Lake Oconee Academy once again celebrated Earth Day with its annual Campus Clean-Up event on April 22, 2026, bringing together students, families, and staff for an afternoon of service, stewardship, and community.
Held each year on Earth Day, the event invites the LOA community to gather after school at the flagpole before spreading out across campus to collect litter, care for shared spaces, and take pride in the environment we call home.
The Campus Clean-Up is made possible through the continued support of the Joiner family, longtime sponsors of the event. Charity and Rusty Joiner, along with their three children who attend LOA, provide supplies and help organize the effort each year. For Charity, the event is about more than just picking up trash, it’s about shaping perspective and building lasting habits.
“Each Earth Day at LOA’s annual Campus Clean-Up, we are reminded that leadership starts with the smallest actions, like choosing to care for a place that isn’t solely our own,” said Joiner. “For many of these kids and families, this may be the first time they pick up someone else’s trash or truly consider their role in reducing litter and waste, and that awareness is where real, lasting impact begins.”
Participants were provided with gloves, bags, and supplies before heading out in groups across campus. Once full, trash bags were returned to the central collection area or placed near buildings for collection by the school’s facilities team.
In addition to beautifying the campus, the event fostered a sense of shared responsibility and pride among students of all ages. Younger students worked alongside older peers, families connected, and the entire school community contributed to a meaningful cause. Upper School Principal Mr. Jerante Smith was also on campus to support the event, helping ensure a smooth and successful afternoon for all involved.
“This is what it means to be part of a community,” said Smith. “Our students are learning that leadership is not always about big moments. It’s about showing up, taking responsibility, and caring for the world around them. I’m proud of the way our students led by example.”
Students who participated reflected that same spirit. “I liked working with my friends and seeing everyone come together. It showed me how much we can do when we all help each other,” remarked one young student. Following the clean-up, students were rewarded for their efforts with a fun treat, adding a celebratory finish to a day centered on service!
Looking ahead, the Joiner family hopes to expand the initiative even further. “Maybe one day this can grow into something even bigger,” Joiner shared. “We would love to bring in local sponsors and turn it into an opportunity to plant flowers, refresh landscaping, and continue making our campus even more beautiful year after year.”
Lake Oconee Academy is proud to continue this Earth Day tradition and deeply grateful for the families and community members who make it possible. Through shared effort and a collective sense of responsibility, the LOA community continues to model what it means to care for something greater than just ourselves.