The LIGHT Project is officially underway, and we can’t wait to see what this year has in store for our first graders!
This fall, first graders across Darke County kicked off the LIGHT Project with a special day at Chenoweth Trails, trading their usual classroom setting for an opportunity to explore, learn, and experience the outdoors firsthand.
This year, we’re excited to welcome students from Greenville, Ansonia, Versailles, Tri-Village, DeColores Montessori, Franklin Monroe, and Mississinawa Valley.
The LIGHT Project stands for Literacy, Inquiry, Getting Outside, Having Fun, and Time with Family. The program encourages young people to discover the world around them through reading, hands-on activities, outdoor adventures, and meaningful time with their families.
It also supports the Light Foundation’s commitment to building R.E.A.L. leaders: Responsible, Ethical, Accountable Leaders. Even at a young age, leadership starts with everyday choices, taking responsibility, following through on commitments, and having the confidence to try something new. The LIGHT Project gives students plenty of opportunities to practice these skills while having fun along the way.
Setting Goals and Earning Stars
Each student receives a LIGHT Project backpack filled with books and materials to begin their year-long adventure. As they read, complete activities, and participate in program challenges, they earn stars toward different milestones, unlocking prizes and celebrating their progress along the way.
The ultimate goal is to earn 50 stars and qualify for the end-of-year Reward Picnic! This special celebration gives students something exciting to work toward while helping them see what they can accomplish when they set a goal and stick with it.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Some of the best learning happens outside the classroom. A science book might inspire an outdoor discovery, a hike could spark new questions, or a journal entry might lead to a conversation around the dinner table.
Throughout the year, students and their families will have opportunities to participate in Family Fun Days and other special activities designed to bring learning to life. Whether they’re exploring Chenoweth Trails or trying something new together, these experiences encourage families to keep learning and discovering long after the school day ends.
A Community Effort
The LIGHT Project wouldn’t be possible without the support of our local schools, teachers, families, volunteers, and community partners. We’re grateful to everyone who helps make these experiences possible for our young learners.
A special shout-out goes to Greenville High School’s Careers with Children students, who volunteered during some of the kickoff days! 
Their involvement was a natural fit with what they’re learning in the classroom, giving them hands-on experience working with younger children and helping them explore whether a future working with kids might be right for them. We appreciate them jumping in and helping make our kickoff days a success!
We’re looking forward to a year filled with books to read, stars to earn, new experiences, and goals to reach. We can’t wait to see our first graders grow in confidence and discover just how much they can accomplish!
With the Darke County kickoff complete, we’re turning our attention to Rhode Island. Later this month, we’ll kick off the LIGHT Project withfirst graders at St. Philip, Captain Isaac Paine, and West Glocester.
We’re excited to bring the LIGHT Project to our Rhode Island students and watch another group of young learners begin their year of reading, exploring, and getting outside!
