Newark Public Schools Superintendent León and Principal Karisa Neis-Lopez welcomed David Rosenberg, co-founder of Inspired Growing, to Newark Vocational High School today to celebrate the first harvest of produce grown with Inspired Growing aeroponic farms.
The event featured students from Newark Vocational High School's acclaimed Culinary Arts Academy harvesting greens grown onsite, preparing gourmet dishes under the guidance of professional chefs, and serving their creations to students, school officials, and district leaders.
© Newark Board of EducationCulinary Arts students move a "crop" of red mustard greens for harvesting at Newark Vocational High School.
"Our Culinary Arts students are proving every day that great learning, like great cooking, starts with great ingredients," said Superintendent León. "With the help of Inspired Growing, our students are learning to cultivate and cook with fresh produce grown right in their own high school. Together, we're not just growing food, we're growing opportunity."
Superintendent León recognized David Rosenberg, Co-Founder of Inspired Growing, along with his team members Ryan Jendrek, Josh McFerren, and James Castillo, for their ongoing partnership.
© Newark Board of EducationChef Mark Speight, Culinary Arts Teacher, works with students harvesting microgreens grown in the Inspired Growing aeroponic farms at Newark Vocational High School.
"Today's unique farm-to-table experience our students had at Newark Vocational High School is exactly what education should look like in the 21st century," said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. "From seed to harvest to the plate, our students are learning how science, sustainability, and creativity come together to build a healthier community."
Inspired Growing's indoor aeroponic farms now operate in 13 Newark Public Schools, helping students learn the science and practice of sustainable agriculture while improving access to fresh produce across the district. Rosenberg praised the district for connecting sustainability and career preparation.
© Newark Board of EducationCulinary Arts students use the harvested microgreens in plating a ceviche basket and ribeye nest at Newark Vocational High School.
"We greatly appreciate Newark Public Schools' teachers and administrators for their progressivism in education," said Rosenberg. "Students are gaining hands-on experience in growing and preparing food, while also learning about nutrition, technology, and entrepreneurship. This partnership demonstrates what's possible when innovation and education work hand in hand."
Source: Newark Board of Education
