Fresh. Local. Grown Right Here at School.
Welcome to the Pioneer Cafe Hydroponic Farm, located inside the Middle School and High School cafeteria — where innovation meets nutrition! Our Food Services team has launched an exciting new initiative to bring ultra-fresh, locally grown produce directly to our school meals, grown just steps away from where students learn.
What Is Hydroponic Farming?
Hydroponic farming is a sustainable method of growing plants without soil. Instead, plants grow in nutrient-rich water inside a climate-controlled indoor system. This means we can grow healthy greens and herbs year-round, regardless of the weather, while using up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods.
Farm to Tray: Freshness You Can Taste
Our hydroponic systems are currently producing:
-
Crisp, vibrant lettuces for salads and sandwiches
-
Flavorful herbs like basil, cilantro, and dill to enhance our recipes
Because the produce travels only a few steps from our farms to the cafeteria, students enjoy food that is fresher, tastier, and packed with nutrients.
Teaching Healthy Habits and STEM Skills
The Pioneer Cafe Hydroponic Farm isn’t just about food — it’s about education. Our farm provides hands-on learning opportunities for students to:
-
Understand where food comes from
-
Learn about sustainability, nutrition, and healthy eating
We believe that nourishing minds starts with nourishing bodies — and this farm helps us do both.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Our hydroponic farm reflects our commitment to building a more sustainable and resilient school food system. By growing produce on-site, we:
-
Reduce food miles and transportation emissions
-
Cut down on packaging waste
-
Provide a dependable local supply of fresh greens
This initiative supports our mission to serve meals that are better for our students and better for the planet.