Staten Island high school students recently gained hands-on experience in environmental technology when they harvested fresh vegetables in their new hydroponic classroom.
At Port Richmond High School, over a dozen freshmen and sophomores gathered lettuce, kale, and herbs last month in a classroom equipped with soil-less technology. This unique learning opportunity aims to prepare students for careers in science, technology, nutrition, and environmental studies by giving them practical exposure to urban food production.
The hydroponic classroom is one of 22 labs supported by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) across New York City this year. The systems, designed by the non-profit NY Sun Works, include seeding stations, a tower garden, hanging vines, and a composting station, providing students with a comprehensive view of sustainable farming methods.
Principal Andrew Greenfield joined the students as they celebrated the success of their harvest, highlighting the importance of these innovative educational tools in shaping the future of environmental sustainability.