In the remote Southeast Alaska village of Angoon, a remarkable educational initiative is taking root. High school students here are embarking on a journey of learning how to grow their own produce using hydroponic technology. This unique classroom facility offers a hands-on learning experience that is transforming the way students perceive food and their connection to the community.

Unlock the Potential of Hydroponics for Food Sovereignty

Building a Mini-Farm

Over the past few years, these high schoolers have dedicated their efforts to building a mini-farm within an ordinary classroom. The sight is truly astonishing as vines suspend from the ceiling and foliage peeks out from tall white towers. It's a world apart from the typical classroom setup, with a humid atmosphere and warm yellow light bathing the plants.This hands-on experience has not only allowed students to gain practical knowledge but has also instilled a sense of pride and accomplishment. As Cody Pitka, a junior, shared, "It tastes better. I tended to the plants all summer long and continued to check in on them throughout the school year. It means a lot to me and being able to come here and help with the community and try to get other people to come in and help."

Overcoming Challenges

Angoon, located on Admiralty Island, faces its own set of challenges. With constant rain and a scarcity of sunshine in winter, growing fresh produce has always been a struggle. Most of the produce in the village is flown in or brought in on a barge, relying on traditional harvesting to fill freezers. However, climate change is disrupting land and water resources, making some subsistence foods less abundant or harder to find.But the hydroponic facility has emerged as a solution. It allows for the growth of vegetables year-round, including those that are usually hard to grow in Southeast Alaska like peppers, tomatoes, basil, and lettuce. The technology enables the plants to suck up nutrient-rich water and thrive under LED lamps.

Empowering the Community

For Lisa Kooshesh-Booth, a junior, growing food here is a way to provide for her community in a new way. "Because we know where it came from and how we grew it and how we processed it," she said. The fresh produce grown in the classroom is not only a source of nutrition but also a symbol of community self-sufficiency.Once the students have their share of the harvest, the rest goes to elders and anyone else in the community who wants some. It's a gesture that fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility. As Frank Coenraad, a counselor who helped develop the program three years ago, explained, "To have fresh vegetables is just so important for healthy living, and well-being and the kids are also feeling really good about themselves because they're growing it."

Looking to the Future

Currently, the small classroom-size facility may not be able to support the entire village. Startup costs for hydroponic farms can be high, especially in remote locations like Angoon. But Coenraad sees it as a first step toward a bigger goal of food sovereignty.Next semester, they plan to start a class solely dedicated to teaching students the basics of hydroponics and food sovereignty. This will allow more students to get involved and deepen their understanding of this sustainable farming method.In conclusion, the hydroponic facility at Angoon High School is a shining example of how education and innovation can lead to positive change. It's not just about growing food; it's about empowering the community and ensuring a sustainable future.