Gary students awarded $25,000 in Samsung contest

GARY, Ind. (WLS) -- Students at a school in Gary Ind. were surprised by an honor Thursday morning for their gardening efforts.

The students at the McCullough Academy for Girls were one of 15 finalists for their work to build a greenhouse and community garden to grow fresh food in a food desert area.

The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest encourages teachers and students to solve issues in their community using science, technology, engineering and math for a chance to win a share of $2 million in technology.

The school was named the winner of the Civic Engagement Award and will receive $25,000 in technology.