(KNZA)-- A proposal to construct a greenhouse for the Sabetha FFA program advances.

Prairie Hills USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans says the Board of Education Monday evening heard a presentation  from Sabetha FFA Advisor Chris Bauerle for the construction of a 24-by-48 foot greenhouse on the north side of the Sabetha High School at an estimated cost of $43,200.

Bauerle said the greenhouse would provide cross-curricular advantages and benefits for the community.  He noted that many other area schools have functioning greenhouses on site.

Bauerle said he currently has pledges of $10,000 from the Sabetha FFA Alumni and another $10,000 from the Sabetha High School FFA Chapter for the project.  Bauerle requested permission to apply for a $25,000 grant from Monstano and several other smaller grants for the project. In addition, he asked the district to pay the utility costs for the greenhouse, estimated at $2,000 annually.

The Board gave Bauerle approval to proceed with the grant applications.