Monterey High School welcomed residents and elected officials to join the school in celebrating its greenhouse grand opening Wednesday morning.
Agriculture Teacher Tyler Vester said the great turnout displayed the community’s resounding support for the new program. He said the greenhouse is already home to thriving ferns, flowers, and vegetables. Agriculture Teacher Aaron Walls said students have been keen on getting hands-on plant science experience.
“Not only are we giving them those hands-on opportunities, but we’re preparing them for real-world experiences in their future careers, all through operating this greenhouse at Monterey High School,” Walls said. “So, I really think it’s the cherry on top for those students who are enrolled in Agricultural Education.”
Walls said growing started in March, but it took time to get water and heat connected to the greenhouse. He said the facility is finally fully operational and students are inside daily. He said the school has already held a plant sale, allowing the students to deploy their skills in business and economics as well.
“It’s kind of a chip on my shoulder, a little bit of pride in my heart for my students that it’s also incredible to watch them interact with the community as well,” Walls said. “So, I really think these are lessons that they’re going to carry with them far beyond just their high school careers.”
He said the greenhouse will be open from 8:00am-5:00pm on weekdays and 8:00am-1:00pm on Saturdays. He said many students saw parts arrive throughout last semester and scratched their heads at what they could be used for or how those items played a role in growing a plant. He said he’s been impressed with how they have caught on.
“To see it come full circle and have those same students see what they’ve done in the greenhouse, but also help members of the community purchase their plants, pick out their plants, tell them what the plants are, what they need to survive, and what their best growing environment is,” Walls said.
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