Last spring, Eisenhower teacher Alexa Soles took notice of what was happening outside the Junior High School gymnasium, where Indiana Junior High Garden Club members were growing produce in raised garden beds.
For the past few years at the Junior High, the Garden Club – under the supervision of club advisor Brad Adams with assistance from Jeff Duffee – has grown fresh food that they have been able to enjoy for lunch in their cafeteria.
In the fall, Mr. Adams reached out to the district’s elementary schools to drum up interest and offer assistance in starting a similar program at the elementary level. Ms. Soles was the first teacher to respond, and garden beds were recently delivered to their new home at Eisenhower by Mr. Adams, with help from teachers Mike Rhea and Kevin Staruch.
Ms. Sole’s plan is to start a garden club with a group of 4th and 5th grade students, partnering with the Junior High to learn about growing and caring for plants. “We’re looking forward to creating a fun, hands-on learning experience for our students while building collaboration across grade levels.”
The containers are filled and ready for planting such things as cherry tomatoes, peppers, flowers, basil, and more. Soon Eisenhower students will also be able to partake of fresh lunch ingredients, as well as important conversations about plant growing and nutrition.
The Eisenhower club’s motto will be: "Little hands can grow big things!"