Vision

The “Sustainable Food and Growing” project was rooted in a vision to empower students with the knowledge and skills to grow their own food while fostering environmental stewardship and community engagement. The goal was not only to teach gardening techniques but also to connect learning to real-world issues such as climate change, rising food costs, and food insecurity. By integrating topics like seed starting, plant care, companion planting, and nutrition into the project, we aimed to inspire students to think critically about sustainability and make meaningful contributions both at home and in their communities. We envisioned a space where students would take ownership of their learning, share their knowledge with others, and be part of a movement toward a more sustainable and equitable future.

Action

To bring this vision to life, students organized and led a community event that featured educational booths on topics such as “How to Start Seeds,” “How to Water Plants,” “Three Sisters Gardening,” and “Varieties of Tomatoes.” The event was supported by five local experts—including representatives from the Smiths Falls Library, Green Acres Greenhouses, the Lanark Master Gardener Group, a parent seed expert, and a local dietitian—who offered valuable insights and resources. Students engaged peers, families, and community members in hands-on activities, including a DIY salad bar, a potting station, and a seed-sharing area. In preparation, they conducted research, collaborated in teams, and worked hard to prepare presentations and materials. We also installed 12 vertical planters in classrooms to extend the learning experience, with student leaders now mentoring younger peers in planting and plant care. Participation grew from an initial 10% to nearly 97%, showing how powerful student-led learning can be when it’s connected to meaningful, real-life applications.

Reflection & Celebration

Looking back, the most rewarding aspect of the project was seeing students take ownership of their learning and proudly share it with others. What began as a small group of participants grew into a nearly full-class effort, with students excitedly inviting their families and friends to join the event. Their confidence, leadership, and pride were evident as they explained gardening techniques, guided activities, and reflected on the importance of sustainability. We were also thrilled to distribute hundreds of seed packs and 70 potted plants to families, helping them begin their own growing journeys. This project not only deepened academic learning but also built connections between students, families, and the broader community. It was a celebration of knowledge, teamwork, and the belief that even small actions—like planting a seed—can lead to meaningful change for people and the planet.