St. Joseph Hospital is celebrating two local school nurses, Jackie McMahon and Cinzia Klinger-Bibb, who recently earned third place nationwide in the Voya Unsung Heroes competition—a program that recognizes innovative educators and classroom projects across the country.
Their award-winning initiative, "Hawks Harvest: Advancing Hydroponic Education at Thornton's Ferry Elementary School," has introduced hands-on hydroponic learning to students through several Flex Farm hydroponic gardening systems—one of which was donated by St. Joseph Hospital. This sustainable program enables students to grow fresh produce inside the school while learning meaningful lessons about nutrition, science, and environmental stewardship.
© St. Joseph Hospital
Over the past year, the hydroponic farms have become part of the school's culture—featured in "Try It Tuesdays," "The Great Tomato Giveaway," and even led by the school's Gardening Club, a group of enthusiastic third-graders.
As part of their national recognition, Thornton's Ferry Elementary School received a $7,000 award from Voya, making it the first school in New England to place in the top three of this competition.
St. Joseph Hospital remains proud to support programs like Hawks Harvest that inspire healthy habits, curiosity, and community connection throughout local schools.
Source: St. Joseph Hospital
