The Young Women's Leadership Academy, partnered with ExxonMobil, opened its newly revamped learning space and greenhouse. The project aimed to transform the area into a thriving educational hub dedicated to water conservation, native plant cultivation, and outdoor learning. Midland ISD said key features of the revamped space include the rehabilitation of cisterns to capture rainwater, and the renovation of the greenhouse into a functional classroom/lab to create a sustainable ecosystem.
Adding benches and optimizing existing structures provides ample space for learning and hands-on exploration of native plants. The project also fosters a sense of community through planned volunteer workdays involving students, families, Exxon employees, and members of the Southside communities.
"We are excited to unveil this enhanced space that aligns perfectly with our educational goals," said YWLA Principal Laura Doughty. "This project not only promotes environmental stewardship, but also creates a dynamic outdoor learning environment for our students. We are honored to inherit the space and continue the work of those who came before us at Booker T. Washington and grateful to ExxonMobil for having the vision and providing us the funding to help us build upon the work started by PTOs of the past."
"We are thrilled to support the renovation of the YWLA Outdoor Education space," said Keith Underwood, Midland Production Manager at ExxonMobil. "We believe that providing students with a dynamic and engaging outdoor learning environment will inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators."
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