The greenhouse proposed to be built on the west wing of Lafayette has been a progressing idea. The goal for those involved, with Principal John Shaughnessy leading the project, is to begin building in spring of 2015 and have it completed in the fall of 2015.

“I think it provides students with an authentic way of learning the sciences. You can read a lot in the book, but when you grow the plants there are a lot of things you can work into a project like that, ” Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Rockwood School District Tim Rooney said.

Rooney’s responsibilities have been to work with Shaughnessy  from a primarily financial role.

“I work with him on source of funds and role in maintenance. I oversee maintenance as well as working with the architect,” Rooney said.

The maintenance staff of the district maintains Rockwood’s new facilities and when it pursues building new ones.

The greenhouse project has progressed, with numerous plans receiving approval.

“Plans for the greenhouse are completed, discussions with the city of Wildwood have been completed, a timeline has been put together of bidding it out and starting dates and ending dates have been chosen. The only thing we’re waiting for is completion of funding. Once we have our funds, I will ask the Board of Education to approve the greenhouse,” Shaughnessy said.

All funding has been provided through the Student Activity Funds at Lafayette and Shaughnessy is currently looking for private donations. Anyone looking to donate to the greenhouse should contact him.