Can you come and teach it for us?
In a limited number of Boston schools each term, yes, that's our in-school program, and you can apply. Everywhere else, and for most Boston schools, teachers run the grow lab themselves. That's what it's designed for, and we support you through your first cycle.
What does the lesson planner do?
It's a free online tool that generates ready-to-teach lesson plans for your exact grade and subject. You pick a topic, it builds the lesson, objectives, activities, and printable student materials, all tied to what students are growing that week. No prep from scratch.
Do I have to use the lesson planner, or can I use my own lessons?
Either. Plenty of teachers weave the grow lab into science, math or health lessons they already teach. The planner is there when you want a lesson written for you, but it's never required.
Are the lessons aligned to standards?
Yes. Every activity is mapped to the current Massachusetts frameworks, science, math, ELA/literacy, health, and SEL, and each lesson the planner generates prints with its standard codes, so it's ready for your curriculum team or an administrator to review.
What grades is it for?
It's built for grades 5-8, and the lessons adapt down to grades 2-3. The planner tailors the reading level and activities to the grade you choose.
How much class time does it take?
Each week has one fixed block of 15-20 minutes for the main planting or harvest activity. Beyond that, you add activities at will, we've pre-loaded a set for you, and you can shift the focus of the whole program between balanced, nutrition, science or SEL.
What do students actually do each week?
Students plant different varieties in weeks one, two and three that are all ready to harvest together in week four. Over those weeks they observe, measure and record growth, and take part in the other activities you've selected. In the final week they harvest, taste and reflect on what they grew.
Is it messy?
It's a contained tray system, so mess stays minimal and cleanup is quick, tidy enough for any classroom.
What does it need to run: water, sunlight, power?
Just a standard power outlet for the grow lights. No sunlight or window needed, and watering is a small amount every day or two. It fits on a rolling rack with a tiny footprint.
What about allergies or food safety?
Students grow microgreens, cabbage, radish, pea and similar. We'll flag anything to check with your class, and tasting is always optional for any student.
What if I've never grown anything?
You don't need to. Setup is done for you, daily care is a couple of minutes, and the lessons are written and free.
How do I pay for it?
Most teachers never pay out of pocket, sponsors, grants, PTOs and DonorsChoose. We give you the template for each.
Do you deliver and set it up?
Yes. Within our Boston service area we deliver, assemble and set the grow lab up in your classroom in person, and check in during your first cycle.
Can I use it again next year?
Absolutely. The rack and lights are reusable. A full re-up of seed and growing medium for another 84 students is just $165, or you can source your own locally and we'll tell you what to buy.