Cochise Elementary School

Our state had the seventh-highest rate of obesity in 2011 (for children ages 10-17). This is worrisome, especially considering the fact that our students only attend physical education about twice a month due to financial constraints. We strongly believe that a school garden is essential in promoting healthy living and nutrition for our students, their families and the community.
This grant would make it possible for our school to expand the current edible garden (1 raised bed) to include 6 more raised beds. This would, therefore, allow at least 150 more students to reap the healthy benefits of growing food from seed.
In our edible garden, we hope to cultivate the following: a knowledge about how to grow fruits and vegetables, a positive relationship with gardening and nutritious foods, an appreciation for nature, environmental stewardship, patience and cooperation, school and community pride and meaningful hands-on learning experiences that utilize the garden as an outdoor classroom.