Vision

Given the declining population of native bees, butterflies, and other insect pollinators, students of Niji Mahkwa School decided to build a sanctuary for them by planting pollinator-friendly plants.

Pollen is a crucial food source for many insects, so a lack of it could lead to starvation for these insects. 75% to 95% of all plants need pollinators, and pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat.

Action

Students researched and selected pollinator-friendly native flowers to grow in our garden to bring in more pollinators! They realized that planting lots of plants with a certain color can also help the attraction of certain insects. Students concluded that pollinators need more than just flowers to thrive, they also require shelter for their younger populations. Plants with leaves and soft tissues along with ground cover plants can provide great shelter for many insects. The students chose two spaces to create their green space. One on the front of the school in empty planters and one on the back of the school. The one on the back of the school will be created on Hard top in Planters. The students even created posters to remind other students to be careful and respectful of the growing plants. Some of the seeds were started indoors under lights while some were directly planted in the planters. The students were able to observe the growth of seedlings.

Reflection & Celebration

This is an ongoing project. The students developed a greater sense of belonging and appreciation for the environment. Being outside and planting ended up being an immersive experience for students away from digital devices that lifted their spirits and instilled sense of community among them. Students participated in every step right from choosing the seeds, planting them indoors under lights and outdoors in planters. They celebrated their successes -right when a seedling emerged from a peat pellet, digging weeds from the planters, making posters to take care of seedlings, making bird houses and making wooden planters. They were very proud of their all accomplishments.