The Steen School Garden of Peace and Hope
The Steen School Garden of Peace and Hope is used by students, teachers, and the community. In addition to the students learning about agriculture, the origination of healthy foods and various types of flora, wildlife and produce, it allows children to understand the nutritional benefits of eating healthy food as an expression of self-respect. The Garden promotes peace and understanding by teaching children how different cultures through history utilized gardens as a means of survival and community Second Grade teacher and Board Member of City Green Cornelia Burns Geraghty is the project manager. Many components of the garden have been modeled after the City Green philosophy which promotes social justice and environmental equality through these greening efforts. The Garden inspires young people to learn, engage in their community, take care of themselves and their neighborhoods, respect and care for their environment. In gaining a better understanding of respecting their environment, our students grow in self respect and respect for others. In addition, the garden provides meaningful and purposeful activities while encouraging individual growth and cultivating positive connections with nature and peers.