PS1 Pluralistic School

Garden plots are an extension of the physical classroom and the integrated curriculum. Students learn through hands-on experience when they view grade level lesson units through authentic gardening. Soil studies, weather patterns, water resources, herbs, vegetables, flowers, health and nutrition, food cycles and insects are some of the curricular units. The art room makes regular use of the rooftop garden as a venue for observation and inspiration, and has studied pigments found in nature. The garden is a part of the classroom experience and a demonstration of sustainable practices. The knowledge gained from encounters while working in the garden furthers their understanding of the interrelatedness of humans and nature. The products of the harvest may be used for classroom projects such as cooking for healthy living and foods for our pets, or throughout the campus such as floral arrangements in the common areas, or as donation to the greater community. The grant provide PS1 teachers with resources to continue to expand upon students