Piloting STEM’s Hydroponic Lab at Pioneer Valley High School

Programs

May 7

Written By CaitlinPaulus

Pioneer Valley High School students prepping seedlings for the hydroponic system

Last week, SEEAG's STEM Career Pathways in Agriculture program launched its very first Hydroponics Lab at Pioneer Valley High School, and it was a huge success! Students were divided into five collaborative groups, each responsible for a critical part of building and launching a working NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) hydroponic system.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how it all came together:

Group 1: The System Builders

Tasked with choosing the ideal location and assembling the system, this group selected the school's greenhouse as the best site for optimal growth conditions. Following a step-by-step manual, they carefully constructed the NFT structure, laying the foundation for the rest of the project.

Group 2: The Water Engineers

This team handled the mechanics of the system — setting up the water pump and configuring a timer to control water flow. After considering different options, they decided on a continuous flow system, ensuring a steady stream of water would keep the plant roots consistently moist and fed.

Group 3: The Lab Chemists

With a focus on plant nutrition, Group 3 filled the sump tank with nutrient solution and carefully adjusted the pH to between 5.5–6.7 for optimal absorption. They also measured the temperature and learned how to check electrical conductivity, key elements for healthy hydroponic growth.

Group 4: The Seedling Specialists

This group took charge of preparing and planting the seedlings. After researching growing requirements, they mapped out plant placements using a planning chart. They carefully de-soiled seedlings of lettuce, kale, cabbage, and broccoli, nestled them in rockwool cubes, and placed them into the NFT channels.

Group 5: The Future Growers

Group 5 sowed seeds for the next planting cycle, placing them into rockwool cubes for germination. These seedlings will take several days to weeks to grow before being added to the system — ensuring continuous learning and production.

Once all the pieces were in place, each group shared their process, challenges, and reflections. By the end of the day, the students had successfully built and activated a real hydroponic system — and more importantly, gained hands-on experience in agricultural engineering, plant science, and teamwork.

The students were engaged, proud, and inspired — and we’re just getting started! Stay tuned as we continue bringing these innovative STEM labs to schools across both Santa Barbara & Ventura Counties!