Lowe's Donates $50,000 to THS Career Tech Education Center

Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to Talladega Career/Technical Education Center for the renovation of the Family and Consumer Science learning space. The FACS program is one of the most popular programs offered to students at Talladega High School. Students in the program develop the skills necessary to address challenges faced by individuals and families in the home, school, workplace, and community. Students learn the importance of developing the ability to think, communicate, manage, and lead which will prepare them for success in an increasingly technological and diverse society as well as the global economy.

Over the last year the FACS teacher, Kimberly Mitchell, and the director, Dr. Trellys A. Riley, have contacted numerous businesses to ask their assistance in complying with Business and Industry Certification requirements from the Alabama State Department of Education. When Ms. Mitchell and Dr. Riley applied for the grant from Lowe’s, they went to meet with the local Lowe’s Manager, Daniel Miller in Oxford. Mr. Miller took time to meet with the two of them and offered the assistance of his staff. The staff at the Oxford Lowe’s store has been extremely enthusiastic and encouraging throughout the process.

With the grant from Lowe’s, the students in the FACS program will enjoy a new kitchen facility, sewing tables, and new appliances which will allow the program to continue to meet the needs of students at Talladega High School. BIC (Business and Industry Certification) is a requirement for continued operation of all career/tech programs. The FACS program in Talladega was cited for equipment and facilities concerns from the on site review team last spring and faced a desperate situation needing to meet the requirements, but having no money to do so. According to the teacher, she and the students are thrilled and so appreciative of what Lowe’s has been able to do.

As a part of the FACS program students learn the importance of giving back to the community, and Lowe’s has certainly set a fine example for the students to model. “The grant in Talladega represents Lowe’s commitment to education,” said Larry D. Stone, chairman of Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation. “By supporting local schools like Talladega Career/Technical Education Center, we believe we are not only contributing to a cause that’s important to our customers and employees, but we’re also helping schools build a stronger foundation for the children who will be tomorrow’s employees, homeowners and community leaders.”

This type of teamwork makes great things happen for Talladega City students! Thanks to Dr. Riley and Ms. Mitchell for their hard work. Congratulations!