The Problem
When I returned to Griffin Elementary seven years after graduating, I found the butterfly garden where I first fell in love with science neglected and overgrown with weeds. A space where I had once spent afternoons learning about pollination and butterfly migration had become an overlooked habitat. Without consistent care, the garden could no longer thrive as it once had, limiting its ability to support local wildlife and inspire students to explore the natural world. We want to restore the garden while helping students understand why native plants matter and how protecting local habitats can make a difference for their communities.
Our Plan
In partnership with the Houston Zoo, we worked alongside Griffin Elementary students over the course of a year to restore and maintain the butterfly garden. We removed weeds, cared for existing plants, and taught students about the importance of native vegetation in supporting pollinators and other wildlife. We also organized native seed-ball workshops, where students combined wildflower seeds, clay, and soil to create seed balls they could take home and plant. By giving students hands-on opportunities to care for the garden and grow native plants themselves, we hoped to foster a lasting sense of environmental responsibility. Our goal is to maintain a thriving garden that supports local wildlife while inspiring students to become active stewards of their environment.
