Tullahoma SDA Christian School starts organic agriculture program

During the 2020-2021 school year, Tullahoma, Tenn., SDA Christian School started an organic agriculture program. The curriculum, led by Pastor Brian Milano from Tullahoma and Murfreesboro, Tenn., church, aims to advance holistic Adventist education.

“My understanding of what Adventist education is supposed to incorporate, as Ellen White puts it, is mind, body and spirit,” Milano said.  “[With the agriculture program] students can spend time outside, draw spiritual lessons and learn practical skills that they'll be able to use their entire lives.”

Together with Milano, students built a 30 feet by 12 feet greenhouse on the school’s 8-acres campus. They have planted a variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, carrots, cucumber, peppers, and kale.

The program was funded through the donations of church members. Milano says he hopes that the school can build another greenhouse this year and eventually transform the program into a self-supporting project.

“I'm hoping that our program can make some money to sponsor students and support the school,” Milano said. “I also want students to come out of this

embracing organic agriculture and our health message.”