To support education and community well-being, Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital & Clinics is donating a state-of-the-art hydroponic garden to Washington Middle School. The project aims to cultivate not only fresh produce but also a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture, nutrition and environmental stewardship among the students.
Aspirus Health is committed to promoting health and strengthening communities and recognizes the importance of education that extends beyond traditional classroom learning. The hydroponic garden donation is a step toward fostering an understanding for students of the connection between food, health and the environment.
“We are excited to donate this hydroponic unit to the students at CLK Schools,” said Jenn Jenich-Laplander, Communications and Engagement Coordinator from Aspirus Health. “This garden is designed to be hands-on and interactive while offering unique learning opportunities for the students.”
Hydroponic systems allow for year-round cultivation, providing continuous learning opportunities regardless of the weather and season. The hydroponic garden uses innovative technology to grow a variety of vegetables, fruits and herbs without soil and in as little as 23 days. A hydroponic garden used exclusively to grow lettuce can yield 7,260 servings of leafy green annually.
The hydroponic garden will serve as an interdisciplinary learning tool, allowing students to explore various subjects such as biology, science and nutrition.
“We are thrilled to have this opportunity presented from Aspirus,” said Joel Asiala, Principal of Washington Middle School. “Our students will be able to actively participate in planting, monitoring and maintaining the hydroponic gardens and teach our students about sustainable practice.”
This collaboration between Aspirus Health and Calumet-Laurium-Keweenaw School System cultivates knowledge, health and sustainability. The hydroponic garden stands as a symbol of shared commitment to community enrichment. This initiative reflects the belief in the power of education to inspire positive change and create a healthier, more sustainable future for all.