Tates Creek Middle School in Lexington, Kentucky is enhancing its agricultural education program by constructing a new greenhouse. The facility’s groundbreaking ceremony was held on Dec. 3. This initiative is a collaboration between Kentucky State University and Fayette County Public Schools. It aims to create an innovative outdoor classroom that will serve both students and the local community.
The event celebrated the collective efforts of community partners dedicated to improving educational opportunities in agriculture. “This collaboration was truly led by the community, for the community, to enhance learning opportunities to students,” stated Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, President of KSU. He acknowledged the vital contributions of the Student Ag Ambassadors at Tates Creek Middle School, who helped shape the vision for this new educational space.
The greenhouse, designed not only for lectures but also for practical, hands-on training, will allow students to engage with modern agricultural practices directly. Attendees at the ceremony learned that students will explore essential topics such as hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics. These innovative methods are becoming increasingly important in sustainable food production.
The project was made possible through a grant from Farm Credit Mid-America, which recognizes the need for a facility that combines classroom learning with real-world agricultural experiences. Students will receive comprehensive training covering everything from safe food handling post-harvest to the financial aspects of running a farm.
Dr. Demetrus Liggins, Superintendent of FCPS, emphasized the significance of teaching agricultural sustainability. “Teaching children the importance of agricultural sustainability is essential in today’s marketplace, and FCPS is committed to keeping our scholars on the leading edge of understanding the local, national, and global economic impact of this basic yet essential need,” he noted. “We look forward to this partnership with KSU and how it will help us guide learning and develop independence for our students into the future.”