Fusion Academy & Learning Center Edible Garden Workshop

As part of the life skills education at Fusion Academy, a Garden-to-Table workshop was initiated over the summer of 2011. The edible garden portion of this workshop gives students a basic introduction to gardening, with an emphasis on ecology and environmental science. For more advanced students, there is the potential to explore topics in plant and cell biology. The other portion of the workshop includes trips to different farmers markets and farms in Orange County, followed up with lessons in the basics of cooking. By the end of the workshop, students are familiar with a variety of fresh ingredients and cooking techniques that will help them expand their taste palettes and become more self-sufficient young adults.

One of our greatest challenges was to find a place to plant the garden. A proposal for a 3x5 raised bed in the back of Suite 140 was denied by the landlord, because "it does not work with the intended usage at a professional commercial office building." Soon after, one of our parents enthusiastically offered their backyard so their son and other students could participate in this kind of learning experience. This situation has been a real blessing, especially because we are welcome to use their beautiful kitchen, steps away from the garden. Being able to make something delicious, with the garden in view, is such a special treat.

We are currently growing a pizza garden. We are planting the wheat for the crust, the tomatoes for the sauce, the herbs, and other delicious veggies for toppings. We are looking for a local source of milk, so we can attempt to make our own mozzarella. It would be super fabulous if we could find a local chef who wants to participate and supervise our cheese-making efforts, because we want this pizza to be the best ever!