Parent Portal
GLADSTONE, NJ- On Wednesday, February 20, 2013, the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools (NJAIS), as part of their professional development, held a workshop and round table discussion entitled “Grow a School Garden”. Over 45 teachers from 35 schools participated in the discussion. Topics covered included roles and responsibilities in caring for a school garden, success stories and challenges schools face in starting a garden, and ways to integrate the garden into the curriculum.
Liz Cutler, Sustainability Coordinator and Pam Flory, Garden Coordinator, both from Princeton Day School, gave a presentation on ‘How to Build and Manage a Successful School Garden”. Participants eagerly listened to tips to help them start a garden in their own schools.
With 34-acres of wooded campus, The Willow School provided the perfect backdrop for this discussion, complete with a school garden and Garden-to-Table lunch program. Michael Chodroff, Middle School Science Teacher and chair of the Science Curriculum Committee at The Willow School, led a tour of the Willow Garden. Chodroff also explained how each grade at The Willow School plays an important role in the garden. Each November, the entire school community gathers together for Harvest Soup Day, making and serving soup using vegetables from the garden.
ABOUT The WILLOW SCHOOL
The Willow School, located on 34 wooded acres in Gladstone, N.J., educates students preschool through eighth grade, combining academic excellence with the joy of learning. Children develop a depth of understanding and intellectual curiosity that sets the stage for future academic success. The school emphasizes development of an ethical approach to all relationships, so students can grow to realize their full potential and confidence in their ability to effect positive change.
