! It's really cool how the high school has a club based on going green! How many cans did they collect to get enough money to have a pizza party? It would have to be a lot. I know my school doesn't have a club that helps the environment, so it's cool to see what schools do have those types of clubs and what the clubs do. Good article, keep up the good work!

[Kid Reporter Gopa P.]

Hi Maya!
Wow. I never knew that a group of kids could do so much to help the environment! Great job!