From left, Jacob Williams and Tony Williams of Williams Fabrication; Jason VanNess and Sid Ramkumar of the Maag Group; and Jimmy Hogendobler of Wiley’s Garden Center were recognized by the Alleghany Highlands School Board on March 16 as part of the Virginia School Boards Association Business Honor Roll for their ongoing support of local students through partnerships with Alleghany Highlands Public Schools. (AHPS Photo)

School Board Honors Business Partners through VSBA   Low Moor, VA (March 17, 2026) - The Alleghany Highlands School Board recognized three community partners at its March 16 meeting through the Virginia School Boards Association Business Honor Roll, highlighting their strong commitment to local students and public education. The Business Honor Roll highlights organizations that invest in schools, especially during times of budget uncertainty, and provides a way for divisions to say thank you for their vital role in education. Wiley’s Garden Center was honored for its partnership with Covington Middle School through STEM Next Door in collaboration with Virginia Tech Applied Research Corporation (VT-ARC). Through hands-on visits to Wiley’s greenhouse, students connect classroom science lessons to real-world agricultural practices. Jimmy Hogendobler provides engaging instruction on topics such as soil acidity and plant health, while owner Adam Kenny expanded the experience by donating hydroponic stands that allow students to grow lettuce in their classrooms. The partnership extends learning beyond a single visit and into daily instruction. Special recognition also goes to the Covington City Manager Allen Dressler and the City of Covington for helping establish this public-private partnership to benefit students. Maag Group, formerly Gala Industries, was recognized for more than 20 years of support for the Jackson River Technical Center welding program. Donations of stainless steel and aluminum give students access to materials that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive, allowing them to train at a college level and expand dual enrollment opportunities. The company’s support has also contributed to the program’s success in SkillsUSA competitions, including four national champions and numerous state and district winners. Williams Fabrication, formerly JenFab, also has supported the JRTC welding program for more than two decades. Ongoing donations of carbon steel provide students with hands-on experience that leads to industry certifications and dual-enrollment credits through Mountain Gateway Community College. The company’s commitment has helped students compete and succeed at the state and national levels in SkillsUSA. “We are grateful for partners who invest in opportunities that expand learning beyond the classroom and into meaningful career pathways,” said Kim Halterman and Melinda Snead-Johnson, leaders of AHPS. “Their collaboration strengthens our programs and helps students earn real-world experience and valuable credentials.” “These partnerships reflect the strength of our community and our shared investment in students,” said Jon Lanford, School Board chair. “Our local businesses truly partner with us to prepare students for the future. Their support makes a lasting impact across our schools and community.”

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