The Problem
Lack of clean and healthy spaces in our area.
Our Plan
Researching what would help our community the most. For example, a community garden, cleaning up a local park, creating a recycling system for our school, etc.
Themes Addressed
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Community
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Community Enhancement
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Compassion
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Global Citizenship
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The Benefit
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People
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Animals
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Environment
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Here is how the project went:
The students began by observing our courtyard and identifying problems. The students then researched and created solutions to their problems. Each student submitted a proposal and we decided which projects to move forward with. The students were working on natural and safe ways to get rid of lantern flies (an invasive species in our area), ways to sustainably restore our garden beds, and make usable space.
Through this project I/we learned:
Vinegar will safely kill lantern flies and weeds. Lantern flies are an invasive species to our area. This is dangerous because they can deplete our resources. The smell of lavender also repels lantern flies. Perennial Plants come back every year, if you take care of them. Annual plants, may be pretty, but will not come back next year. Students also learned how to tend to a garden: tilling soil, properly watering plants, how to plant vegetation, and sustainable gardening practices.
What I/we might change:
There is not much I would change. The students were invested because they identified the problem and researched solutions. We hope to continue this project in the spring.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Every student had an opportunity to shine and grow. Some students learned gardening techniques, while other students were the ones to show them this new skill.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
The students successfully cleaned up the area of lantern flies and created clean working spaces. Our students hope to continue their work and start a gardening club.