Ashton-Franklin Center Teacher Secures Grant for Unique Supplies

Mellisa McMillan, an agriculture teacher at Ashton-Franklin Center High School, is transforming her classroom supply list to include specialized items like welding gloves and woodworking tools. With a total of approximately 85 students enrolled in her agriculture classes this semester, McMillan aims to enhance the learning experience by securing essential materials that extend beyond typical school supplies.

Earlier this year, McMillan successfully applied for a grant worth $4,500 from the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s Agribusiness Committee. The grant will fund the purchase of necessary equipment for her program, enabling her to provide students with updated tools and resources. “I thought I’ll just apply; we can always use new and updated equipment for the classroom and the shop,” McMillan explained.

Agriculture education encompasses a diverse range of subjects, including plant science, horticulture, welding, and construction. As a result, the supply needs of an agriculture classroom differ significantly from those of traditional academic settings. “An ag department is such a different animal when it comes to the supplies we need and use,” McMillan noted. Along with welding tools, she plans to acquire lab tables and other equipment that will directly support her students’ success in the field.

Supporting Agriculture Education in the Region

The agriculture education grant program administered by the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is part of broader efforts to enhance vocational learning in the region. “We raise funds for ag education, which can benefit local FFA and agriculture education programs, the University of Illinois Extension, and 4-H programs,” said Dallas Knack, executive director of the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. The committee also supports the CEO program at the Whiteside Area Career Center.

The primary fundraising event for the Agribusiness Committee is the annual Steak Fry in the Country, held every August. Knack explained that proceeds from this event contribute to workforce development and scholarships in agriculture. “The funds specifically from that event go to our ag scholarships,” he added.

The committee comprises ten members representing various sectors, including agriculture lenders, insurance, and agribusiness, alongside local educational institutions. As part of its outreach, the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is finalizing plans for its largest event of the year, the annual meeting and dinner, scheduled for January 29, 2025, at the McCormick Center in Rock Falls.

This year’s theme, “Dinner Undercover,” is being developed by students in the CEO program. “The CEO students choose the theme, they provide the entertainment, and they also act as hosts for the event,” Knack explained. The annual gathering will also recognize outstanding contributions in the community with awards, including the Chamber Champion and Ambassador of the Year.

The SVACC will present the first-ever emerging leader award as part of its Sauk Valley Under 40 initiative. The event is open exclusively to SVACC members, with ticket sales closing on January 20, 2025. Tickets can be purchased at the SVACC office in Sterling or by calling 815-625-2400.

As the agriculture program at Ashton-Franklin Center High School continues to evolve, McMillan’s proactive approach to securing funding and resources exemplifies a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for her students. With support from local organizations, her vision for a well-equipped learning environment is becoming a reality.