Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom High School

Our goal is to develop a school garden that will serve as an outdoor classroom where students can learn about nutrition and wellness. Last year, students and staff members cleaned up and repaired an empty roof area to create a vibrant community gathering place. We also planted herbs, vegetables and flowers. Although the garden was small, the experience was transformative for the students. Many students shared that the experience helped them feel more connected to the earth, make better choices about eating and feel a greater sense of community.
This year, two urban gardening classes will be responsible for the garden. Students will research nutrition, the environment and community health issues. Based on their ideas and inquiry, students will design and develop the garden. The teens will use the garden to educate their peers about nutrition and health. Our goal is to have a thriving garden that will provide knowledge, nutrition and desperately-needed greenspace for our teens.