SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR A hydroponic learning lab has been …

Special to The Vindicator | published: February 24, 2017

SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR A hydroponic learning lab has been added to the Youngstown State University After School Program for elementary and middle school students in Campbell Local Schools. The hydroponics lab was developed by Lettuce Do Good to grow plants using water and red and blue LED lights. Amy Klingensmith, YSU site coordinator, attended a training session for managing and maintaining the lab at the Youngstown Business Incubator. She teaches students how to plant seeds, regulate pH levels and nutrients, the importance of lights and how to harvest the plants. Students are growing kale, lettuce, radishes, basil and chard. The first harvest is expected in six to eight weeks. The YSU After School Program has 40 first through fifth-grade students, five Campbell teachers and three YSU student activity leaders. Above, from left, are Klingensmith, Ella Polen, Deborah Fralin and Ariana Pasqual. Fourth- and fifth-grade students, below, are Jordan Gore, Diamond Sims, Joanys Bazquez, Natalie Cruz and Teyon Harris.