Thornton Academy Postscripts Alumni Magazine Spring 2013 | Page 18

M id d le Sch o o l
Backman ‘43 is pictured (right) with a hydroponics project - a
“Mini Farm” that he supported at Salve Regina University. The
Dedham, MA-based alum and 1811 Society member has made
a special donation to Thornton Academy’s middle school for
this project. Ryan Hersey teaches his science class (above).

Irving Backman ’43 and Hydroponics
With the support of Irving Backman ‘43 and science teacher Ryan Hersey, TAMS students are joining a centurieslong tradition of experimenting with soilless cultivation, or the method of growing plants without soil. Instead,
plants are grown with their roots immersed in nutrient-enriched water. One of Backman’s passions is getting young
students involved in the science of growing foods, particularly if they can be grown without the use of pesticides or
other toxic or preservative chemicals, and even indoors in small areas.
Backman proposed bringing a hydroponics “Mini Farm” project and curriculum to TAMS. Backman said, “The
“Farm to School” programs that have been adopted by over 40 states essentially have been unsuccessful
because the growing and harvesting usually take place during vacation periods and not during the traditional
school year.” The goal is to integrate the science of agriculture with the wellness goal of having students bring
home to their own dinner table a vegetable crop