The greenhouse was buzzing this past week with the curious students from Patrick J. Kennedy Elementary School!
These bright and eager students got their hands dirty planting tomatoes, digging through soil, and exploring the vibrant world beneath their feet. They learned about the parts of a plant, how they grow, and even that plants can make their own sugar (a fact that sparked more than a few wide-eyed reactions. After all, who wouldn’t want to make their own sweets?).
The real adventure began at the soil barrel. As soon as students learned that soil, unlike dirt, is alive, the digging kicked into high gear. Tiny critters wriggled into view, and per Eastie Farm tradition, every bug got a name. Among the most beloved of the day: Pablo and John Cena, two champion decomposers who stole the show.
From there, we turned our attention to the greenhouse. Students explored how our geothermal system uses underground heat and clever insulation (like a retractable thermal blanket) to keep temperatures just right for our plants year-round, all while producing zero carbon emissions.
When one student asked, “In winter, what are you going to do with the plants?” we had the chance to share a special story.
Years ago, Eastie Farm’s greenhouse was a favorite gathering spot for local youth in the warmer months. They would sit on clay pots, surrounded by greenery, and dream of growing food all year round. But when winter came, those dreams were put on hold. Until the youth spoke up. They didn’t just wish for change—they called for it. They wanted to keep growing, learning, and connecting to nature every month of the year. And that’s how the geothermal greenhouse came to life: built by the community, for the community, and inspired by young people who believed food, soil, and care shouldn’t be seasonal.
So to see the greenhouse once again filled with laughter, questions, and muddy hands from Patrick J. Kennedy students? That’s what it’s all about.
A huge thank you to the incredible students and educators who visited us. We are so glad the greenhouse is alive in every sense of the word.
