Piney Woods Welcomes EdChoice to Campus for a Meaningful Visit

The Piney Woods School recently welcomed representatives and guests from EdChoice to campus for a meaningful visit centered on educational opportunity, student empowerment, and the Piney Woods model of learning.

EdChoice is a nonprofit organization that advocates for educational freedom and school choice programs across the United States. The organization works to help families access educational options that best fit their children’s academic, social, and personal needs.

The purpose of the EdChoice campus visit was to provide guests with an opportunity to explore Piney Woods’ historic model of educational excellence, leadership development, and student empowerment. The tour was designed to encourage collaboration, inspire innovative educational practices, and deepen understanding of how The Piney Woods School creates transformative outcomes for students and communities.

The visit began with welcome remarks in the library, including greetings from Dr. Will Crossley, followed by a campus tour led by Dr. Edwards. Guests visited a classroom lab, viewed the gym, toured the farm, explored the cabins, and participated in a campus ride led by student ambassadors. The day concluded with lunch, questions, closing remarks, and feedback.

Participants traveled from various states across the country to attend the visit. Michelle K. Banner, Events Director for EdChoice, served as the group leader onsite, while Emory Edwards, Vice President of Outreach and Entrepreneurship for EdChoice, helped coordinate the experience and visit logistics.

One of the most impactful moments of the day took place during lunch, when guests had the opportunity to meet members of the Piney Woods staff and hear directly from graduating seniors. Visitors were especially engaged during conversations with Principal Gross and asked thoughtful questions about student success, future opportunities, and the mission of the school.

Throughout the visit, guests expressed genuine excitement about the work taking place at Piney Woods and the opportunities available to learners. Their time on campus provided meaningful engagement with prospective families and educational stakeholders, while also allowing visitors to experience the heart of the Piney Woods community firsthand.

Since the visit, members of the group have referred students for enrollment and for the upcoming summer camp. Guests also shared positive feedback about the experience — including the honey they purchased on campus, produced from Piney Woods’ own bee hives on the farm.

The Piney Woods School is grateful for the opportunity to welcome EdChoice to campus and share the mission, history, and continued impact of our school. Visits like this help expand awareness of Piney Woods and strengthen connections with families, partners, and advocates who believe in educational opportunity and student-centered transformation.