The Oak Hill Middle School Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter has been awarded two grants totaling $8,000 for the 2024-25 school year.
These grants are funded through the National FFA organization and sponsored by Tractor Supply Company.
Oak Hill Middle School FFA plans to use the first grant of $5,000 to engage plant science students in hands-on learning by growing vegetables hydroponically. The harvested produce will be sold to the local community, and proceeds will be used to purchase additional vegetable supplies to sustain the project.
Plans for the second grant of $3,000 include helping address food insecurity and hunger-related issues within the community by donating eggs grown in the school'’ agriculture plot to the local community.
Sharon Reeves, Oak Hill Middle School agriculture teacher and FFA club advisor, expressed gratitude for receiving the grant, saying it will help to further the school garden as a testament to the school's commitment to creating dynamic and engaging learning environments.
“As an agricultural educator, I am inspired to provide students with hands-on experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom walls.
By cultivating a garden, I am not only enriching the curriculum with opportunities for science, math, and literacy, but also fostering essential life skills such as problem-solving, perseverance, and teamwork,” stated Reeves. “Moreover, the garden has the potential to become a community hub, promoting healthy eating habits, environmental awareness, and a deeper appreciation for nature. It is a remarkable initiative that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on both our students and the broader Milledgeville community.
“I want my teaching to be as prolific as the mustard seed plant.
Perhaps many students will return to let me know that I was the turning point that made all the difference in their lives,” added Reeves.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development group of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U. S. Virgin Islands. It has provided over $900,000 to FFA chapters in 47 states.
Funding is provided through consumer donations made during checkout at Tractor Supply Company stores by purchasing a $1 paper FFA Emblem.
- Contributed