Todd Morris, co-leader of the GRITS (Growing Relationships in the Soil) program, told the Eatonville School District board that volunteers and maintenance staff helped install a new greenhouse that will let students start seeds, expand plant sales and learn transferable greenhouse skills.

The greenhouse was approved and purchased through the district; local volunteers including Rick Christiansen, Neil Kerr and Tom Bobus led construction and taught students practical trade skills, Morris said. The district also received donated utilities, including power, water and a phone line, and plans to install fans and ventilation. Board members presented certificates of appreciation to volunteers for their work.

Why it matters: The greenhouse will let GRITS start seeds earlier, run a larger plant sale at the district’s Mayday event and offer students hands-on experience with greenhouse operations that program leaders hope will prepare some participants for local greenhouse employment.

Todd Morris said the program had previously used amateur “arrow kit” structures that were not sealed against animals and weather and that the new greenhouse will provide a more reliable space. “We build community through meaningful work,” Morris said, describing the program’s emphasis on both horticulture and work ethic.

Presenters said students took meaningful ownership of the build; two students, Brett and Caden, were described as taking on most of the on-site responsibilities. Volunteers did the more technical tasks (roof panels and electrical connections) while students completed other construction and landscaping work.

District staff said a local organization identified in the meeting as OHAF made a substantial donation to help cover utility and site-preparation costs; the precise dollar amount was not specified in the meeting materials. The board formally recognized the volunteers during the public meeting and handed out certificates of appreciation.

Board members and staff said the greenhouse will serve as a “hub” for the GRITS program and a dry, secure space to store supplies and run school-based plant production. Program leaders said they intend to reach out to area professional greenhouse operators to align student training with local workforce needs.

Ending: Program leaders asked the board and community to view a display of photos and student testimonials after the meeting. District staff said the greenhouse should be fully operational for the next school year.