Entergy Arkansas powers the next generation by bringing energy to school mornings

Students in Arkansas are starting their school days with a little extra energy - thanks to Entergy Arkansas employees. Whether it's riding high in bucket trucks to hang welcome banners, greeting students on their way in to class, handing out stickers or simply opening their car door, lineworkers and staff are on track to be present at more than 85 schools this year.

For employees, the morning "welcomes" are about more than just brightening a student's day - it's about building connections.

"These are our customers and we want them to see that we are giving back to the community," Field Mentoring Program Senior Coach John Sass said. "What better way than to start with their children."

It's also a chance to pull back the curtain on the people behind the power.

"Who do you call when your lights are out? Us," Searcy Service Center Administrative Assistant Jordan Johnson said. "So now you have a face to that number you're calling."

The interactions create lasting memories, not just for students, but Entergy Arkansas employees as well.

"We're starting these kids off with smiles and high fives. We're also starting our day off that way," Entergy Arkansas Journeyman Lineman Jason Hollis said. "Sometimes this may be their happy place, so we just try to make it that much better for them."

Entergy Arkansas also provides meaningful support inside schools. Twenty-eight campuses will receive grants this year, giving educators the flexibility to meet the needs of their students.

"Some of them are buying school supplies," Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator Kendall Thornton said. "One school is using the grant money to buy new clothes for a closet for their students who are unable to purchase new clothes, and another school is using it for playground equipment."

For employees and students alike, these mornings are more than just a cheerful hello - they're a reminder of the power of community.

"It automatically improves your mood to see our employees out there cheering on these students, giving them high fives, dancing with them, giving them stickers and even singing them 'Happy Birthday,' " Thornton said.

With smiles and encouragement, Entergy Arkansas is powering the next generation with the energy they need to succeed.