Highlands Intermediate School

The goal of the Highlands' Aquaponics Garden is to engage 100% of the student population in activities that address sustainable farming systems so as to lessen Hawaii's 90% dependency on imported foods and to help diversify Hawaii's economy. Students will be involved in activities that address community health issues, such as senior nutrition, through service learning projects. Students create hydroponic systems for seniors to grow tomatoes, lettuce, green onions, and other easy-growing vegetables. Funds from this grant will enable teachers and students to purchase seeds, coconut husks, and supplies to start the seedlings; supplies to create posters and brochures for their nutrition awareness campaign; supplies to promote hygiene among the students in the Aquanponics Garden, such as soap and paper; and supplies for the service learning projects, such as buckets and hoses. Much of what is grown in the Aquaponics Garden, such as corn and herbs, are shared with the local Food Bank.