‘Growing Laurel Hill’ program gets $100K grant for career training

OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation has been awarded a $100,000 grant to support agricultural education for students in a rural, underserved community, the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) announced.

According to the OCSD, funding comes from the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations in partnership with The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation as part of the Career Catalyst initiative. The grant will support the “Growing Laurel Hill” program, which is designed to provide hands-on career training for 150 students, many from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Students will gain skills in horticulture, Agri-Technology, greenhouse operations, and aquaponics systems, with additional opportunities for internships. The Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation was chosen from 13 applicants for its comprehensive approach to career education.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the initiative, stating that the program will provide students with industry skills and real-world learning experiences.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation for investing in the success of our students and our community,” Mr Chambers said.

Assistant Superintendent John Spolski emphasized the importance of partnerships in launching the program.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved through strong community partnerships,” said Mr Spolski.

“With support from local businesses, organizations, and agencies, we are equipping students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in Florida’s evolving agricultural landscape. We are excited to see this program take root and flourish.”

The program has already secured $50,000 in funding from the Farm Bureau, with an additional $100,000 pending from Yellow River Soil and Water Conservation and other sources, including the USDA and local businesses.

Mary Chance, president and CEO of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, said the “Growing Laurel Hill” program exemplifies the type of initiatives the Career Catalyst program is meant to support.

“The Growing Laurel Hill Academy is exactly the type of initiative that we hope to foster through our Career Catalyst program,” said Ms Chance.

“We’re excited to see how local industry and community leaders have rallied around this effort to create a meaningful opportunity for students. We believe this program will serve as a model for similar projects across the state.”

The initiative is set to launch in the 2025-2026 school year.