More Than a Classroom: Teaching Real-World Skills Through Aquaponics with Bert Johnson

About this episode

Bert Johnson discusses redefining education through aquaponics and hands-on learning.

In this episode of the Modern Farming Podcast, we sit down with Bert Johnson, Applied Engineering and Technology teacher at Melbourne High School in Brevard County, Florida, who is redefining what education can look like. Mr. Johnson brings engineering to life through aquaponics, creating a dynamic learning environment where students are not just memorizing information but actively building, growing, and solving real problems. His classroom blends agriculture, engineering, biology, and sustainability into one hands-on experience that prepares students for far more than a test. Rather than teaching to standardized exams, Mr. Johnson focuses on teaching students how to think, how to troubleshoot, and how to apply what they learn in real-world situations. From designing systems to growing healthy food, his students gain practical skills that will serve them for a lifetime. A firm believer in lifelong learning, Mr. Johnson encourages students to take advantage of the resources around them and to stay curious long after they leave the classroom. His philosophy is simple but powerful: “No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” This episode is a thoughtful…

People in this episode

Host: Green Jean Foundation

Guest: Bert Johnson

Topics covered

• education
• aquaponics
• hands-on learning
• engineering
• sustainability

Keywords

• aquaponics
• education
• engineering
• sustainability
• hands-on learning
• real-world skills
• Bert Johnson

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Melbourne High School

Places: Brevard County, Florida

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