Mini-Hydroponic Growing Systems: Native Plant Species
The Foundation granted Mr. Tomlinson and Mrs. Voicheck at Evergreen Elementary a Mini-Hydroponic Growing System so that they could grow native plant species in their classrooms.
Mr. Tomlinson and Mrs. Voicheck wanted to implement a hydroponics-based educational initiative aimed at cultivating native plants, with
a particular focus on species conducive to riparian buffer zones along the Perkiomen Creek waterway. This innovative grant continues the work of a former grant awarded to them, Trout in the Classroom. This grant would continue that learning by connecting the importance of local plant life to the coldwater ecosystem. By integrating hydroponic systems into our educational programs, we aspire to empower students with hands-on experiences in sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and community engagement.
The integration of hydroponic growth and planting of native species allows for the next level of engagement with our local community waterway. Students will not only be studying the native species that are integral to the health of our Perkiomen Creek (and the Rainbow Trout we are raising and releasing!), but they will also learn about the science standards and content behind plant growth in a hands-on fashion. When the plants are big enough to transfer, Mr. Tomlinson and Mrs. Viocheck plan on involving students and the community in restoring and preserving riparian ecosystems along the Perkiomen Creek waterway.
March 25, 2024
April 9, 2024
The herbs that came with the kit took off like crazy. They are now home with fourth-grade students from Evergreen Elementary. Mrs. Voicheck and Mr. Tomlinson are now working on growing native plants!
Support Projects like Mini-Hydroponic Growing Systems
Teachers don’t always have access to materials, technology, and other resources that can make the difference between a lesson that is forgotten the next day and one that lasts beyond graduation. That’s where you come in. Your contribution to the PVSD Foundation helps ensure that the Foundation can continue to support teachers in delivering enriching educational opportunities for all students when tax dollars and traditional streams of revenue fall short.