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Teachers and students outline greenhouse and outdoor classroom overhaul, seek small grant
Summary
Teachers Melissa Harris and Lydia Hoye presented students’ greenhouse redesign and outdoor classroom plans, reported maintenance burdens and proposed repurposed materials and grant funding of up to $3,000 to seed further work.
Teachers Melissa Harris and Lydia Hoye and several students presented plans on Jan. 4 to renovate the school greenhouse and outdoor classroom, showing drawings, SketchUp models and a plan to repurpose materials to limit cost.
Melissa Harris said maintenance issues over the summer consumed instructional time. "We had irrigation systems constantly, busting and heating repair," Harris said, describing more than 200 hours spent on maintenance instead of instruction. The presenters showed student sketches and a CNC‑cut acrylic panel concept intended to reduce rot and maintenance; the estimated cost for the acrylic front and materials on the prototype was roughly $600–$750, using many repurposed supplies the class already had.
The team said they plan to apply to a local "op shop" grant that offers up to $3,000; the application window opens in mid‑February and closes at the end of March, and funds — if awarded — would likely arrive in mid‑ to late‑April. The presenters emphasized a phased approach and student engagement across grade bands, including 5th graders who were involved in early review and feedback.
Trustees and staff offered practical suggestions, including a local soil source ("307 Soil" from Crowheart) and cautioned that full greenhouse renovation may require phased work to get irrigation, soil and structural elements addressed. No board action was taken; staff were asked to return with more detailed cost estimates for bed designs and exterior improvements.
Details extracted: - Maintenance burden: presenters cited more than 200 hours of maintenance over a summer period. - Prototype materials cost (estimate): about $600–$750 for the inside bed front and acrylic if new materials were purchased; presenters emphasized reuse of on‑hand materials to lower costs. - Grant opportunity: local grant up to $3,000; application mid‑February through end of March; funds expected mid/late April if awarded.
The presentation stressed student learning outcomes (STEAM/STEM) and increased student engagement as motivating factors for the renovation plans.
