(Americus, GA) – The Sumter EMC Foundation recently awarded Southland Academy a grant for $5,000.00 to purchase materials and plants for raised garden beds. These garden beds will be used by kindergarten and elementary students as part of a hands-on learning experience. This initiative serves as the foundation for a broader agriculture program that will span from early education through middle and high school. With agriculture playing a significant role in Georgia’s economic development, Southland Academy recognizes the importance of integrating more agriculture-focused educational opportunities into its curriculum.

Southland educator, Leigh Anne Saye says, “I am looking forward to “live action” learning with our students while out in the garden. I grew up on a farm in Dooly County and come from a long line of hard-working farmers and teachers from Georgia and Ohio, and I absolutely love to help students learn through work and play. As Southland Academy grows our garden, we hope to instill a love of learning, a working knowledge of how to grow food, and an appreciation for our farmers and all they provide for our communities. Hopefully, this project will spill over into our families as we “Get out and grow together!”

“We’re excited to support Southland Academy in launching this agriculture initiative,” said Andrea Walker, Sumter EMC Foundation Chairman. “By introducing students to agriculture at an early age, we’re not only enhancing their educational experience but also helping cultivate an understanding of an industry that is vital to Georgia’s economy.”