By

Michelle Adler,   Dawes Middle School

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Topics:

Access to Healthy Foods,  Student Leadership

At Dawes, we have started a raised bed garden. We have several plots. One class decided to take it upon themselves to help out more with the garden. They helped start seedlings and then transplanted them when they were large enough. They decided to sell the extra seedlings at the end of the school year to make some money for the school. Students participating in the summer program will help care for the garden when school is not in session.

How did students and adults work together as a team?

Students and teachers decided together that they wanted to work on improving the garden. The class decided it would be their community service project to help the school. Teachers took time to work with the students to help teach them how to care for the plants and garden.

What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

It was challenging getting the seedlings started. It took three attempts before we actually had seedlings that survived. Several groups of students and teachers had to help with getting them started.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

Students were excited about the opportunity to have a garden with fresh food to eat and share with others. Students shared care and concern for the plants.