School Gardens for Education and Inspiration

Transforming Minds, Empowering Futures, and Restoring Nature

The Educational Gardening Program focuses on shaping young minds by teaching students how native plants and sustainable gardening practices impact our ecosystems. This program emphasizes hands-on opportunities to inspire students to become changemakers in their own communities, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to turn their lawns into gardens at home.

Our Mission

This program is about more than creating gardens. It’s about planting ideas and cultivating a sense of responsibility. Students will learn how native plants differ from non-native species, exploring their unique root systems, benefits to soil health, and role in supporting biodiversity. Through hands-on work, they will connect classroom lessons to real-world applications, gaining the confidence to lead the way in creating a healthier environment.

Key Features of the Program

Inspiring Change Through Hands-On Learning

Students will engage in every step of the gardening process, from planting native species to designing sustainable landscapes. These experiences empower them to take the lessons home and imagine transforming their own lawns into thriving gardens.

Native Plants vs. Non-Native Species

By comparing root systems and ecological impacts, students will see how native plants like switchgrass and little bluestem support pollinators, reduce water runoff, and restore biodiversity, while non-native species often fail to provide similar benefits.

Building Toward a Greener Future

Students who complete the program can progress to Phase 2, where we work with their families to help turn their lawns into gardens, just like the ones they created at school. This pathway encourages real-world action and lasting environmental impact.

Impact on Students

This program aims to:

• Expand Knowledge by teaching students about native ecosystems and sustainable practices.
• Develop Skills through hands-on experience with planting, soil preparation, and design.
• Inspire Action by empowering students to apply their knowledge in their own backyards.

By focusing on education, we’re shaping a generation of leaders ready to create greener communities and advocate for sustainable living.

Program Details

• Cost Per School Garden: $67,000
  This includes educational materials, native plants, garden tools, and support for Phase 2 home gardening programs.
• Garden Features:
  • Native species to demonstrate sustainable planting practices.
  • Interactive stations comparing native vs. non-native plants.
  • Workshops led by experts in conservation and gardening.

Phase 2: From Schoolyard to Backyard

Students who complete the program and show a passion for gardening will have the opportunity to advance to Phase 2. In this phase, we work directly with their families to transform their lawns into gardens, bringing the lessons from school to life at home.

Phase 2 includes:

• Personalized garden design and native plant selection.
• Hands-on guidance from program experts.
• Access to resources to ensure the garden thrives for years to come.

Why This Matters

This program is about inspiring young minds to take action. By learning how native plants restore ecosystems and prevent flooding, students will see how small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference. With the opportunity to bring these lessons home, they’ll become advocates for sustainability in their families and communities.

Your support can inspire students to lead the charge for environmental change. Every donation helps us create school gardens and provide the tools and resources needed for students to take their knowledge into their own neighborhoods.

Let’s empower young Texans to transform their world starting with their own backyards!