"I believe our garden is successful because it can easily accommodate the diverse interests and needs of our students and faculty. For some, the garden provides a classroom in which to learn about ecology or find inspiration for a short story, for others it is a nursery where one can develop and practice their horticultural skills, and for many it simply provides a quite space for introspection and reflection."

Keys to Success

• The habitat is located close to the Science classrooms
• Science classes are outdoors using the space a lot, integrating it into their curriculum
• Other teachers on campus use the habitat for Art, Reading, Life Skills, etc.
• Summer watering calendar
• Garden clean up days on Saturdays throughout the school year

Challenges

• Summer maintenance
• Teacher turnover
• Maintaining water levels in the pond