Story by: Nancy Bonds, Director of Communications
Goose Creek CISD recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Dr. Johnny T. Clark, Jr. Elementary School to celebrate the installation of a new sunshade structure designed to enhance outdoor learning and play while promoting a healthier school environment.
Principal Kemberly Scheidt joins Clark Elementary students, PTO members, and representatives from Be Well™ Baytown, ExxonMobil, CenterPoint Energy, and Healthy Community Schools at the ribbon cutting for the school’s new sunshade. Photo by Carrie Pryor-Newman.
The new shade structure creates a safer, more comfortable space for students to learn, play, and socialize outside. It complements the school’s ongoing commitment to sun safety education, which is integrated across all grade levels and reinforced throughout the year through activities promoting sun-safe behaviors.
“We are so proud of the school team, led by CATCH® Champion Jo McGrew, for their commitment to promoting healthy behaviors at Clark Elementary,” said Lori Rumfield, Healthy Special Projects Specialist.
This project is part of a larger, multi-component effort supported by Be Well™ Baytown, an initiative from MD Anderson sponsored by ExxonMobil. Since 2018, it has worked to increase access to sun-safe environments and expand knowledge about sun protection across the Baytown community.
CenterPoint Energy also contributed to this effort. The company strives to be a catalyst in the communities it serves, leveraging everyday opportunities and resources to achieve extraordinary outcomes and working alongside schools to promote wellness and health-focused initiatives.
“Providing our students with safe, welcoming spaces to learn and play is a priority,” said Kemberly Scheidt, Principal of Clark Elementary. “The school PTO leveraged the donation for the shade structure to increase the size of the structure so the students would have even greater protection from the sun during recess.”
Currently, 94% of elementary schools in Goose Creek CISD have sunshades in their play areas, making outdoor play safer and more accessible for years to come. This ongoing expansion of sun-safe environments reflects the district’s commitment to student wellness and community collaboration.
The district extends its gratitude to the Clark PTO, Be Well™ Baytown, ExxonMobil, CenterPoint Energy, and all partners who helped make this project a reality, ensuring students across Goose Creek CISD can enjoy healthy, safe, and supportive outdoor spaces.