OA Student Earns Eagle Scout Rank by Building Raised Garden Beds for Campus Learning

Eagle Scout is the highest honor in Scouting.

Photo provided.

(Oldenburg, Ind.) - Oldenburg Academy proudly celebrates student Cayden Lieland who recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in Scouting, by planning and constructing three raised garden beds for the school’s science and culinary arts programs.

The raised beds sit adjacent to the Academy’s greenhouse, which was built in 2022–2023 as part of a senior capstone project, further expanding hands-on learning opportunities on campus.

“I chose this project so Oldenburg Academy could benefit from it for years to come,” Lieland said. “I learned that a well-planned project takes time, effort, and patience. These raised beds will help students grow plants, provide fresh produce for the cafeteria, and hopefully inspire more students to try gardening at home.”

In reflecting on the support he received, Lieland added, “I’d like to thank my dad for helping me with the construction, Mr. Hartman for approving and supporting the project, Randy Schrank from Schrank Sawmill for donating the wood, and my scoutmasters for guiding me through my entire Boy Scout journey.”

Mr. Justin Hartman, OA Biology Faculty, said, “These raised beds will be a fantastic resource for our students. They provide hands-on opportunities to learn about plant science, sustainability, and food systems, bringing classroom lessons to life.

Oldenburg Academy President Annette Hunger shared, “It’s always inspiring to see a young person use their talents to create something lasting for others. We are so proud of Cayden for the leadership and dedication he demonstrated in this project, and we know his work will continue to benefit students and teachers for years to come.”