Nature Program

There are all sorts of ways a student learns: reading, solving problems, observing, listening, watching, and hands-on discovery. Having access to a garden draws on all these learning styles. It’s not just about beautiful flowers or fresh produce; it’s about the challenges and  discoveries made getting the dirt ready to plant the seeds, to grow the plants, to get the flowers or produce to bloom, and to keep the pests away without contaminating the watershed!

Working in the garden involves not only fresh air and exercise but also math and science skills while measuring and testing the pH balance of a plot for amendment purposes. Computer skills enable students to research the types of plants available, their soil and weather needs and when they will produce. Using their art, math, design skills and group cooperation, they are able to layout the garden creatively to get the most use of their space. While planting, students are actively delving into life sciences, discovering soil differences and learning which bugs are pests and which are  helpers. They discover bugs in various stages of growth and learn the difference between a weed and a flower or vegetable. Composting brings a whole new appreciation of ecology: where to  throw your table scraps and why. Journaling about the soil, weather, planting times, and growth patterns is a great way to fine-tune writing skills. 

Our gardens are changing everyday. Come and visit the garden - stop by, smell the roses, and wave to the chickens!