Farm Bureau grants fund teacher projects; Center of Opportunity to heat greenhouse for student-led program

Justin Edwards, appearing on behalf of the North Carolina Farm Bureau, told the Duplin County Board on Jan. 6 that the bureau awards 25 grants twice a year (up to $500 each) and that two Duplin County teachers received grants in the current cycle.

Edwards identified one recipient, Victoria Newkirk, and introduced Rena Patrick from the Center of Opportunity to explain her grant-funded project. "The grant that I wrote was for us to be able to heat the greenhouse," Patrick said, describing a student-led learning opportunity to revive an underused greenhouse, plant starters and create hands-on class experiences.

Patrick said community partners donated materials and expertise: an extension representative, John Gorganis, provided strawberry starters and seed trays, and other local volunteers assisted with fertilizer and pesticide guidance. The Farm Bureau provided a potting bench and solar-operated heat lamps; Patrick said the next step is to explore solar panels to power additional equipment.

"We can use it as an incentive," Patrick said, describing how the greenhouse will support smaller classes and provide peer interaction for students who need extra supports.

Edwards cited local outcomes from similar projects, saying he recently spoke with a former student who is now pursuing an agronomy degree at North Carolina State University — an example he offered of how small school grants can affect long-term educational pathways.

What happens next: Patrick asked community experts to contact her about solar options and volunteers; the Farm Bureau-provided equipment and grant-funded heater will support spring planting and student activities.