Orchard Gardens K-8 Pilot School

CitySprouts gardens are a vital resource for children's health and learning. When teachers bring classes to the garden, children see difficult concepts come to life in a rich sensory environment. In this way the garden promotes academic engagement across the curriculum. The garden also connects children to the food they eat and empowers them to make healthy food choices. By planting and harvesting fruits, vegetables and grains, children develop a taste and appreciation for nutritious food.

This grant will allow essential improvements to the garden at OGPS. Additions to the fruit garden will increase both the variety of garden crops for children to taste and the diversity of lessons that can be taught. This addition will also make the garden a more inviting place for teachers and students, increasing garden use. The purchase of a metal shed will improve the operational efficiency of the garden by providing the garden coordinator with a place to store tools and equipment on-site.