We are a STEM Magnet middle school servicing students in a low socio-economic urban community. Amidst many bodegas and few grocery stores, at least 50% of the community makes less than 25K income. We just joined a garden coalition in the community. Our community problem to address is living in an area targeted as a food desert.
Through planting herb and vegetable gardens in school and at home, students will have increased opportunities to eat healthy, flavorful foods that increase veggie intake. Making a connection between the senses (touch, sight, smell, etc.) emotions and empathy while planting/gardening herbs and vegetables students can experience a greater awareness of the importance of themselves, their feelings and how they interact in the world. Additionally, students can experience increased energy, calm and develop a more expansive palate for varying foods. Actions the group will take to implement the project are 1. meet with families and discuss the role of growing herbs and vegetables as a curriculum extension teaching Next Generation Science Standards and providing hands on experiential life long learning. 2. Each family/student will plant an herb such as basil, cilantro, chives, to grow at school and an item to grow at home. Each week students will be asked to document the changes in their plant at home/school and discuss the role of science. 3. In spring, during a STEM family night, families will be asked to harvest their herb, create a simple dish and share with other families interested in learning to garden. Students are involved in the selection and planning of the project by deciding the herbs to grow, and creating a system for documentation. The 22nd Street Community Garden Coalition will have their urban agriculturalist team with students/families to ensure proper gardening procedures are used.
