army national guard ged plus program little rock ar

“Planting trees is a respectable thing to do. “I’ve learned a lot about the environment,” Chase said about the entire experience. After reading the essay, he was invited to turn over the first shovel of soil for the tree planting. Chase to read his winning essay to his teachers, staff and fellow recruits.Ĭhase, a native of Clifton Park, N.Y., wrote about ways to reduce use of fossil fuels, use renewable energy sources and keep the earth clean. Maiden introduced the finalists of the essay contest and invited the winner, Private Nathan W. “We at the GED Plus program want to do our part by planting this beautiful red maple as a symbol of our commitment to being good stewards of our planet.”

“More than ever, it is important for us to find ways to preserve and protect our earth,” Maiden said to the crowd. GED Plus teacher, Shannon Maiden, prefaced the ceremony by discussing the significance of Arbor Day and what it means to participate in environmental activities. On Arbor Day, May 29, 2011, the GED Plus program hosted an environmental essay contest and planted a 15-foot red autumn maple tree donated by Bemis Tree Farm in Little Rock. It’s a way of life we hope catches on with these new Soldiers.” “Here, this is who we are, good stewards of the earth and defenders of our environment. “We make them think about what they use, throw away or recycle,” said GED Plus Commander Lt. As a green building, the complex also features efficient and recycled building materials, smart lighting, computer regulated temperatures, and water conserving appliances. Paper recycling containers are in each of the 22 classrooms, along with multiple material recycling bins in offices, break rooms and cafeteria.

When recruits enter the GED Plus complex, they are introduced to a culture of reusing, recycling and conserving the environment. But it comes as a surprise to some whose old mores and values are challenged forcing them to think about environmental impacts of each action or inaction. The National Guard’s newest recruits arrive at the GED Plus program knowing their teachers will challenge their minds as they work towards their diplomas.

Army national guard ged plus program little rock ar