US (IA): NHS ag program growing, seeking new greenhouse

With a reported 300 percent enrolment increase since 2008, the agriculture program at Newton Senior High School is certainly growing. James Horn, who oversees the program, is expecting an enrolment of 120 students for the 2014-2015 school year, and with more students, more space is needed.

At Monday’s meeting of the Newton Community School Board of Education, Horn asked the board to consider purchasing a 24-by-48 foot greenhouse. His students have currently been sharing the NHS science department’s greenhouse, but he feels it’s time for his department to branch out.

The proposed greenhouse would be located in the upper parking lot near the agriculture classroom on the south end of the NHS campus.

“I would like to see this investigated more. With what’s going on with the program out there, this can only make it that much better,” said board member Bill Perrenoud.

Board member Donna Cook agreed with Perrenoud, but questioned Horn on potential costs for the greenhouse. Horn said bids had been submitted to several vendors, and Superintendent Bob Callaghan estimated the total cost to purchase and build the structure could range up to $100,000.

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