At Chancellor High School in Fredericksburg, Virginia, agriculture education is growing in a whole new way, and it’s powered by hydroponics.
Under the guidance of Erin Hannah, AgriScience Teacher & FFA Advisor, students in the Career & Technical Education (CTE) program are redefining hands-on learning by using sustainable, soil-free technology to grow fresh produce year-round.
A Living Classroom that Feeds the Community
With their classroom Flex Farm, students grow leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables using up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods. From planting and nutrient monitoring to harvesting and packaging, they manage every step of the process while gaining practical experience in agribusiness, environmental science, and leadership.
What makes Chancellor High’s program especially powerful is its mission-driven focus on food access. All produce grown in the program is shared within the school community and donated to a local food bank, supporting families who rely on resources like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and school-based food access initiatives.
Even more impressive, the students have set the task of figuring out how to maximize their impact with these community donations. They are experimenting with different plant varieties and planting schedules to understand how they can best serve their community partner in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.
Sustainability Meets Innovation Meets Community Impact
As the landscape of food uncertainty continues to evolve, programs like this offer a roadmap for schools nationwide looking to blend STEM education, sustainability, and social impact in meaningful ways.
At Fork Farms, we’re proud to partner with schools like Chancellor High School that are proving how accessible, sustainable technology can be used to turn lessons in the classroom into impact in the community.
Learn more about how your school or organization can join this movement at ForkFarms.com.
