Arapahoe Ridge Elementary

Program Type: 
Garden Classrooms
Grade Level/Age Group: 
Kindergarten, Lower Elementary
Number of Individuals Program Serves: 
1,000
Year Founded: 
2014
About the Program: 

With the firm belief that healthy students are better learners, Arapahoe Ridge Elementary is committed to building a school garden that will support the health education of students.

The garden will promote a culture of wellness. Students will be physically active in the garden and have the opportunity to taste foods harvested from the garden. Students will understand that food comes from plants.
The school garden will increase access to fresh and organic produce. Garden produce will be sold to the school community through youth farmers markets. Families who assist in summer garden maintenance can bring home any produce ready to harvest.

The garden will enhance the educational experience of students. Students will have hands-on experiences and ownership in the garden. They will experience a full plant cycle, from planting to harvesting. Garden experiences will enrich math, science, literature and art curriculum.

Lastly, the garden will foster an increased sense of community. Garden work days will bring families together by working toward a common goal. Culturally themed garden beds will nurture tolerance and understanding among students.