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Dear Friends and Family,
In the Fall of 2008, a small grant became available from the Polk County Health Department to schools in the county that showed interest in incorporating healthy choices into their district. From this, the vision of a school garden transpired. In February, 2009, district teachers, students and community members came together to brainstorm what this garden project could become. With much talent, perseverance and collaborated team work, our vision became a reality. Following are some brief highlights of our journey:
* St. Croix Falls FFA/carpentry classes, along with the city engineer and a master gardener, created the 60’X70’ garden structure located in the southwest corner of the elementary school property.
* Raised cedar beds were constructed and filled with composted, organic soil thanks to the help of the middle/high school students during Community Work Day.
* FFA students, local farmers and other community members helped mentor 1st-4th grade elementary students in planting, watering and labeling plants.
* Summer school classes were developed with curriculum centered around the garden. Students researched the plants that were planted, consumed the produce that was ready to be harvested at that time (lettuce, radishes, strawberries) and toured 2 local farms, making personal connections with area farmers.
* During the summer, 70 lbs. of produce were donated to our local food shelf and children in the latchkey program reaped the benefits of eating fresh from the garden.
* This Fall, produce was served to students in the elementary lunch line, FACE students created recipes for soups and salsas from the garden and flowers that were grown were presented to the office secretaries.
Our goals for next year:
* Establish an action group led by students, but including teachers and community members, to provide input on the future vision of the garden.
* Build more raised beds in an effort to increase production; continuing to feed our district students and add the hungry through local food shelves.
* Provide the opportunity for students to sell produce at school/farmers market.
* Maintain mentoring relationships between farmers and students.
* Raise funds that will help sustain this project and to plan for a future greenhouse.
This last goal leads to the information you will find below. Please consider this fundraiser in our efforts to sustain the garden and maintain educational opportunities for students to lead healthy lifestyles. Thank you for your consideration,
Garden Action Group |
