The following 10 schools were recently selected to participate in the 2025 Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) Program:
- 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
- Kingston School, Kingston
- Marvell-Elaine Elementary School, Marvell
- Mt. Judea School, Mt. Judea
- Perryville Elementary School, Perryville
- Rison Elementary School, Rison
The Forestry Division’s Urban & Community Forestry program established the Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) program in 2002 to reduce the risk of skin cancer among Arkansas children and to promote the benefits of trees in community settings. The STOP program helps reduce childhood exposure to direct sunlight by increasing shaded areas where children play. Students engage in a hands-on learning experience by participating in planting the trees on their own school campuses.
Each year, up to 10 Arkansas schools are selected to receive shade trees, planting supplies, and educational support to create cooler, healthier playgrounds.
Participating schools will receive:
- Up to five large hardwood trees, species based on school location
- Mulch, watering supplies, and planting guidelines
- On-site planting assistance from Forestry Division personnel
- Educational talks for students and community members about the importance of trees
- Recognition in local media
Expanded Participation in 2025:
In response to increased interest, ten additional schools were selected to receive a small potted tree to plant on their campus, along 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
Eligibility and Program Requirements
To be considered, schools must:
- Have limited existing shade on a playground
- Attend an online STOP workshop for educators
- Incorporate school-wide lessons with an emphasis on the importance of trees
- Involve students in tree-related projects
- Host a tree-planting ceremony
- Be willing to maintain the trees after planting
Eligible applicants include:
- Public or private Arkansas schools (Pre-K–12)
- Non-traditional educational facilities (e.g., juvenile detention centers, residential childcare institutions, long-term care facilities) with playgrounds in need of more shade
The Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) application period typically runs from late August through mid-September each year. You may view a pdf version of a sample application here:
Program Contact: Kristine (Krissy) Kimbro
Email: [email protected]