Highlands High School could be 'Going Green' with proposed greenhouse project

By this time next year, Highlands High School students could be getting their hands dirty in the name of sustainable learning.

Senior Eli Majocha proposed to the school board on Monday plans for a greenhouse to be constructed on the Pacific Avenue campus, saying the initiative would help tackle health and poverty issues in the district.

“ ‘Getting hands on’ is what we want, right?” Majocha asked. “This would benefit our youths, our families and make us a healthier place.”

No taxpayer money would be spent, he said.

The project, “Highlands Going Green,” is expected to cost $36,000, but much of that would be defrayed through in-kind donations and private support, Assistant Superintendent Cathleen Cubelic said.

The total cost includes site excavation, utility connection and the glass enclosure, among other necessities.

Cubelic said many of the high school teachers are excited about the potential that the greenhouse would provide for project-based learning.

She plans to apply for a $7,500 Department of Agriculture grant if the project is approved by the board on Monday.

Science teacher Matt Sespico outlined the educational benefits to students across all grade levels.

He’s been trying to spearhead the project for several years and said the energy level from teachers is palpable.

Students would be exposed to a variety of career fields, including food processor, biochemist, agriculture economist and plant scientist, he said.

“There’s a need for sustainable lessons,” he said. “It doesn’t get more authentic than helping people grow their own food.”

As proposed, ground preparation would happen in spring as soon as the weather breaks. A groundbreaking would be followed by summer construction.

By fall 2023, Majocha said, the greenhouse could be incorporated into the district curriculum.

“We want to show our youths where food comes from,” he said. “The greenhouse could be used across several disciplines. Spanish classes, for example, could plant ethnic foods and learn how people use different plants in cooking.”

State Sen. Lindsey Williams spoke to the board during its meeting via Zoom.

“If this is approved, I will be supporting your grant application, and I’m optimistic that we can get some state funding for this project,” Williams said.

Majocha cited a census.gov report listing a 10.5% poverty rate in Allegheny County. The greenhouse, he said, would help provide fruits, vegetables and other fresh ingredients to support district families in need.

Majocha said students would get a starter seed kit to help grow an at-home garden, and greenhouse maintenance could provide students with volunteer hours.

“We got the people and the support,” Majocha said. “We just need (board approval).”