School Gardens

School gardens transform learning by connecting students to the source of their food, the rhythms of nature, and the power of growing something with their own hands. Through curriculum-integrated garden programs, students develop science skills, environmental awareness, and healthy relationships with food.

Program Impact

Multiple School Partnerships across Aquidneck Island
Year-Round Curriculum Integration connecting gardens to classroom learning
Hands-On Education teaching science, nutrition, and environmental stewardship
Student Leadership Development through garden responsibility and peer teaching

Our School Garden Partners

Pell Elementary School (2017)

Partnership: Integrated K-5 garden curriculum
Since 2018, our partnership with Pell Elementary has grown to offer weekly garden lessons where students learn plant life cycles, soil health, garden management, composting, and sustainable food systems through hands-on experience.

Program Features:

Weekly garden lessons for all grade levels
Seasonal planting and harvesting activities
Compost and soil health education
Integration with science curriculum standards

Educational Impact

“It’s so wonderful to see the students who struggle in the classroom come to life when working hands-on in the garden. I truly feel it levels the playing field in that students who may not feel successful with ‘book learning,’ feel good about contributing to nature, and their peers. It is so important for students to know that there are many different ways they can contribute … and many different professions that you can do that don’t involve sitting at a desk all day. I just love taking learning outside the classroom and giving other students a chance to shine!”

– Mrs. Kathleen Breede, Pell Class Teacher 2019

Get Involved in School Gardens

Interested in hosting a school program?

For Educators

Explore partnership opportunities to bring garden-based learning to your school.

For Volunteers

Support school garden programming through mentorship and hands-on assistance.

For Parents and Families

Learn about your child's garden experiences and extend learning at home.

For Community Members

Support school garden programming through donations of time, materials, or funding.

Join The Food System Transformation

We are building a new food system for our island where people grow their own food; support local farmers, fishers, and makers; and ensure no one goes hungry.