Thomas Edison Elementary School

The garden will provide a space for reading, discussions, and science-related study. In particular, it will help promote and instill healthier lifestyles in students given the rise of childhood obesity/diabetes. The planting and care of edible plants will provide the classes the opportunity to learn life-long healthy eating habits. One of the most important discoveries students make during their journey through elementary school is the discovery of the joy of learning. A garden will honor that which teachers, parents, and community members value most: instilling in every child a love of learning. To be able to spill out of the classroom into the natural setting of a garden will enhance our students’ experiences with hands-on opportunities and contribute to the realization that learning is a pleasure to be enjoyed in a variety of settings throughout the day. Community members with knowledge of plants and insects will be able to give lessons in this outdoor classroom.