Woodland Forrest Elementary

Our teaching garden provides opportunities for hands-on learning in core curriculum including science, math, reading, and writing; leadership and responsibility; entrepreneurialism; as well as instruction in food origins, production, cultivation, and preparation. This interdisciplinary approach has established a measurable increase in students’ academic performance. A University of Alabama study also found improvements in physical health (measured by body mass index), and a willingness to eat vegetables. Our student-run farm stand provides reduced-rate produce for families and allows parents to get involved by taking home and preparing what their children have helped to grow.

This grant will make possible a much-needed expansion of our school garden, including new nectary beds. These nectary beds will create habitat for garden-friendly insects that will help pollinate and organically protect our garden from pests, as well as provide expanded learning opportunities for our students.