LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (November 18, 2025) – Ten Arkansas schools have been selected by the EAST Initiative to receive the annual EAST Upgrade Grant, a matching grant that helps STEM-focused EAST classrooms purchase new professional-grade technology.

Each year, the grant provides $50,000 for new equipment, with individual schools receiving up to $5,000. This year’s recipients will invest in upgraded hardware including computers, camera equipment, 3D printers and other tools.

2025 EAST Upgrade Grant recipients:
 • Armorel High School
 • Gentry Middle School
 • Harrison Middle School
 • Izard Co. Consolidated High School
 • Lamar High School
 • Morrilton Senior High School
 • Searcy High School
 • West Fork High School
 • Wonderview High School
 • Wynne High School

At Searcy High School, EAST facilitator Kelly Martin plans to purchase an Epson SureColor T7770D wide-format printer and two high-powered Lenovo ThinkPad laptops. She said the upgrades will help students better support local organizations by producing “professional posters and banners.”

“This generous EAST Upgrade Grant will have a significant impact on our program by giving our students the tools they need to bring their ideas to life,” Martin said. “Our students can now create professional-quality materials and tackle community challenges more effectively. This funding empowers them to innovate, collaborate and make a meaningful difference in our community.”

To apply for the grant, schools submit a request outlining the amount of funding needed, the technology they intend to purchase and how it will support student work.

In EAST, students use advanced technology to solve real-world problems in partnership with local organizations. The EAST Initiative says reinvesting in established programs ensures students have the tools needed to create meaningful change.

“EAST equips Arkansas schools with industry standard STEM technology each year to help establish new EAST programs,” said Alicia Humbard, Senior Director of Program Services at EAST Initiative. “However, it’s equally important for us to continue investing in schools that use these tools to pour into their communities and foster a culture of student growth through real-world experiences.”

Schools receiving the grant will complete a spring audit to verify that funds were spent on the designated hardware and software.

For more information on the EAST Upgrade Grant and the schools receiving it, contact communications@EASTstaff.org.