Transforming Our Farm into an Active Classroom

Our Youth Life Skills Academy is a way for young people to develop in-demand skills for job success. We offer a full-day workshop every fall that allows kids to explore several different areas to help them discover their interests. Some workshop classes include:

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
– In this class, youth have the chance to try their hand at 3D printing and robotics. They can learn all about how products are manufactured in the modern era. They also learn about prototyping and how to bring their ideas to life in 3D.

Agricultural Science
– This class is all about organic agriculture and gardening. Students gain entrepreneurial thinking skills, identify business opportunities, and learn how to start a business in agriculture.

Culinary Arts
– This class emphasizes healthy cooking while inspiring students who might want to someday open their own restaurant, bakery, or other food-related business. They learn necessary culinary and entrepreneurial skills.

Maker Workshop
– For the creative students, we offer a class that helps them hone their craft. Participants get to make their own jewelry, design and decorate t-shirts, hats, and other accessories. By the end, they’re ready to launch a new fashion line or open a small business.

Youth Enrichment and Life Skills Instructors

Christina and Tasha as part of a collaboration with the

Innovative Networking Group.

Christina Debrew

Christina Williams-DeBrew graduated from Elizabeth City State University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. She returned to Halifax County to serve as an educator in both the elementary and the middle school sector for several years. In 2010, she was selected to attend the Northeast Leadership Academy offered at North Carolina State University where she received her Master of School Administration two years later. She served as a school administrator for six years, where her daily affirmation was “If It Has to Be It Begins With Me.”

Tasha Williams

Tasha Williams has always had a passion for the underserved. She spent the first 17 years of her career in education as a resource teacher for students with learning disabilities. The last seven of those years she served as the Transition Specialist for the Exceptional Children Department. She’s happy to now carry the same passion into the business and social community, educating and providing an array of services to youth and adults.

Tasha holds a BS in Criminal Justice, a BA in Education (Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities), and a Master of Arts in Education Teacher Leadership.