District to Construct Greenhouse

Collingswood school officials hope to receive corporate support for a new high school greenhouse project.

Collingswood's Board of Education approved at its last meeting the submission of a $9,000 grant application to Lowe's Home Improvement Center.

If awarded the grant, Superintendent Scott A. Oswald said funds would be used to construct a greenhouse at Collingswood High School.

"The greenhouse idea is grounded in our special education department, but it will involve many students—both with and without special needs," said Oswald of the project. "The curricular end is being developed by our supervisor of special services, Dr. Joanne Plescia, while the construction is being handled by our director of facilities, Al Hird."

Plescia said the district should find out whether they'll see a grant in a week or two.

"The greenhouse is being constructed this summer and will be functioning in time for school in September," Plescia explained. "We have applied for a grant, but are not certain at this time if Lowe's will be awarding us or not."

When complete, the greenhouse project will allow students to grow their own produce that they can sell, as well as contribute to the school's lunch program.

The district plans to grow herbs and some vegetables in the greenhouse, if awarded the Lowe's grant.

"The purpose (of students handling greenhouse responsibility) is to teach them job skills, vocations, work skills, community responsibility and teamwork," said Plescia. "We are very excited about this venture."

Check back with Collingswood Patch for updates about whether the district is awarded a greenhouse grant.