The Holmdel Foundation for Educational Excellence (HFEE) marked the completion of another innovative project for the Holmdel Township School District with the ribbon-cutting of a new Aquaponics Learning Lab at Holmdel High School on Tuesday, February 10.
Designed to inspire hands-on learning, innovation, and meaningful community engagement, the Aquaponics Learning Lab is the result of months of collaboration between the Foundation, district leadership, and educators. The project brought together Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cascone, Kâ12 Supervisor of Science, Engineering, and Technology Alicia Killean, and dedicated district staff to create a space where sustainability and science intersect in a real-world learning environment.
To bring the vision to life, the district partnered with INTAG Systems, a Pennsylvania-based leader in sustainable agriculture systems. Mrs. Killean visited aquaponics sites in Pennsylvania and worked closely with Dr. Jesse Maine, Education Program Manager at INTAG Systems, to design a lab specifically tailored to Holmdel students. The district's Buildings and Grounds Department also played a key role, carefully preparing the space to support both hydroponics and aquaculture systems.
Dr. Maine shared his enthusiasm for the project, saying, "We are incredibly proud to see this one-of-a-kind aquaponics learning lab come to life here in Holmdel. What began as a bold vision is now a living system where students will grow food, deepen their scientific understanding, and give back to the community through local food donations. This space represents what's possible when innovation, philanthropy, and education come together with purpose."
