XJH Greenhouse
Vision
Through our unique and enriched curriculum, the mission and vision of Xavier Junior High School is to foster life-long learning skills within the total person.
Action
The students at Xavier Junior High School undertook an action project to obtain a greenhouse for the school to grow their own food and reduce food waste. They presented their proposal to various stakeholders, including the school administration, local businesses, the town council, and the school board, successfully securing funding of $6,112.25 from the Town of Deer Lake for a prefab greenhouse. They also received numerous donations of materials, construction assistance from Solutions Construction and Robbins Family Farm, and financial contributions from local organizations and a school fundraiser, totaling over $2,500 in value and cash. While initial site plans were disrupted by power line concerns, an alternative location at the rear of the school has been approved, and they are working with the contractor’s schedule, aiming for completion by the end of the school year on June 27th. The greenhouse will provide a valuable learning environment for students and allow the school to contribute fresh produce to the community during the summer months through a partnership with a local church.
Reflection & Celebration
What an incredible journey it has been to witness this vision of a school greenhouse blossom into a tangible reality! This project stands as a powerful testament to the students’ initiative, their persuasive communication skills, and their unwavering dedication to creating a more sustainable and enriching learning environment. The overwhelming support garnered from the school administration, local businesses, the town council, and the wider community truly highlights the power of collaboration and the shared belief in the value of this endeavor. Overcoming the unexpected hurdle with the initial location demonstrates remarkable adaptability and problem-solving skills. As we eagerly anticipate the final construction, let’s celebrate the significant milestones achieved, the valuable partnerships forged, and the profound impact this greenhouse will undoubtedly have on the students’ education and the local community for years to come. This is more than just a greenhouse; it’s a living symbol of what can be accomplished through passion, perseverance, and the collective spirit of a community.
Links
Check out these links for photos and details of our project: presentation 1, presentation 2