Hillsborough Education Foundation School and Classroom Enrichment Grants
Thank you to the following investor for funding this grant.
Theresa Pietruszka - $779.94
To engage 150 elementary students in hands-on learning by providing soil and seeds for our hydroponics garden, with the objective of each student successfully growing and maintaining at least one plant over the course of the school year. The project aims to enhance students’ understanding of plant life cycles and biology, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture, as evidenced by a 20% increase in students’ knowledge of these topics, measured through pre- and post-participation assessments.
Other -
The hydroponics garden project at Broward Elementary is designed to provide elementary students with a hands-on learning experience that integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) principles. Through this project, students will engage in the complete lifecycle of plant growth—from seed germination to harvesting—using a soil-less hydroponic system. This method will allow students to explore the science of plant biology, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture, while also fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Students will work collaboratively in small groups, guided by their teachers, to set up and maintain the hydroponic garden. They will monitor plant growth, document changes, and adjust variables such as nutrient levels, light exposure, and water pH to optimize plant health. The project will culminate in a harvest, where students will not only observe the results of their work but also explore nutritional concepts by discussing the health benefits of the plants they’ve grown.
The hydroponics garden project aligns with the science curriculum standards by providing a practical application of plant biology, ecosystems, and environmental science concepts. Additionally, it integrates math through measurements and data analysis, technology through the use of sensors and monitoring equipment, and engineering through the design and maintenance of the hydroponic system.
Students will benefit academically by applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world context, which enhances retention and understanding. The project also supports the development of important academic skills, such as observation, recording data, making predictions, and drawing conclusions.
This project is expected to improve student achievement by fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and promoting engagement in STEM subjects. The hands-on nature of the project will cater to diverse learning styles, allowing students who may struggle with traditional methods of instruction to excel in a more interactive environment.
Additionally, the project provides educational enrichment by introducing students to concepts of sustainability and environmental stewardship. It encourages a sense of responsibility and ownership as students care for their plants, leading to increased confidence and interest in science and the environment. Ultimately, this project aims to inspire a lifelong curiosity and passion for learning, particularly in the fields of science and technology.
1. Increased STEM Engagement and Knowledge:
Outcome: By the end of the academic year, 85% of participating students will demonstrate a measurable increase in STEM-related knowledge, as evidenced by pre- and post-program assessments.
Measurement: We will administer a STEM knowledge assessment to a sample of students before the program begins and after it concludes. We anticipate an average increase of 20% in test scores, reflecting enhanced understanding of hydroponics, plant biology, and sustainability concepts.
2. Improved Inquiry-Based Learning Skills:
Outcome: 75% of students will show improvement in inquiry-based learning skills, such as formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data.
Measurement: Progress will be tracked through hands-on project evaluations and reflective journals, with a rubric assessing students’ ability to engage in scientific inquiry. We expect a 25% improvement in these skills, as measured by a rubric-based evaluation at the start and end of the program.
3. Enhanced Environmental Awareness and Responsibility:
Outcome: 80% of students will exhibit increased environmental awareness and responsibility, particularly in relation to sustainable food production and resource management.
Measurement: This outcome will be measured through student surveys administered before and after the program, gauging changes in attitudes and behaviors toward environmental stewardship. We anticipate at least a 30% increase in positive responses related to environmental responsibility.
4. Academic Improvement in Science:
Outcome: Students involved in the hydroponics project will achieve a 10% improvement in their overall science grades by the end of the school year.
Measurement: We will compare students' science grades from the first quarter with their grades at the end of the school year, focusing on those who actively participate in the hydroponics garden.
Items (Budget)
1. Nutrient Solution
Description: Medias
Vendor: Hydro Harvest Farms
Website: http://www.hydroharvestfarms.com
Total Cost: $240.00
2. pH Control Kit
Description: pH Control Kit for Hydroponics – 5 kits @ $18.99/ea
Vendor: Amazon
Website: pH Control Kit for Hydroponics
Total Cost: $94.95
3. Seed Starter Kits
Description: Organic Seed Starter Kit @ $24.99/ea
Vendor: Amazon
Website: Organic Seed Starter Kit
Total Cost: $24.99
4. Plant Nutrients
Description: Nutrients-4 combination bags @$29.90
Vendor: Hydro Harvest Farms
Website: http://www.hydroharvestfarms.com
Total Cost: $120.00
5. Hydro Harvest Farms Field Trip
Vendor: Hydro Harvest Farms
Website: http://www.hydroharvestfarms.com
Total $200.00
6. Bus/Transportation
Hillsborough County Schools
Total $100.00
Complete Total $779.94
| # | Item Description | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nutrient Solution | $240.00 |
| 2 | pH Control Kits | $94.95 |
| 3 | Seed Starter Kits | $24.99 |
| 4 | Plant Nutrients | $120.00 |
| 5 | Hydroponics Fiield Trip | $200.00 |
| 6 | Bus | $100.00 |
| Total: | $779.94 |
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