The Problem
Students seldom get hands-on experience with the growing process of their food. This creates a divide between the agricultural industry and their consumers. School gardens serve as outdoor classrooms, teaching students the importance of soil health and food production. Furthermore, research suggests students who participate in school gardens are more likely to try and have increased preference for veggies and fruits. A school garden also gives students an opportunity to spend time outdoors. Most of students\' learning in done inside a classroom, so school gardens offer a different angle of learning.Visiting the garden can also lead to increased appreciation for the environment. With the stress of school testing, gardens become a place of rest and relaxation. Lastly, school gardens teach students responsibility, communication, teamwork, and leadership. Working toward a common cause fosters a sense of community, bringing parents, teachers, and students together.
