As it currently stands the greenhouse is in the way of the proposed student commons and will be torn down; however, science students can look forward to a new and improved one.
When Science Teacher, David Krodel, heard that his AP Environmental Science and Dual Credit Horticulture classes would lose access to hands-on learning, he worked with the administration to plan a new space.
Mitch Berenson, East’s Assistant Principal of Operations, said, “The people who use the space should be able to provide insight on the new construction.” With that being the case Mr. Krodel has had much influence on the design choices and location for the new greenhouse.
According to Krodel, “The current structure has several limitations” and there was a large need for changes. “[Some] of which include limited lighting and limited space for storing supplies.”
The current design of Glenbard East’s greenhouse is small and octagonal. Mr. Krodel noted, “It’s awkward to move around and have a large number of students inside to teach.” The new Greenhouse is planned to address all these issues.
There will be multiple differences between the old and the new greenhouse. With the new greenhouse, more space will be allocated to allow for flexible movement for students and teachers as well as more storage space for tools and equipment. This will allow for more experiential teaching and learning opportunities.
The new greenhouse will also address structural problems. “There will be less water consumption in its systems, “ Krodel said. “ It will keep pests out and will have air quality improvements as well.”
Also, Mr. Krodel stated that “students absolutely will have more hands-on opportunities.” He added, “We owe the community and the administration to use the funds wisely in an educational way.”
The administration and Mr. Krodel have collaboratively scouted out two possible locations for the new greenhouse.
Mr. Krodel said, “When you consider a greenhouse and its design in a school setting you have to consider its feasibility not just from plant production but for education as well.”
After considering options for placement of the new greenhouse, they have decided to move it 10-20 feet away from its current location more towards Wilson Avenue. This new location will allow it to receive more sunlight.
Berenson said, “We made it so students don’t have to travel far to reach the greenhouse from their science classes. Any other location and it wouldn’t work within a given class period.”
Work on the planned greenhouse will begin during the summer break of 2026 and will expand until around January 2027. As with all of the construction plans, necessary changes are possible, Berenson said.
Plans for remodeling Glenbard East were approved by local voters in an April 2024 referendum vote. This remodel will include additional and modernized learning spaces, and general beautification, among other things.
