Ira Jones Middle School eighth-grader Tommy Pearson is making a lasting impact at his school through leadership, compassion, and service to others.
As a peer buddy in the school’s Functionally Based Instruction (FBI) Program, Pearson designed and built a sensory board for FBI students as part of his Eagle Scout Project.
The hands-on sensory board includes interactive activities that support fine motor development and provide engaging learning experiences for students.
Pearson said the project was inspired by the students and staff members he worked alongside in the program.
“They put in so much time, effort and creativity into helping these students learn while having fun at the same time,” Pearson said. “I felt like I should do something to help them.”
A teacher recommended creating a life skills board filled with activities designed to support student learning and independence.
Pearson built the board with features such as zippers, buttons, locks, and shoelaces to help students practice everyday dressing and fine motor skills.
“I felt it was very important for them to have a tool to work on these fine motor skills because they will use these skills in their everyday lives,” Pearson said.
The project also marked a major milestone in Pearson’s journey toward earning the rank of Eagle Scout, one of the highest achievements in Scouting.
“Being an Eagle Scout is something very few people accomplish,” Pearson said. “This project helped me earn my Eagle Scout rank, but it taught me much more than just putting together the pieces. This is something I will remember forever because the joy this board brings to these students will always stay with me.”
Ira Jones special education teacher Melissa Griffith praised Pearson’s dedication and thoughtfulness throughout the project.
“Thank you to Eagle Scout candidate Tommy Pearson for his outstanding service project benefiting our Functionally Based Instruction students,” Griffith said. “He thoughtfully designed and built a sensory board that gives our students engaging, hands-on sensory experiences to support their growth and learning. His hard work, compassion, and commitment to serving others will make a lasting difference in our classroom.”
Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Mina Griffith also commended Pearson’s leadership and service.
“We are so proud of Tommy for making this his Eagle Scout Project,” Mina Griffith said.
The district is proud of all students who have earned or are pursuing Scouting’s highest honors and other equivalent leadership and service distinctions, recognizing their commitment to community impact, leadership, and service.