Elementary School Garden

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Our plan is to create a multifunctional outdoor garden area at Middlesex Elementary for students to engage in hands-on learning, social-emotional growth, and creative expression. The space will include raised garden beds, painted rocks for decoration and SEL activities, and areas dedicated to mindfulness and creative learning.

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1. Raised Garden Beds

   • Purpose: Students will cultivate vegetables, flowers, and herbs, learning about plant life cycles, environmental responsibility, and food origins.

   • Structure: Four raised garden beds (4ft x 8ft each) will be constructed with weather-resistant wood and lined with landscape fabric. Beds will be filled with nutrient-rich soil and planted with seasonal crops and pollinator-friendly flowers.

2. Rock Painting Area

   • Purpose: A creative space for students to paint and decorate rocks, expressing emotions and positive messages. Painted rocks will be placed in the garden for a decorative and motivational touch.

   • Materials Needed: Smooth landscaping rocks, non-toxic outdoor paints, paintbrushes, and sealant to weatherproof the rocks.

3. Social-Emotional Learning Zone

   • Purpose: A designated area for mindfulness activities, journal writing, and SEL lessons. This will provide students with a quiet place to practice deep breathing, reflection, and team-building activities in nature.

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Structure: Benches and log seating will be installed around the garden area, and shaded spots will be provided for comfort.

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North Carolina Educational Standards Alignment

This garden project aligns with several North Carolina educational standards across grades K-5, particularly in science and SEL standards.

1. Science Standards:

   • Kindergarten: K.L.1 - Compare characteristics of living and non-living things in an outdoor setting.

   • Grade 1: 1.L.2 - Recognize how plants and animals meet their needs.

   • Grade 2: 2.L.1 - Understand plant life cycles and environmental contributions.

   • Grade 3: 3.L.2 - Explore the role of plants in food chains and ecological systems.

   • Grade 4: 4.L.1 - Understand the effects of environmental changes on plants.

   • Grade 5: 5.L.2 - Study ecosystems and the balance of living organisms.

2. Social-Emotional Learning Standards:

   • Self-Management: Students practice regulating emotions through calming activities.

   • Social Awareness: Engage with peers in a collaborative space, developing empathy and understanding.

   • Relationship Skills: Develop teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution through shared responsibilities.

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This garden area will be a transformative outdoor classroom, providing students with hands-on educational experiences, creative expression, and social-emotional learning opportunities. By integrating nature-based activities with the North Carolina educational standards, this project will foster an enriched learning environment for students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Project Site Photos