Thurston High School celebrates remodeling of its beloved greenhouse

Editorial Note: This story was first published by Ashley Mahlum and the Springfield Education Foundation (SEF).

After decades of use and serving as the stage for many hands-on learning experiences, Thurston High School’s (THS) Greenhouse has received a complete remodel this summer. Thanks to a family foundation donation of $26,553, the THS Greenhouse now has new two-tone paneling, ventilation fans, an ADA-compliant cement walkway and a perimeter gated fence.

Built in the 1970s, the THS Greenhouse has served as an outdoor classroom where students explored forestry, environmental science, agriculture, horticulture, and career technical education while developing practical skills they could carry into college, careers, and life.

However, over time, the greenhouse began showing its age and the structure needed meaningful solutions and improvements.

“We had a dedicated staff committed to using this space with students. Their leadership and belief in the importance of this hands-on lab on our campus was critical to bringing this project into existence. This is such an amazing investment in our school and our students and we are excited to see the quality of experience in this instructional space improve and the number of students able to utilize this space grow thanks to this investment,” said Principal Kimberlee Pelster. 

The project was made possible through the dedication of a passionate team of educators and administrators who shared a vision for restoring one of Thurston’s most valuable educational resources. Principal Kimberlee Pelster, Learning Specialist Annin Ramsing-Nissen, Forestry and Watershed Teacher Andrew Petersen, Assistant Principal Leslie Watson, Science Teacher Ryan Herlands, and Career & Technical Education Teacher on Special Assignment Stacey Tuers worked collaboratively along SEF staff to develop the proposal that secured this investment.

The renovations improve light transmission and heat retention (critical features for a quality greenhouse), the new cement walkways increase user access, and new indoor slabs more than double usable work space for years to come.

The renovation of the THS Greenhouse included not just new paneling and roofing, but also upgraded electrical systems, improved ventilation, year-round plumbing, an irrigation system, refreshed flooring, storage improvements, and extensive area cleanup.

The new THS Greenhouse creates a modern, functional space that can support instruction throughout the year and different horticultural programs that give students the opportunity to build practical skills.

“The Forestry and Natural Resources program is so grateful for this beautiful and highly improved greenhouse facility. Amongst other things, we envision being able to conduct forest regeneration labs where we can get our hands dirty testing ideas. For the first time, we’ll be able to have a controlled environment where we can alter variables, monitor processes, and observe results,” said CTE Forestry Teacher, Andrew Petersen. “I’m excited to be able to work with a local tree nursery who has already been an advocate and supporter of our program to explore what we might be able to have the kids work on in the years to come.”

Students in Thurston’s Natural Resources and Forestry CTE Pathway will investigate topics like tree regeneration, erosion prevention, wetland restoration, soil science, irrigation, plant nutrition, fruit tree grafting, and sustainable resource management. These authentic learning experiences prepare students for postsecondary education while building skills that are directly applicable to Oregon’s forestry and natural resource industries.

The greenhouse also plays an important role in supporting students receiving special education services. Students in the Vocational Skills and Life Skills programs gain valuable workplace experience by sowing seeds, transplanting seedlings, watering plants, composting, maintaining the greenhouse, and preparing plants for the annual community plant sale. Along the way, they develop job readiness, independence, teamwork, and confidence that will support their transition into future employment and adult life.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to revitalize the greenhouse and make it a place where all students can fully participate,” said Annin Ramsing-Nissen
Additional student groups also benefit from the greenhouse. Thurston’s Child Development Center grows flowers that preschool students proudly take home to their families, while the Environmental Club is planning future projects including a campus composting program and a native pollinator garden."

More than 30 SPS Facilities employees worked arduously during the summer on this project, led by District Foreman, John Hashberger and District Carpenter, Chris Smith. Cement pouring was led by Peter Skelton and gate installation by Lexi Beery. The entire remodel covered a span of four months and there are still a few exterior projects pending between now and spring term.

The THS Greenhouse official unveiling is scheduled for Friday, September 25, 2026.

Pictured above: SPS Master Carpenter and Foreman Chris Smith puts finishing touches on one of the doors of the fully remodeled THS Greenhouse. SPS Facilities crew moving earth inside the THS Greenhouse as part of general demolition phase.