| In the San Bernardino City Unified School District, the Growing Hope Program at San Andreas High School is an Advanced Technology Farming Pathway—a rare opportunity at an alternative education school. Through a process called hydroponics, students of all capabilities grow plants without soil and under artificial or filtered natural light.
Phase 1 transformed a locker room into an interactive classroom featuring hydroponic growing systems. Installing efficient HVAC units controlled by an energy management system created a zoned heating, cooling, and ventilation system that maintains proper temperature and humidity for plants along with comfort for students. All interior architectural finishes are easily washable and built to handle higher humidity. Phase 2 added a multipurpose garden and greenhouse with planting areas, walk-in cooler, storage, and produce prep areas.
Growing Hope improves students’ lives with hands-on gardening, vocational skills, and education about healthy food. |
