Students Cultivate Fresh Food at Carter G. Woodson Academy

News Summary

At Carter G. Woodson Academy in Lexington, students are engaging in hands-on agriculture education by growing fresh food through a hydroponic container farm. Launched in 2019, the program allows students to learn sustainable practices while producing lettuce for their cafeteria. They work in small groups to grow and harvest crops while collaborating with local vendors to support the farm’s operations. The initiative not only promotes food sustainability but also provides students with essential agricultural skills and a sense of community.

Fresh Food Grows at Carter G. Woodson Academy in Lexington

In Lexington, something exciting is happening at Carter G. Woodson Academy. Students are diving deep into the world of agriculture, learning not just about growing food but also about sustainable practices that are good for the planet. Thanks to an innovative program, these young minds are now growing delicious food for their very own school’s cafeteria.

Hydroponic Marvels in Action

The magic happens in a hydroponic container farm that has been transforming the school’s approach to agriculture since 2019. The main crop? Crisp, fresh lettuce! Under the guidance of their dedicated agriculture teacher, students are tapping into a method of farming that is completely soil-free and controlled within an environmentally friendly indoor space.

The Journey of Discovery

Before it became a vital part of the curriculum, this hydroponic container was a rare gem in Kentucky. With only about 12 similar farms in schools across the state, the program reflects a significant shift toward engaging students with hands-on, modern farming techniques. Particularly since it arrived at Woodson Academy from AppHarvest, a notable agriculture tech company in Eastern Kentucky, students have seized the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge farming practices.

Classroom to Farm

Starting from their sophomore year, students enrolled in the greenhouse technology class get practical experience growing and harvesting. This class covers essential plant science topics like anatomy and optimal growing conditions. Currently, about 15-20 students are actively involved, working in small groups, ensuring that they all play a part in the food they are producing.

Water-Saving Practices

The hydroponic system is not just cool; it is also environmentally responsible! It saves water by recycling excess through the roots of the plants in a shallow stream. And the results? Well, in just about six to eight weeks, these diligent students can produce up to 275 heads of lettuce, resulting in about 50 to 60 pounds of fresh produce at peak times.

From School to Community

But it’s not just about feeding themselves. A portion of the lettuce finds its way straight to the school cafeteria, where students take pride in eating food they helped grow. Additionally, they collaborate with local vendors like Woodhill International Market and FoodChain to sell some of their harvest, which brings in funds crucial for operating the farm and supports activities linked with Future Farmers of America.

More Than Just Farming

While running the farm may seem like a business, its core mission is to educate the students. They are getting a taste of industry-level farming, learning skills that could guide them into future careers in agriculture. It’s a wonderful way for these future leaders to understand the significance of innovative agriculture methods.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

The experience isn’t just about plants; it’s about collaboration. Sharing responsibilities for planting, caring for the crops, and harvesting builds a sense of community among the students. Each one brings something unique to the table, ensuring that teamwork remains an essential part of their farming experience.

Bridging Passion and Practicality

For some, like senior students, this experience is more than just learning. It connects them to their passion for agriculture, providing a unique insight into modern, tech-savvy farming practices. The students celebrate their efforts as they cultivate not only plants but also a profound appreciation for sustainable living.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

Carter G. Woodson Academy is more than just an educational institution; it is a pioneering space where young men learn, grow, and form a stronger connection with the food they consume and the environment they live in. With each head of lettuce harvested and every lesson learned, these students are truly cultivating a brighter, sustainable future for themselves and their community.