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School
Community Gardens
School Ground Greening
by
Kelly Berlinic
This report was commissioned by the
Saskatchewan School Boards Association to
provide guidelines for school garden or greening
projects.
Study this resource to learn more about:
The rational and benefits of school garden or
greening projects.
Promising practices to guide your project.
Research Report # 07-06
School Community Gardens: School Ground Greening
3
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Table of Contents
Introduction........................................................................................................................ 1
1. Benefits......................................................................................................................... 3
Nature Nurtures ............................................................................................................. 4
Twenty Good Reasons................................................................................................... 5
2. Challenges.................................................................................................................... 7
3. Types of School Gardens and Greening Projects..................................................... 9
4. Seeds of Success .......................................................................................................11
Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program ............................................................ 13
The Edible Schoolyard................................................................................................. 14
PFRA Shelterbelt Tree Program .................................................................................. 14
5. Conclusion.................................................................................................................. 15
6. References.................................................................................................................. 17
School Community Gardens: School Ground Greening
1
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Introduction
This report was developed by the Saskatchewan School Boards
Association for School Community Councils, school administrators
and staff and Boards of Education to utilize as they consider school
gardens and greening projects within their school or division. It is
intended to serve as a resource to encourage and assist them as they
develop initiatives to enhance the school green-space.
There is an increasing trend towards school ground greening
projects in Canada. Educational stakeholders are recognizing
the value in transforming barren asphalt surfaces into growing
landscapes that educate and inspire. School ground greening projects
provide students with more engaging playground spaces, increased
environmental awareness and shade to protect against ultraviolet
radiation (UVR).
School community gardens offer students the opportunity to engage
in experiential learning and promote the concepts of ecology.
Integration of the school garden into the curriculum encourages
lesson plans that literally take the students from seed to table.
Students learn all aspects of the food cycle and are exposed to the
environment, food production, nutrition and ecology. School gardens
teach children where their food comes from and encourages good
eating practices by fostering an appreciation for natural
foods.
Ethno botanical gardens provide an excellent
opportunity to teach students about plants
traditionally utilized as food, materials and medicines
by First Nations. Students can experience hands-on
First Nation cultures and traditions such as planting a
Three Sisters Garden of corn, beans and squash.
Ecological literacy is gained by understanding natural
cycles and the interdependence of all living things. A
plot of wheat can teach students the full cycle as they
plant, cut, and stook, thresh, grind and eventually
bake the bread. This activity not only fosters eco-
literacy, but encourages a healthy respect for the
early settlers by exploring crop production as it was
done by pioneers.
2
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
School gardens and greening projects provide healthier living
spaces for the entire community. By encouraging student, parental
and community involvement in the planning and maintenance, the
school community garden fosters a shared sense of ownership and
pride in the school grounds.
By what is included or excluded we teach students
that they are part or apart from the natural world.
— David Orr, 1991
3
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
1. Benefits
There are many benefits to school community gardens and school
ground greening projects. These spaces provide opportunities for
experiential learning and expose students to the wonders of the
natural world. They teach the interconnectedness of all living things
by giving students hands-on experience with growing and nurturing
both plant and animal life.
Teachers are given new and expanded opportunities to bring the
curriculum to life within a school garden. Interaction with students in
the garden can positively reinforce relationships in the classroom.
When parents and community members are given the opportunity to
partner with the school in the planning, design and maintenance of
the school garden, this partnership fosters ownership for the school
property and encourages adult volunteerism and participation within
the school.
In Grounds for Action: Promoting Physical Activity through School
Ground Greening in Canada, authors Anne Bell and Janet Dyment
found that green school grounds support a wider spectrum of
play activities which in turn foster physical activity. They suggest
that there is an opportunity for school grounds to be “sites of
intervention”. The study contends that school ground greening
projects promote healthier activity on a regular basis and should be
considered when developing school-based preventative strategies
for overweight and obesity. Their findings draw a distinct correlation
between school ground greening and health promotion.
School-based nutrition programs are supported by school food
gardens by providing hands-on experience in the food production.
They also offer students opportunities to harvest and consume
nutritional food and educate them on the many varieties of native and
seasonal produce.
Nature has been for me, as long as I remember,
a source of solace, inspiration, adventure, and
delight; a home, a teacher, a companion.
— Lorraine Anderson
4
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Nature Nurtures
Nature Nurtures: Investigating the Potential of School Grounds, was
commissioned by Evergreen in 2000.This comprehensive review
examines the benefits of school ground greening.
The benefits cited in this review include:
For students:
• More meaningful play and learning
• Safer and less-hostile outdoor environment
• More gender-neutral play spaces
• Lower exposure to toxins
• Practical and hands-on opportunities that reflect the curriculum
• Better understanding of cultural differences
For Teachers:
• New curriculum connections
• Increased morale and enthusiasm for teaching and learning
• New reasons to go outside
• Reduced discipline and classroom management problems
For Community:
• Stronger sense of community and community satisfaction
• Active involvement for parents in children’s school
• Healthier natural environment
• Financial savings
For Schools:
• Curriculum connections
• Reduced disciplinary referrals, absenteeism and dropouts
• Reduction of anti-social behaviour on school grounds
Tell me and I’ll forget;
Show me and I may remember;
Involve me and I’ll understand.
— Chinese proverb
5
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Twenty Good Reasons
Below is the Edible Schoolyard List of 20 Good Reasons to Have
a Garden and Kitchen at Your School as posted on their website at
http://edibleschoolyard.org
1. The garden and kitchen provide a context for understanding
seasonality and life cycles.
2. It’s an opportunity to work cooperatively on real tasks.
3. Sensory experience becomes part of a child’s day at school.
4. The garden and kitchen offer opportunities to honor the
cultures comprising the MLK school community.
5. They provide opportunities for informal one-on-one time
for teachers and students to talk.
6. They create common experience to build on in multiple
settings – from classroom to celebration.
7. Students understand the role of food in life – the kitchen
and garden allow us to improve nutrition and highlight
healthy foods.
8. Students learn about where food really comes from.
9. Kitchen and garden experiences reinforce classroom
curriculum.
10. They provide opportunities for community involvement
– the kitchen and garden provide a link with neighbors,
volunteers, parents, and community businesses.
11. They offer opportunities to teach life skills such as
gardening and cooking.
12. The kitchen and garden setting helps broaden the way
teachers look at both curriculum and their students.
13. The garden and kitchen are beautiful spaces that connect
students to their school.
14. They provide a context for rituals and celebrations.
15. A kitchen and garden promote risk taking, such as trying
new things...foods, activities and making new friends.
16. Students value the garden – their sense of pride and
ownership discourages vandalism.
6
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
17. The kitchen and garden offer opportunities for students to
practice their observation skills.
18. In the kitchen and garden students build vocabulary...
both small and large.
19. The garden and kitchen offer opportunities to integrate
curriculum across subject areas.
20. In the kitchen and the garden, students can observe all of
the Principles of Ecology in practice.
Food is our common ground, a universal experience.
— James Beard
7
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
2. Challenges
School gardens and greening projects do not come without
challenges. Proper planning and involvement of all the stakeholders
during every stage of development will assist in overcoming these
barriers. A “team” approach will help to ensure the longevity of the
project. The vision may well have been ignited by a single individual
but it requires the support and enthusiasm of many people if the
project is to be sustainable.
Some of the issues that you will need to address are:
Safety
Careful planning is necessary to ensure the safety of everyone within
the garden during all stages of development
Funding
A well thought out business plan and long-term budget will help to
ensure the success of the project
Liability
Proper research of policies, bylaws, rules, regulations and insurance
should be thoroughly investigated before the project begins
Providing for all the needs within the school ground
Recreational and educational needs, high activity areas and spaces
that can sustain high usage must all be considered in the development
of your plan
Vandalism
Many project stewards report that vandalism of school property
decreases with the development of the school green space, however
careful consideration of this issue by the planning committee will
help to ensure success
8
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Community use
School yards are often open to the community and school gardens
and green spaces promote this shared utilization. Community usage
needs to be considered when planning
Maintenance
An ongoing long-term maintenance plan is crucial to the lasting
success of the project.
Examples of school greening projects that
successfully overcame these challenges and
more can be found at www.evergreen.ca
“Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them.”
— Eeyore, from A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh
9
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
3. Types of School Gardens and
Greening Projects
The range and variety of school gardens and greening projects
are limited only by the imagination. Consideration for climate,
drainage, native species, funding, volunteerism, curriculum goals and
aspirations are all part of the creative process. The stated dreams and
desires of stakeholders work in tandem with their needs and abilities
to shape and create the school green space. Projects often utilize
integrated designs that include multiple elements and consist of more
than one designation.
Using the most general terms, projects can be defined by four main
categories:
Habitat Restoration and Naturalization Projects
Sample Projects:
Forests Nesting areas
Wetlands Refuge areas
Meadows/prairie
Theme Gardens
Sample Projects:
Food gardens
Native wildflower/butterfly gardens
Multicultural gardens
Heritage vegetable and flower gardens
Planter box gardens
Herb gardens
Pond and bog gardens
Spaces for Active Play
Sample Projects:
Mounds Movable pieces
Slopes Amphitheatres
Seating Pathways
Hardy shrubs and trees
Landscapes to Enhance Stormwater Management
Sample Projects:
Dissipation areas
Swales
Streams
School Community Gardens: School Ground Greening
11
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
4. Seeds of Success
As with all great projects, there is no one way to design for success,
however there are some simple guidelines that will help to ensure
your project grows and thrives for years to come.
Form a Committee
Involve students, teachers, parents, administrators and the community
at large. School Community Councils are a natural fit. Look for
members who are passionate about starting a school greening
project. Do you have a resident botanist or horticulture club in your
community?
Brainstorm Ideas
Allow everyone to dream- the best plans often come from surprising
places. What are the hopes for the project? What do you intend to
achieve?
Develop a Plan
Early planning is critical to the success of your project. Develop
common themes and prioritize around them. Involve all the
stakeholders to ensure widespread support. There are many wonderful
examples of school green spaces already in existence. Take a look
at what is out there and how it was done to assist in your project
development.
Research
Consider all the potential benefits and barriers to your project and
research strategies to address the issues. Incorporating indigenous
plants and wildlife that will thrive in your school green space will
help to ensure success. Drainage, safety concerns and liability are just
some of the issues that require investigation. Proper research will help
you to overcome these challenges while maximizing the benefits of
your school greening project.
Draft a Written Proposal
This proposal should include a concept plan and detailed designs for
your green space.
Create Partnerships
Are there people or organizations that can assist the project?
Business, government and N.G.O.s can be a tremendous resource.
12
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Acquire Permission
Before proceeding with your plan, ensure that the proper permission
has been acquired. Legal agreements such as letters of understanding,
maintenance plans and sunset clauses may be necessary. Boards
of Education, municipalities and others need to be included in this
process and their bylaws and policies should be carefully considered
before development begins.
Secure Funding
Funding can make or break a project. Financial contributions and in-
kind donations of materials, equipment and labour should be securely
in place before moving forward with development. Consideration is
required for long-term maintenance costs of the project.
Develop a Maintenance Strategy
Successful projects require long-term maintenance strategies that
survive the initial outpouring of enthusiasm shown by students,
volunteers and teachers. Who will care for the garden during the
summer months when school is closed? How will regular weeding
and watering of the project be handled? These and many more
important questions need to be answered prior to development.
Plant
Developing the project will bring stakeholders together as they
engage in exciting activities that will give life to months of planning.
Consider starting out small and growing your project as enthusiasm
for your garden increases. Publicity for these activities might garner
further support.
Enjoy
Potential within the school community garden is limited only by the
level of creativity of its stewards and those who utilize the space.
Evaluate
A proper evaluation process will help to build capacity and ensure
long-term success.
13
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program
Evergreen is a national non-profit environmental organization
whose mandate is to bring nature to our cities through naturalization
projects. In partnership with Toyota Canada Inc. they have created the
Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program. Through this program
they are working to ensure school environments are nurturing. They
aim to contribute positively to the health and well-being of future
generations by educating children about the importance of restoring
and preserving the environment.
Expert assistance is available on how to get a greening project
started, planning, design, plant selection and fundraising.
Grants of $500 to $2000 are available to financially support publicly
funded Canadian schools (K-12) who want to undertake greening
projects.
Resources are available to provide information on all aspects of
school greening projects. Teachers can access lesson plans and
techniques for teaching outdoors as well as a library and section
entitled curriculum connections.
For more information, visit their website at www.evergreen.ca
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,
Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.
— Dr. Seuss, from The Lorax
14
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
The Edible Schoolyard
The Edible Schoolyard is a first-rate example of the potential benefits
of integrating a school garden into the curriculum. At Martin Luther
King Junior Middle School, students are provided with a one acre
organic garden and kitchen classroom. Students learn to plant, grow,
harvest and prepare nutritious foods. By overcoming the disconnect
between what we eat and where it comes from, they are providing their
students with lasting life skills and a true appreciation for nature.
To learn more about the Edible Garden and the Principals
of Ecology, visit their website at http://edibleschoolyard.org
PFRA Shelterbelt Tree Program
This program is available through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
The Shelterbelt Tree Program distributes seedlings to assist in the
planting of shelterbelts in Saskatchewan and throughout Western
Canada. Trees and shrubs are available free of charge. Applicants must
provide their own transportation, planting and maintenance costs.
While intended for farmers, governments, charitable organizations
and Band Councils, publicly funded schools might also be eligible
to apply. The plant material must be planted on school grounds and
should not be given to students for use at their home residences. PFRA
recommends that the seedlings be used for perimeter planting around
the school property.
For more information on how you can order native trees and shrubs
contact the PFRA Shelterbelt Centre, Indian Head, Saskatchewan
(306) 695-2284 Email: pfratree@agr.gc.ca
Website: http://www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/sbcprog_e.htm
If you want one year of prosperity, plant corn
If you want ten years of prosperity, plant trees.
If you want one hundred years of prosperity, educate people.
— Chinese proverb
15
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
5. Conclusion
School community gardens and greening projects provide many
benefits to students, teachers, parents and the community at large.
These spaces afford opportunities to expose students to the wonders
of the natural world and help to teach them of the inter-connectedness
of all living things. School gardens and green space can enhance
student physical activity, ecological literacy, knowledge of natural
cycles and offer increased protection from ultraviolet radiation.
School gardens allow students to engage in experiential learning and
provide teachers with expanded opportunities to bring the curriculum
to life. Interaction between teachers and students in the garden can
positively reinforce relationships in the classroom.
When parents and community members are given the opportunity to
be involved in the school garden, the partnership fosters ownership
for the school property and encourages adult volunteerism and
participation within the school.
School Community Gardens: School Ground Greening
17
School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening
A Resource for School Administrators
6. References
Barrs, R. (2002). School Ground Greening: A policy and planning
guidebook. Toronto: Evergreen.
http://edibleschoolyard.org
The Edible Schoolyard. (2006). Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle
School. Berkeley, CA. The Edible Schoolyard.
Bell, Anne. (2001).Grounds for Learning: Stories and insights from
six Canadian school ground naturalization initiatives. Toronto:
Evergreen.
Bell, Anne. Dyment, J. (2006). Grounds for Action: Promoting
Physical Activity through School Ground Greening in Canada.
Toronto: Evergreen.
Raffan, J. (2000). Nature nurtures: Investigating the potential of
school grounds. Toronto: Evergreen.
http://edibleschoolyard.org/howto.html
The Edible Schoolyard. (2006). 20 Good Reasons to Have a
Garden and Kitchen at Your School. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Middle School. Berkeley, CA. The Edible Schoolyard.
Morton, D. (2003).The Learning Grounds: Guide for schools.
Toronto: Evergreen
www.evergreen.ca
Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program. (2006). Toronto.
Evergreen.
http://www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/sbcprog_e.htm
PFRA Shelterbelt Tree Program. (2003) Indian Head,
Saskatchewan. Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration.
Agriculture and Agri-food Canada.
http://www.evergreen.ca/en/registry/search-results.php
Evergreen Project Registry for Saskatchewan Learning Grounds.
(2005). Toronto. Evergreen.

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School Community Gardens: School Ground Greening

  • 1. School Community Gardens School Ground Greening by Kelly Berlinic This report was commissioned by the Saskatchewan School Boards Association to provide guidelines for school garden or greening projects. Study this resource to learn more about: The rational and benefits of school garden or greening projects. Promising practices to guide your project. Research Report # 07-06
  • 3. 3 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Table of Contents Introduction........................................................................................................................ 1 1. Benefits......................................................................................................................... 3 Nature Nurtures ............................................................................................................. 4 Twenty Good Reasons................................................................................................... 5 2. Challenges.................................................................................................................... 7 3. Types of School Gardens and Greening Projects..................................................... 9 4. Seeds of Success .......................................................................................................11 Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program ............................................................ 13 The Edible Schoolyard................................................................................................. 14 PFRA Shelterbelt Tree Program .................................................................................. 14 5. Conclusion.................................................................................................................. 15 6. References.................................................................................................................. 17
  • 5. 1 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Introduction This report was developed by the Saskatchewan School Boards Association for School Community Councils, school administrators and staff and Boards of Education to utilize as they consider school gardens and greening projects within their school or division. It is intended to serve as a resource to encourage and assist them as they develop initiatives to enhance the school green-space. There is an increasing trend towards school ground greening projects in Canada. Educational stakeholders are recognizing the value in transforming barren asphalt surfaces into growing landscapes that educate and inspire. School ground greening projects provide students with more engaging playground spaces, increased environmental awareness and shade to protect against ultraviolet radiation (UVR). School community gardens offer students the opportunity to engage in experiential learning and promote the concepts of ecology. Integration of the school garden into the curriculum encourages lesson plans that literally take the students from seed to table. Students learn all aspects of the food cycle and are exposed to the environment, food production, nutrition and ecology. School gardens teach children where their food comes from and encourages good eating practices by fostering an appreciation for natural foods. Ethno botanical gardens provide an excellent opportunity to teach students about plants traditionally utilized as food, materials and medicines by First Nations. Students can experience hands-on First Nation cultures and traditions such as planting a Three Sisters Garden of corn, beans and squash. Ecological literacy is gained by understanding natural cycles and the interdependence of all living things. A plot of wheat can teach students the full cycle as they plant, cut, and stook, thresh, grind and eventually bake the bread. This activity not only fosters eco- literacy, but encourages a healthy respect for the early settlers by exploring crop production as it was done by pioneers.
  • 6. 2 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators School gardens and greening projects provide healthier living spaces for the entire community. By encouraging student, parental and community involvement in the planning and maintenance, the school community garden fosters a shared sense of ownership and pride in the school grounds. By what is included or excluded we teach students that they are part or apart from the natural world. — David Orr, 1991
  • 7. 3 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 1. Benefits There are many benefits to school community gardens and school ground greening projects. These spaces provide opportunities for experiential learning and expose students to the wonders of the natural world. They teach the interconnectedness of all living things by giving students hands-on experience with growing and nurturing both plant and animal life. Teachers are given new and expanded opportunities to bring the curriculum to life within a school garden. Interaction with students in the garden can positively reinforce relationships in the classroom. When parents and community members are given the opportunity to partner with the school in the planning, design and maintenance of the school garden, this partnership fosters ownership for the school property and encourages adult volunteerism and participation within the school. In Grounds for Action: Promoting Physical Activity through School Ground Greening in Canada, authors Anne Bell and Janet Dyment found that green school grounds support a wider spectrum of play activities which in turn foster physical activity. They suggest that there is an opportunity for school grounds to be “sites of intervention”. The study contends that school ground greening projects promote healthier activity on a regular basis and should be considered when developing school-based preventative strategies for overweight and obesity. Their findings draw a distinct correlation between school ground greening and health promotion. School-based nutrition programs are supported by school food gardens by providing hands-on experience in the food production. They also offer students opportunities to harvest and consume nutritional food and educate them on the many varieties of native and seasonal produce. Nature has been for me, as long as I remember, a source of solace, inspiration, adventure, and delight; a home, a teacher, a companion. — Lorraine Anderson
  • 8. 4 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Nature Nurtures Nature Nurtures: Investigating the Potential of School Grounds, was commissioned by Evergreen in 2000.This comprehensive review examines the benefits of school ground greening. The benefits cited in this review include: For students: • More meaningful play and learning • Safer and less-hostile outdoor environment • More gender-neutral play spaces • Lower exposure to toxins • Practical and hands-on opportunities that reflect the curriculum • Better understanding of cultural differences For Teachers: • New curriculum connections • Increased morale and enthusiasm for teaching and learning • New reasons to go outside • Reduced discipline and classroom management problems For Community: • Stronger sense of community and community satisfaction • Active involvement for parents in children’s school • Healthier natural environment • Financial savings For Schools: • Curriculum connections • Reduced disciplinary referrals, absenteeism and dropouts • Reduction of anti-social behaviour on school grounds Tell me and I’ll forget; Show me and I may remember; Involve me and I’ll understand. — Chinese proverb
  • 9. 5 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Twenty Good Reasons Below is the Edible Schoolyard List of 20 Good Reasons to Have a Garden and Kitchen at Your School as posted on their website at http://edibleschoolyard.org 1. The garden and kitchen provide a context for understanding seasonality and life cycles. 2. It’s an opportunity to work cooperatively on real tasks. 3. Sensory experience becomes part of a child’s day at school. 4. The garden and kitchen offer opportunities to honor the cultures comprising the MLK school community. 5. They provide opportunities for informal one-on-one time for teachers and students to talk. 6. They create common experience to build on in multiple settings – from classroom to celebration. 7. Students understand the role of food in life – the kitchen and garden allow us to improve nutrition and highlight healthy foods. 8. Students learn about where food really comes from. 9. Kitchen and garden experiences reinforce classroom curriculum. 10. They provide opportunities for community involvement – the kitchen and garden provide a link with neighbors, volunteers, parents, and community businesses. 11. They offer opportunities to teach life skills such as gardening and cooking. 12. The kitchen and garden setting helps broaden the way teachers look at both curriculum and their students. 13. The garden and kitchen are beautiful spaces that connect students to their school. 14. They provide a context for rituals and celebrations. 15. A kitchen and garden promote risk taking, such as trying new things...foods, activities and making new friends. 16. Students value the garden – their sense of pride and ownership discourages vandalism.
  • 10. 6 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 17. The kitchen and garden offer opportunities for students to practice their observation skills. 18. In the kitchen and garden students build vocabulary... both small and large. 19. The garden and kitchen offer opportunities to integrate curriculum across subject areas. 20. In the kitchen and the garden, students can observe all of the Principles of Ecology in practice. Food is our common ground, a universal experience. — James Beard
  • 11. 7 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 2. Challenges School gardens and greening projects do not come without challenges. Proper planning and involvement of all the stakeholders during every stage of development will assist in overcoming these barriers. A “team” approach will help to ensure the longevity of the project. The vision may well have been ignited by a single individual but it requires the support and enthusiasm of many people if the project is to be sustainable. Some of the issues that you will need to address are: Safety Careful planning is necessary to ensure the safety of everyone within the garden during all stages of development Funding A well thought out business plan and long-term budget will help to ensure the success of the project Liability Proper research of policies, bylaws, rules, regulations and insurance should be thoroughly investigated before the project begins Providing for all the needs within the school ground Recreational and educational needs, high activity areas and spaces that can sustain high usage must all be considered in the development of your plan Vandalism Many project stewards report that vandalism of school property decreases with the development of the school green space, however careful consideration of this issue by the planning committee will help to ensure success
  • 12. 8 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Community use School yards are often open to the community and school gardens and green spaces promote this shared utilization. Community usage needs to be considered when planning Maintenance An ongoing long-term maintenance plan is crucial to the lasting success of the project. Examples of school greening projects that successfully overcame these challenges and more can be found at www.evergreen.ca “Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them.” — Eeyore, from A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh
  • 13. 9 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 3. Types of School Gardens and Greening Projects The range and variety of school gardens and greening projects are limited only by the imagination. Consideration for climate, drainage, native species, funding, volunteerism, curriculum goals and aspirations are all part of the creative process. The stated dreams and desires of stakeholders work in tandem with their needs and abilities to shape and create the school green space. Projects often utilize integrated designs that include multiple elements and consist of more than one designation. Using the most general terms, projects can be defined by four main categories: Habitat Restoration and Naturalization Projects Sample Projects: Forests Nesting areas Wetlands Refuge areas Meadows/prairie Theme Gardens Sample Projects: Food gardens Native wildflower/butterfly gardens Multicultural gardens Heritage vegetable and flower gardens Planter box gardens Herb gardens Pond and bog gardens Spaces for Active Play Sample Projects: Mounds Movable pieces Slopes Amphitheatres Seating Pathways Hardy shrubs and trees Landscapes to Enhance Stormwater Management Sample Projects: Dissipation areas Swales Streams
  • 15. 11 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 4. Seeds of Success As with all great projects, there is no one way to design for success, however there are some simple guidelines that will help to ensure your project grows and thrives for years to come. Form a Committee Involve students, teachers, parents, administrators and the community at large. School Community Councils are a natural fit. Look for members who are passionate about starting a school greening project. Do you have a resident botanist or horticulture club in your community? Brainstorm Ideas Allow everyone to dream- the best plans often come from surprising places. What are the hopes for the project? What do you intend to achieve? Develop a Plan Early planning is critical to the success of your project. Develop common themes and prioritize around them. Involve all the stakeholders to ensure widespread support. There are many wonderful examples of school green spaces already in existence. Take a look at what is out there and how it was done to assist in your project development. Research Consider all the potential benefits and barriers to your project and research strategies to address the issues. Incorporating indigenous plants and wildlife that will thrive in your school green space will help to ensure success. Drainage, safety concerns and liability are just some of the issues that require investigation. Proper research will help you to overcome these challenges while maximizing the benefits of your school greening project. Draft a Written Proposal This proposal should include a concept plan and detailed designs for your green space. Create Partnerships Are there people or organizations that can assist the project? Business, government and N.G.O.s can be a tremendous resource.
  • 16. 12 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Acquire Permission Before proceeding with your plan, ensure that the proper permission has been acquired. Legal agreements such as letters of understanding, maintenance plans and sunset clauses may be necessary. Boards of Education, municipalities and others need to be included in this process and their bylaws and policies should be carefully considered before development begins. Secure Funding Funding can make or break a project. Financial contributions and in- kind donations of materials, equipment and labour should be securely in place before moving forward with development. Consideration is required for long-term maintenance costs of the project. Develop a Maintenance Strategy Successful projects require long-term maintenance strategies that survive the initial outpouring of enthusiasm shown by students, volunteers and teachers. Who will care for the garden during the summer months when school is closed? How will regular weeding and watering of the project be handled? These and many more important questions need to be answered prior to development. Plant Developing the project will bring stakeholders together as they engage in exciting activities that will give life to months of planning. Consider starting out small and growing your project as enthusiasm for your garden increases. Publicity for these activities might garner further support. Enjoy Potential within the school community garden is limited only by the level of creativity of its stewards and those who utilize the space. Evaluate A proper evaluation process will help to build capacity and ensure long-term success.
  • 17. 13 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program Evergreen is a national non-profit environmental organization whose mandate is to bring nature to our cities through naturalization projects. In partnership with Toyota Canada Inc. they have created the Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program. Through this program they are working to ensure school environments are nurturing. They aim to contribute positively to the health and well-being of future generations by educating children about the importance of restoring and preserving the environment. Expert assistance is available on how to get a greening project started, planning, design, plant selection and fundraising. Grants of $500 to $2000 are available to financially support publicly funded Canadian schools (K-12) who want to undertake greening projects. Resources are available to provide information on all aspects of school greening projects. Teachers can access lesson plans and techniques for teaching outdoors as well as a library and section entitled curriculum connections. For more information, visit their website at www.evergreen.ca Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It’s not. — Dr. Seuss, from The Lorax
  • 18. 14 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators The Edible Schoolyard The Edible Schoolyard is a first-rate example of the potential benefits of integrating a school garden into the curriculum. At Martin Luther King Junior Middle School, students are provided with a one acre organic garden and kitchen classroom. Students learn to plant, grow, harvest and prepare nutritious foods. By overcoming the disconnect between what we eat and where it comes from, they are providing their students with lasting life skills and a true appreciation for nature. To learn more about the Edible Garden and the Principals of Ecology, visit their website at http://edibleschoolyard.org PFRA Shelterbelt Tree Program This program is available through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The Shelterbelt Tree Program distributes seedlings to assist in the planting of shelterbelts in Saskatchewan and throughout Western Canada. Trees and shrubs are available free of charge. Applicants must provide their own transportation, planting and maintenance costs. While intended for farmers, governments, charitable organizations and Band Councils, publicly funded schools might also be eligible to apply. The plant material must be planted on school grounds and should not be given to students for use at their home residences. PFRA recommends that the seedlings be used for perimeter planting around the school property. For more information on how you can order native trees and shrubs contact the PFRA Shelterbelt Centre, Indian Head, Saskatchewan (306) 695-2284 Email: pfratree@agr.gc.ca Website: http://www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/sbcprog_e.htm If you want one year of prosperity, plant corn If you want ten years of prosperity, plant trees. If you want one hundred years of prosperity, educate people. — Chinese proverb
  • 19. 15 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 5. Conclusion School community gardens and greening projects provide many benefits to students, teachers, parents and the community at large. These spaces afford opportunities to expose students to the wonders of the natural world and help to teach them of the inter-connectedness of all living things. School gardens and green space can enhance student physical activity, ecological literacy, knowledge of natural cycles and offer increased protection from ultraviolet radiation. School gardens allow students to engage in experiential learning and provide teachers with expanded opportunities to bring the curriculum to life. Interaction between teachers and students in the garden can positively reinforce relationships in the classroom. When parents and community members are given the opportunity to be involved in the school garden, the partnership fosters ownership for the school property and encourages adult volunteerism and participation within the school.
  • 21. 17 School Community Gardens – School Ground Greening A Resource for School Administrators 6. References Barrs, R. (2002). School Ground Greening: A policy and planning guidebook. Toronto: Evergreen. http://edibleschoolyard.org The Edible Schoolyard. (2006). Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School. Berkeley, CA. The Edible Schoolyard. Bell, Anne. (2001).Grounds for Learning: Stories and insights from six Canadian school ground naturalization initiatives. Toronto: Evergreen. Bell, Anne. Dyment, J. (2006). Grounds for Action: Promoting Physical Activity through School Ground Greening in Canada. Toronto: Evergreen. Raffan, J. (2000). Nature nurtures: Investigating the potential of school grounds. Toronto: Evergreen. http://edibleschoolyard.org/howto.html The Edible Schoolyard. (2006). 20 Good Reasons to Have a Garden and Kitchen at Your School. Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School. Berkeley, CA. The Edible Schoolyard. Morton, D. (2003).The Learning Grounds: Guide for schools. Toronto: Evergreen www.evergreen.ca Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds Program. (2006). Toronto. Evergreen. http://www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/sbcprog_e.htm PFRA Shelterbelt Tree Program. (2003) Indian Head, Saskatchewan. Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada. http://www.evergreen.ca/en/registry/search-results.php Evergreen Project Registry for Saskatchewan Learning Grounds. (2005). Toronto. Evergreen.