Devon Energy donated to RestoreOKC to expand the organization’s 5-acre farm infrastructure and increase capacity for programming. And the Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust awarded the grant to John Rex Charter School to assist with the purchase of education-targeted technology.
Devon donates to expands Restore OKC
Devon Energy donated to RestoreOKC to expand the organization’s 5-acre farm infrastructure and increase capacity for programming.
RestoreOKC works to bring reconciliation to communities marked by deep injustice, oppression and division through urban farming. The farm employs over 20 local high school students and teaches them STEM, hydroponics, agriscience and leadership skills.
Devon’s gift provides new retaining walls, production areas and an amphitheater for community events. Plus, it integrates technologies in the Restore Farms greenhouse to expose youth to a variety of growing methodologies.
“Devon’s investment helps expose youth to where their food comes from and teaches real-life skills,” said RestoreOKC director Caylee Dodson. “We’re thankful for the company’s support of Northeast Oklahoma City and efforts to facilitate reconciliation in our community.”
Devon summer interns recently volunteered at the farm and harvested vegetables, composted, mulched, pulled weeds, planted and more.
“RestoreOKC’s work is important and inspiring,” said Tana Cashion, executive vice president of human resources and administration at Devon. “We’re proud to support their work to help young people understand STEM concepts through farming and the unity they seek to build throughout Oklahoma City.”
Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust donates $40,000 to John Rex Charter School
The competitive grant is awarded to individual schools or districts to assist with the purchase of education-targeted technology.
JRCS will use the funds to design a new science, technology, engineering, arts and math laboratory where students will be encouraged to explore their interests and develop new skills.
“JRCS champions innovation and creativity, and the future we envision for our students is deeply rooted in career exploration,” said JRCS superintendent Patrick Duffy. “Students have expressed an interest in content creation, digital artwork, 3D printing and other areas. We look forward to bringing these dreams to life and witnessing the impact on our school and downtown community.”
The new STEAM lab will include equipment allowing students to experiment with screen printing, embroidery, laser cutting, engraving and broadcasting.
“Elementary school is when many students begin making decisions that will influence their future careers,” Duffy said. “We have a responsibility to help them discover all possible options, and we are grateful to OETT for making this work possible.”
The new STEAM lab is set to be complete for the coming school year.
