Key Takeaways:
- The initiative, led by NY Sun Works, aims to integrate hydroponic technologies into the school’s sustainability science curriculum.
- A new hydroponic farm classroom has been introduced at Richmond Hill High School in Queens, supported by City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ discretionary capital funding.
- The classroom’s opening ceremony was attended by notable figures such as Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. and City Council Member Lynn Schulman.
- This move is part of a broader effort to incorporate sustainability and science education in New York schools.
- Richmond Hill High School now joins a network of 70 partner schools in Queens benefiting from the hydroponic farming education program.
Introduction of Hydroponic Technologies in Education
Richmond Hill High School in Queens recently celebrated the opening of a new hydroponic farm classroom, funded through City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ discretionary capital funding. The initiative is designed to bolster the school’s sustainability science curriculum, utilizing hydroponic technologies to foster a practical understanding of sustainable farming practices.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Education
At the ribbon-cutting event, NY Sun Works Executive Director Manuela Zamora expressed the organization’s commitment to advancing climate science and sustainability education. Zamora highlighted, “We are honored to build new opportunities for climate science and sustainability education in one of New York’s most diverse high schools, and welcome Richmond Hill High School to our cohort of Queens schools.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. emphasized the educational value of the hydroponic labs, stating, “A well-rounded education is one that combines science with sustainability and agriculture with community. That is exactly what hydroponics labs like the one we’re unveiling at Richmond Hill High School offer our students and their families.”
Council Member Lynn Schulman also noted the importance of such initiatives in preparing students for future challenges. Schulman remarked, “As our world continues to change, it’s imperative that our students have access to the latest education and technology to empower them to address global challenges.”
Enhancing Education through Innovation
The introduction of the hydroponic classroom at Richmond Hill High School is seen as a step towards diversifying the school’s educational offerings. Principal Tarek Alamarie mentioned, “The hydroponics lab is another example of our course offerings that are innovative, unique, career-oriented, and culturally responsive.”
Assistant Principal Danixa Rivera shared her excitement about the project, acknowledging the collaboration and support that made it possible. Rivera said, “This project is a culmination of dedication from so many – Council Speaker Adams’ vital funding made it possible, NY Sun Works provided the exceptional curriculum and support, and our elected officials championed this initiative throughout.”
Broadening the Scope of Climate Education
This hydroponic farm classroom at Richmond Hill High School is part of a larger effort to incorporate hydroponic farming and sustainability education into the New York school system. With the school joining a network of 70 funded partner schools in Queens, the program spearheaded by NY Sun Works and supported by city officials aims to expand access to innovative science education, addressing broader issues such as climate change, food insecurity, and sustainable urban living.
NY Sun Works Latest News
PS 147 Commemorates 10 Years (2024/03/15)
PS 147 in Brooklyn celebrated the 10th anniversary of its hydroponic farming program with a newly renovated classroom. The program empowers students to explore STEM fields and find solutions to climate challenges. With over 146 partner schools in Brooklyn alone, NY Sun Works continues to expand its influence with plans to install 26 labs in new partner schools this school year. The hydroponic farm classrooms offer a model for sustainable learning and increase access to fresh produce for students and their families.
NY Sun Works Launches New Hydroponic Farm Classroom at PS 23 in Brooklyn (2024/01/26)
NY Sun Works has opened a hydroponic farm classroom at PS 23, The Carter G. Woodson Elementary School in Brooklyn. The lab is part of a $500,000 grant-funded project to enhance STEAM education in public schools. NY Sun Works aims to provide hydroponics technology for young learners and encourage STEM engagement. PS 23 is among 12 public schools in Brooklyn that have implemented hydroponic farming classrooms. NY Sun Works partners with 146 schools in Brooklyn and plans to install 26 more labs this school year. Hydroponic farming is at the heart of NY Sun Works’ approach, providing an immersive learning experience for students in urban farming and sustainability.
Launches Advanced Urban Farm Classroom in Queens (2023/11/03)
NY Sun Works has unveiled a new greenhouse and hydroponic farm classroom at Village Academy in Far Rockaway, Queens. The facility features aquaponic and hydroponic technologies to enhance the school’s sustainability science curriculum. The initiative aims to empower students with quality climate education and provide access to fresh food. Village Academy joins 66 funded partner schools in Queens, reflecting a commitment to expanding climate education and addressing food insecurity. The program includes professional development for educators and support from hydroponic specialists.
Image provided by New York Sun Works
