Kool Kids Grow Farms Are Growing Futures at Deerwood Elementary!

Discoveries in Our Community Garden

At Deerwood Elementary, the garden club is more than just a patch of green. It is a vibrant learning space where students engage with nature and sustainability through hands-on activities. This spring, the students at Kendall Rae Johnson’s Kool Kids Grow Garden are exploring three key areas of sustainable agriculture: composting, planting seasonal crops, and understanding pollinators. These lessons connect classroom science with real-world environmental stewardship, helping students build knowledge and confidence while caring for their community.

Learning Through Composting

Composting is the foundation of healthy soil and sustainable gardening. At Deerwood Elementary, students are discovering how to transform everyday food scraps and organic waste into rich, fertile soil. They observe the natural process of decomposition, learning about the tiny microorganisms that break down materials and recycle nutrients back into the earth.

This hands-on experience teaches students why compost is essential for plant growth. They see how nutrient-rich soil supports stronger roots and healthier plants, making the garden more productive without relying on chemical fertilizers. By participating in composting, students also develop a deeper respect for waste reduction and environmental responsibility.

Planting for Spring Success

Spring is the perfect season for planting, and the garden offers a living classroom for students to learn about crop cycles and plant care. The young gardeners at Deerwood Elementary start with seeds, carefully planting them in rows with proper spacing to ensure each plant has room to grow.

They learn how Georgia’s spring climate affects which crops thrive, experimenting with watering schedules and observing how plants respond to sunlight and soil conditions. This process helps students understand the importance of patience and attention in gardening. As seedlings sprout and mature, students gain confidence in their ability to nurture living things and contribute to the garden’s success.

Understanding the Role of Pollinators

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects play a crucial role in food production. At the Kool Kids Grow Garden, students study these creatures and their impact on the ecosystem. They plant pollinator-friendly flowers to attract these insects, creating a supportive habitat that encourages biodiversity.

Through this work, students learn how pollinators help plants reproduce and produce fruits and vegetables. This connection highlights the importance of protecting pollinator populations for a healthy food system. By fostering awareness and care for these insects, the garden becomes a space where students appreciate the delicate balance of nature.

Commitment to Natural Practices

Deerwood Elementary’s garden recently earned recognition as a Certified Naturally Grown garden. This certification reflects the school’s dedication to natural gardening methods that avoid synthetic chemicals and promote environmental health. Every activity in the garden aligns with this commitment, from composting to planting and supporting pollinators.

This approach not only benefits the garden but also teaches students valuable lessons about sustainability and community health. They learn that growing food naturally supports the environment and provides healthier options for their families and neighbors.

A Living Laboratory for Growth

The garden at Deerwood Elementary is a dynamic space where science, sustainability, and curiosity come together. It offers students a chance to explore real-world problems and solutions through direct experience. This spring, the lessons in composting, planting, and pollination are helping students develop skills that extend beyond the garden.