From Seed to STEM: Hydroponics in the Classroom

Looking for a hands-on way to spark curiosity about science and sustainability? This poster presentation shows educators, STEM coordinators and curriculum leaders how hydroponics can support CTE, AgTech, science, math, literacy and problem-solving in any classroom, regardless of space or budget. Through shared classroom examples, you will learn about accessible tools such as indoor farmstands, desktop hydroponic units, grow lights and simple seed-starting materials, plus digital tools for tracking plant growth and analyzing data. Discover how to start small and scale up, manage maintenance, assign student roles and sustain a program over time. You will also explore interdisciplinary lesson ideas that combine scientific inquiry, data collection and measurement with reading, writing and reflection through journals, research and student storytelling. You will leave with adaptable lesson frameworks connected to STEM and literacy standards and a toolkit of recommended equipment, digital supports and funding opportunities to help students grow both plants and knowledge.