The United States needed a new coat of paint

The United States of America sprawls wide over the Sacred Heart of Jesus School parking lot freshly repainted because a Norco Boy Scout decided he wanted to give back to his former elementary school.

“It’s my Eagle Scout project, but it’s obviously a huge help to the school where I went to Pre-K to fourth grade,” said Austin Carter of Destrehan. “I always wanted to do something to give back for my project and this seemed like a perfect opportunity.”

Carter went to Sacred Heart School in Norco, as well as his two siblings, and grew up in the community.

Principal Laura Delaneuville said, by completing this project, Carter “has afforded our students some of the same learning and recreational opportunities he once enjoyed at Sacred Heart.  It was quite endearing and heart-warming to hear Austin reminisce about his years at Sacred Heart as he completed this project with his fellow Scouts, family and friends.”

Enlisting the help of fellow Scouts from Pack 317, friends and even his enthusiastic mother, Carter got a project done that’s like an outdoor classroom. Teachers can use it as a geography tool and  to play games.

“It feels like a good fit,” Carter mused of his efforts. “My mom is very good at painting and she was excited about coming help with it.”

There was a map there already, located where the students congregate for morning assemblies, but its year of use showed in its worn spots.

Carter decided the nation needed a new coat of paint.An estimated 21 feet wide by 12 feet long, the multi-colored map includes the nation’s 50 states and two Four Square playground game outlines.

About 10 people came to the site for two days to do the project. They made the pattern using plastic sheeting and Sharpies, removed the old map and repainted it.

Carter funded the paint and materials with a gofundme account, which exceeded the $300 goal by $55.

A Scout since first grade, he has grown with the group’s mission to teach leadership and contribute to the community.

As he approaches his senior year at Jesuit High School next year, the 17-year-old plans to study engineering, math or science when he enters college. He swims competitively and is a member of his school’s swim team and is with the Louisiana Storm Aquatics team.

Carter enjoys outdoor activities that allow him to do something different like this project, as well as camping. He’s been a member of Pack 317 and then Troop 317 for 11 years, which will end when he turns 18. As a Life Scout, he next and final status with the organization is Eagle Scout – the highest rank and honor a Boy Scout can achieve – that comes with completion of a service project.

Even as Carter contemplates his future, he looks to his past and is pleased with his journey with the Scouts.

“It’s my way of giving back to the school,” he said. “It’s the least I can do to help out.”

 

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