What started as a pile of surplus materials quickly turned into something much bigger.
This school year, Craighead Electric Cooperative Corporation and Empower Broadband launched the first-ever From Scrap to Success program, giving new life to items like wooden reels, metal reels, wire and other leftover materials. Instead of going unused, these materials were delivered to local schools with one simple challenge: use them.
And that’s exactly what students did.
Across nearly two dozen schools in northeast Arkansas, creativity took over. Agriculture programs, theater departments, art classes, and student groups worked together to transform what many would consider “scrap” into something meaningful.
Some projects were practical. Others were artistic. All of them told a story.
Students built everything from tables and stools to stage props and outdoor structures. At Nettleton High School, students created a s’mores table with matching stools. Riverside High School crafted a rocking horse. Over at East Poinsett County School District, students constructed a covered wagon.
And those were just a few of the many impressive entries.
A Competition Fueled by Creativity
In the spring, each school presented their finished projects to a judging committee. What they saw made one thing clear: this was going to be a tough decision.
Because of the high level of creativity and craftsmanship, the program expanded to include multiple awards.
First Place
Crowley’s Ridge Christian Homeschool
A deer stand complete with a deer feeder
Award: $2,500 donation + a CECC cookout
Second Place
Brookland High School Theatre Department
A chariot, game-style spinner, rolling KFC bucket, and floral stand
Award: $750 donation
Third Place
Greene County Tech High School Art Department
A retractable-height deer stand
Award: $250 donation
The first-place prize also included a full cookout hosted by Craighead Electric, bringing employees and students together to celebrate the win.
More Than Just a Project
While the competition brought excitement, the real impact goes beyond the final results.
From Scrap to Success gave students a chance to think differently, work together, and build something from the ground up. It encouraged problem-solving, hands-on learning, and collaboration across different programs within each school.
It also reflects something deeper about the cooperative model.
“As a cooperative, everything we do is about serving our communities,” said Justin Etter. “This program is a simple idea, but it shows what can happen when you give students an opportunity and trust them to run with it. What they created out of these materials is something we’re really proud of.”
Looking Ahead
After a successful first year, the excitement is already building for what’s next.
Teachers and students have shared feedback, ideas, and plenty of enthusiasm for the future of the program. And if this year is any indication, the next round of creations will be even more impressive.
Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity and a few extra materials to turn something overlooked into something unforgettable.
For information or to get your school enrolled in the Scrap to Success program, contact Marti Hook: MHook@CraigheadElectric.coop.
