North Decatur FFA teachers receive professional development, classroom grants

Two teachers awarded 3 grants through Lilly Endowment

(GREENSBURG, Ind.) – Two North Decatur agricultural educators recently earned grants from the Lilly Endowment. 

Katie Morman is one of 25 FFA teachers in Indiana to receive a $2,500 National FFA Professional Development Grant. That grant will be used to help Morman enhance her teaching practices by attending a convention in Tennessee. 

Morman was also the recipient of the Lilly Endowment’s National FFA Classroom Enhancement Grant of $10,000, which is awarded to just 33 Indiana agricultural programs. 

"This grant will allow us to acquire essential hands-on materials and equipment for our Animal Science courses, significantly improving students' understanding and practical skills in animal husbandry, management, and care. By providing real-world experiences, we aim to foster vital skills needed in the agricultural industry. These hands-on activities will enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings, effectively bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations,” she said. 

North Decatur’s Alaina Kessler also received the $10,000 National FFA Classroom Enhancement Grant. 

Kessler said she will use the funds to buy seven mobile workbench cabinets and sixteen stools. 

“These workbenches will serve a dual purpose, offering both tool storage and flexibility in the workplace. In addition, we will introduce two tower gardens, allowing students to actively engage in hydroponic agriculture and seed propagation. With this funding, our agricultural program will be better equipped to deliver hands-on, practical experiences that prepare students for real-world applications in mechanics and plant science,” Kessler said.