Empowering Students Through Innovative Container Farming in Floyd County

The Floyd County School of Innovation (FCSI) in Martin, Kentucky, is transforming education through its cutting-edge approach to career and technical education (CTE). In addition to computer science, engineering, and healthcare, FCSI recently introduced agriculture education, utilizing a container farm to provide students with valuable lessons in agriculture, entrepreneurship, leadership, and responsibility.

The decision to invest in a container farm was driven by the desire to expand agricultural access and opportunities in the community. The container farm, provided by Freight Farms, offers a centralized and versatile environment for growing plants. Situated on the FCSI campus, this collaborative effort between Floyd County schools and Freight Farms is revolutionizing agriculture technology across landscapes, with their container farms now present in all 50 states and 40 countries.

Supported by federal funding from the Kentucky Department of Education's Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief program, the container farm has become a catalyst for CTE engagement, fostering a sense of belonging among students. The agriculture curriculum aligns with the National FFA Association, allowing students to participate in career and technical student organizations.

Under the guidance of agriculture teacher Justin Smith, students gain hands-on experience in the container farm. Using a vertical hydroponic system, students plant seeds, monitor plant growth, and learn about nutrient levels and pH balance. Over eight weeks, they harvest and package the produce, selling lettuce to local businesses, hospitals, and their own school cafeteria. The container farm not only imparts agricultural knowledge but also instills valuable business and entrepreneurial skills.

The container farm project taps into the existing knowledge and experiences of students in eastern Kentucky, empowering them to lead the way in agricultural innovation. With passionate students and dedicated educators like Justin Smith, the future of agriculture in Floyd County looks incredibly promising, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for the region.

Photo Credit: istock-AzmanJaka