Devon Energy selected Shattuck, Hennessey and Lomega High Schools’ FFA chapters to receive over $14,000 in total grants for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education.
Shattuck FFA’s funds will go towards the Indian Biddy Barn project, in which students will purchase a housing facility to raise broiler chickens. In addition to the housing facility, the chapter will purchase incubators and necessary supplies for chicken laying, hatching and brooding. The project will serve as an educational experience, could potentially provide meat and eggs for the school lunch program and presents future fundraising opportunities.
With its funds, the Hennessey High School chapter will purchase a pulsed electromagnetic field machine, allowing students to learn a new skill and more safely treat illnesses and injuries in livestock.
High schoolers in Lomega, in conjunction with chapters in Bartlesville and Newcastle, are excited to purchase radio broadcasting equipment, a drone and a DSLR camera to assist with in-class assignments and presentations.
“We’re looking forward to witnessing the innovative work students will create with this state-of-the-art equipment,” said Holly Blakey, executive director of the Oklahoma FFA Foundation. “Devon’s generous grants will help open avenues to successful careers in the agriscience industry for these young people.”
Devon started the FFA Technology & Innovation Grants to increase students’ access to innovative technologies being used in the agriculture industry and provide hands-on learning opportunities.
“Having resources to experiment and gain real-world experience fosters student ingenuity and creativity,” said Christina Rehkop, director of community relations for Devon. “We look forward to seeing the unique FFA projects positively impact our state’s children.”
