The Aliquippa School District is seeking funding to partner with GetBlok Farms to add a hydroponic farm on the grounds of the Elementary School. GetBlok Farms is a minority and woman-owned business that delivers vertical hydroponic farming in an engineered shipping container format.  Based in Aliquippa, GetBlok provides hyper-local, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable hydroponic produce year-round.  Their mission is to introduce high-quality and reliable sources of nutrition for local communities in and around Western Pennsylvania.  Our district will support the education and gardening component of this project by providing the location for a farm unit and hiring a full-time coordinator to work with GetBlok Farms staff, our Food Service Director, and the Maintenance Director.  Additionally,  this new position will assist to identify and source locally grown foods to feature in school meals in the Elementary and Junior Senior High.  Activities done on the "farm" will enhance the existing 5th-grade hydroponic unit of study.  Elementary students will assist in planning, planting, harvesting, and tasting various seeds/produce.  Students will also learn about the art of growing food, and the hydroponic process, and share experiences with family and community members.

GetBlok Farms will aid in marketing, packaging, and distributing produce that is over the amount needed for the school meals. Community events including farmer's markets, food sampling events, nutrition lessons, and volunteer opportunities will be available to the community of Aliquippa outside of the school district.