Damar Charter Academy

Our garden is one of the most popular activities on campus because it combines fun with academics, physical activity and learning in an outdoor setting. Many children with developmental disabilities learn best when engaged in hands-on activities. Our teachers report the garden program increases learning retention, builds relationships and develops positive socialization. Wellness, good nutrition, recycling, physical work and community service are taught and modeled by staff. The school's goal is to equip students with tools for healthy, independent lives, while treating them for their maladaptive behaviors and past traumas. The garden shares this goal.

With this grant, the school will build additional raised beds, add rich dirt, purchase a greenhouse and cold frames, and plant fruit trees. Many students with developmental disabilities lack good physical coordination, and raised beds help them discern the planted areas form the walking paths. A greenhouse/cold frames will allow students to start plants earlier in the season. This will allow the off-campus students, not present at Damar in the summer, to more fully participate in garden activities.