Green Ventures Academy Gained New Hydroponics Farm

This October, John F. Kennedy High School was selected as one of a handful of schools to gain access to a classroom hydroponics farm. To test the prospects of the application of this farming method in schools, Kennedy had one of these farms installed in the Culinary Arts classroom. Chef Moschetti, the instructor in charge of the agricultural device, plans to make use of this to the benefit of her class and the school at large.

Hydroponics introduces a new way to grow crops without using soil. Instead, hydroponics uses water-based nutrient sources to feed plants, allowing for a more efficient and green. Being one of the first schools given this equipment is a big honor.

The most eager to utilize the farm is Chef Mari Moschetti. She has commented that she has already made plans for her class, and plans with the school cafeteria, saying that “we are going to be using some of the produce in the Culinary 2 class ⎼ and the rest of the produce will be used to elevate student lunches.” In addition to Moschetti, many of the students have displayed their eagerness to grow their own produce.

Luca Randhawa (11), who helped in the construction, has expressed their excitement ⎼ saying, “I am excited to be able to grow our own produce with it. It’s fun to grow things, that’s why I help my grandparents with planting in our garden.”

Another student, Taran Bharathidasan (11), who also helped construct the farm ⎼ commented, saying “I want to make a lettuce.”

Daniel Patton (11) and Kyle Hall (11) also aided in the installation of the farm, and likewise have expressed their enthusiasm for being able to grow and use fresh produce right next door to the kitchen. Randhawa expressed pride, “like oh! We grew this stuff ourselves, awesome!” The hydroponics farm at Kennedy has gained traction with eager culinary students looking for more excitement.

Photo by Jack Waller | Chef Moschetti is ready to utilize the hydroponics farm.