Upper Elementary

A red brick pathway zigzags the rooftop of the Native American Student and Community Center (NASCC), traversing through seven beds of native plants. The fully-accessible path passes through cascading terraces of grasses, shrubs and flowers. Species include elderberry, oregon grape, kinnikinnick, salal, sedum, native roses, lupine and reeds. Just southwest of NASCC, native plants with medicinal and cultural uses  cover the I-405 overpass through a partnership with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

The Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF) is a California-based nonprofit that builds sustainable food and farming systems through local and statewide policy advocacy and on-the-ground programs in an effort to initiate institutionalized change. CAFF’s programs address current problems and challenges in food and farming systems, creating more resilient family farms, communities and ecosystems. CAFF works to support family farmers and serves community members within the state, including consumers, food service directors, school children and low-income populations.

We have a small garden of 4 garden boxes and 12 fruit trees.  We are currently in the process of explanding to appox. 9000 sq ft.  which will include 35+ garden boxes, a small green house, and possibly a pumpkin patch.  

Hamilton School's garden allows students of all backgrounds to learn about where their food comes from. In doing so they are able to make healthier food choices and take ownership of their nutrition. It also provides an opportunity for students to get out of the classroom and apply their learning to a real-world environment.