Buckland Mills Elementary School’s Learning Garden Committee has partnered with Rooted in Education to create a hands-on learning experience that represents the spirit of National Earth Science Week.

“The BMES learning garden is one of my many passions and it has been a joy to work with family, friends, neighbors, community members, Boy Scout Packs, National Honor Society students from all our feeder middle and high schools, BMES administration, BMES families, BMES faculty, and our brilliant students for more than 10 years,” stated Marylouise Polhamus, second grade teacher.

Nadia Stewart, founder and executive director of Rooted in Education, added, “We are thrilled to join the BMES administration and faculty in partnership to support the educational journey of their students and contribute to the health and wellbeing of their families and community.”

The collaboration was designed to offer students an immersive learning experience, connecting them to the natural world and reinforcing key curriculum concepts. By participating in the planting and caring of the garden, students gain hands-on experience with ecosystems, plant biology, and sustainability. The garden, designed as a “living laboratory,” allows students from kindergarten through fifth grade to engage in various planting activities, tailored to meet PWCS science standards.

“I didn't expect to get into the garden, but it was cool because we learned how to garden and get our hands dirty,” said Isabella, fourth grade student. “It was neat planting real food because I’ve only planted flowers before.”

During the event, students worked with Stewart to plant crops like bok choy, broccoli, arugula, and more.

“We are deeply passionate about providing rich learning experiences for students to see their in-class lessons through different perspectives in the garden,” commented Stewart. “In this way, we are collaborative partners for schools to both bring to life the core learning objectives of their curricula and offer an intentional agricultural learning space to cultivate knowledge and awareness of food production in a regenerative ecosystem.”

The activities were designed to reinforce science lessons on plant growth and ecosystems while also integrating math and literacy skills. The garden serves as a continuing educational tool, with students observing the growth and seasonal cycles of the plants throughout the school year.

Third grader, Erika exclaimed, “I liked learning about the veggies we planted and how to grow them with the water while creating the beds. Also, learning about companion planting. I’m curious to see what we do next with the veggies.”

The learning garden is part of a long-term initiative that will extend beyond Earth Science Week, continuing through future school years. It aligns with the PWCS Strategic Plan, particularly in the areas of learning and achievement, positive climate, and community engagement. By linking hands-on science experiences with academic goals, the garden project helps increase student success in reading and math while fostering environmental stewardship.

Polhamus concluded, “Our learning garden has grown and changed tremendously throughout the years, and we are exceptionally excited about this new opportunity to expand our perennial garden and plant a year-round vegetable garden providing nourishing food for our students, families, and the community.”

This collaboration provides a meaningful way for students to connect with earth science concepts, making learning both engaging and practical.