Heights seventh graders enjoy immersive learning experience at Beck’s Hybrids

Submitted

Earlier this month, all seventh-grade students from Hamilton Heights Middle School (HHMS) had the unique opportunity to visit Beck’s Hybrids’ corporate headquarters in Atlanta for an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience.

“Beck’s Hybrids Experience” has become a highly anticipated event for the seventh-grade class, providing an in-depth look at the workings of this successful family-owned company while introducing students to a wide array of career opportunities at Beck’s and in the agricultural industry.

During their visit, students learned about Beck’s rich history and deep community roots, toured its Atlanta operations, and explored key areas of the company’s work. They observed specialized farming equipment used to plant test crops, ventured through the greenhouses to learn about cross-pollination, and spent time in the quality assurance seed lab, where germination testing for corn, soybeans, and wheat under various conditions takes place. The lab provided a hands-on experience, allowing students to engage with real agricultural processes and gain insight into what farmers encounter in the field.

This experience is an essential part of the Reaching New Heights initiative, designed to provide inclusive learning opportunities for ALL students.

Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation

“We truly believe that exposure to real-world industry and careers fosters student interest and increases engagement,” said Connor James, CTE Business and Preparing for College and Careers Teacher and Reaching New Heights Contact at HHMS. “After the visit, seventh-grade English teachers Mrs. Froman and Ms. Kacer guided students in writing thank-you notes, each highlighting something they learned and appreciated. Reading these cards was a powerful reminder of how meaningful this experience was for our Heights students – it was truly special!”

James also expressed deep gratitude to Sonny and Scott Beck and the entire Beck family for their commitment to supporting students and making this opportunity possible.

“We greatly appreciate Bethany Gremel and the entire Beck’s leadership team for believing in the Reaching New Heights program and investing their time and resources into it,” James said. “Special thanks also go to Tanner Maxey, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Beck’s, for organizing and coordinating the experience, and to Andrea Brown and Ashley Schultz, Beck’s Education team members, for providing engaging, interactive lessons. Additionally, Toby Ripberger, Scott McCorkle, Bryan Will, Nathan Johnston, and Paul Compton did a fantastic job leading students through the various segments of the company’s operations.”

James concluded with heartfelt recognition for the teachers, support staff, and bus drivers who made this experience possible.

“These trips wouldn’t happen without our dedicated educators. Ms. Reeder played a tremendous role in ensuring this opportunity was available to our seventh-grade students. Thank you to ALL who contributed to this day. I have no doubt it will have a lasting impact beyond what we can imagine.”