Fork Farms Partner Highlight: Spring Branch ISD

At Fork Farms, we believe that the future of food lies in the hands of innovative leaders who prioritize sustainability, education, and community health. That’s why we’re excited to shine a spotlight on our partner, Spring Branch ISD, and the amazing progress they’re making with their Hydroponic School Produce Program, set to launch in January 2025!

SBISD completed its first hydroponic harvest with great success, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they are achieving. 

Here’s what Maggie Kennedy, SBISD’s Assistant Director of School Nutrition, shared:

“We’re thrilled to share that our hydroponic harvest this weekend was a huge success! 🍃 We’ve just harvested fresh, vibrant lettuce and basil from our school’s hydroponic farm and turned them into delicious, nutritious salads. 🥗 These salads are heading straight to our principals to showcase the benefits of integrating nutrition education into their campuses."

“Over the past few weeks, we have been working diligently to set up and monitor our hydroponic systems. This hands-on experience has not only been a lesson in sustainability but also an opportunity to dive deep into how to best offer nutrition education to the students of SBISD.”

This is a great example of how hydroponic farming is transforming school nutrition programs by growing fresh, local produce right on campus! By turning their harvest into nutritious salads, SBISD is not only promoting healthy eating but also providing a powerful demonstration of how sustainable agriculture can directly benefit the school community.

At Fork Farms, we love seeing how hydroponic growing systems—like our very own Flex Farms—are not only producing healthy, fresh food but also fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in the students who are learning to grow it. SBISD is paving the way for what’s possible when schools prioritize both nutrition and sustainability education.

What's Happening at SBISD:

• System Setup: The hydroponic systems have been successfully integrated into SBISD’s daily operations, setting the stage for optimal growth.
• Plant Growth: The lettuce and basil are flourishing, showcasing the efficiency and sustainability of hydroponic farming.
• Educational Impact: Students will be involved in every step of the process, from planting to harvest, gaining valuable lessons in plant biology, sustainability, and healthy eating.

This is just the beginning for SBISD’s hydroponic program, and we couldn’t be more proud to call them a partner in their impactful initiative. As their program begins, the students will have access to fresh, nutritious produce—directly grown in their own schools.

Why This Matters

By integrating hydroponics into their schools, SBISD is empowering students to learn about sustainable food production while directly contributing to their own health and well-being. It’s hands-on education with real-world benefits, and it’s inspiring the next generation of leaders who will prioritize sustainable living and community health.

By partnering with forward-thinking districts like SBISD, we’re not just helping schools grow food; we’re helping them grow knowledge. Together, we’re cultivating a healthier, more sustainable future for our planet, one harvest at a time.

Follow along with Fork Farms and SBISD, as they continue to roll out their program leading up to its launch in January 2025. We’re excited to see how their students grow—both in knowledge and fresh produce! 

Images provided by Maggie Kennedy.