OA student earns Eagle Scout through school project

(OLDENBURG, Ind.) – An Oldenburg Academy student earned his Eagle Scout by  giving back to his school.

Cayden Lieland constructed three raised garden beds for the school’s science and culinary arts programs. 

Lieland said he wanted to choose a project that would benefit OA for years to come. 

“I learned that a well-planned project takes time, effort, and patience. These raised beds will help students grow plants, provide fresh produce for the cafeteria, and hopefully inspire more students to try gardening at home,” Lieland said. 

Cayden couldn’t complete the project alone. He credits his dad, Oldenburg biology teacher Justin Hartman, and his scoutmasters for helping and supporting the project. 

He also thanked Schrank Sawmill in Oldenburg for donating the wood for the project. 

“These raised beds will be a fantastic resource for our students. They provide hands-on opportunities to learn about plant science, sustainability, and food systems, bringing classroom lessons to life,” said OA teacher Justin Hartman.

The raised beds sit adjacent to the Academy’s greenhouse which was built in 2023.