Rockland BOCES SkillsUSA is grant recipient

Rockland BOCES SkillsUSA is the recipient of a grant from Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation. The funding, which totals more than $8,000, will be used by career and technical education students to upgrade the Haverstraw Community Garden. It’s expected that students will begin their hands-on garden work sometime in March.

The Haverstraw Garden has served as a learning environment for Haverstraw Middle School students, and “row” renters have donated portions of their crops to local food pantries.

According to SkillsUSA leadership, this grant will allow students in a variety of career education programs to bring about positive change. The garden upgrade project will be entirely student-led. Students will determine the materials needed and calculate the pricing before digging in. They will also develop a media plan, film the project, and plan the grand-opening ceremony.

SkillsUSA at Rockland BOCES has a record 125 members this year. The club’s advisor is Patrick Mitrione, CTEC graphic design instructor. SkillsUSA is a national, nonprofit organization serving teachers, high school, and college students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations. Areas of focus include leadership, teamwork, citizenship and character development.

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