Forestview Middle School students will have the opportunity to get their hands dirty this spring and summer in a new "outdoor" classroom.
The "Earth Diggers" youth garden at Forestview Middle School will be built with financial support from the Crow Wing Energized State Health Improvement Program grant award of $2,850 and Home Depot's grant award of $2,000. The Forestview Junior Master Gardener (JMG) program will be facilitated by the University of Minnesota Extension's Crow Wing County Master Gardener (MG) volunteers and Brainerd Community Education Garden Advisors throughout the year and for future years to come!
A school-wide contest to name the garden was held in the fall of 2014. Olivia Killoran, a Forestview 7th grader, created the winning garden name and logo. The contest was judged by Forestview Youth Advisory Council members and Master Gardeners Coralee Fox and Ken Lueken.
The FMS Earth Diggers JMG program is committed to helping young people become good gardeners and good citizens so they can make a positive contribution to their school, community and families. We appreciate the support offered to us by the Forestview administration and staff in providing support and space for the creation of the garden. Leadership, mentoring and educational opportunities offered to students, families and community members through the Junior Master Garden Earth Diggers program include:
• Hands-on experimental learning opportunities.
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• Emphasis on the benefits of garden to table practices.
• Promotes healthy food choices - increases interest in eating fruits and vegetables
• Brings together multiple generations bridging the age gap.
• Entrepreneurship skills and opportunities such as the farmers market.
• Fun, creative exploration.
The Garden Build Day is set for Saturday, May 16, 2015. Forestview students, families, staff, community volunteers, businesses and organizations are welcome to participate in the creation of the garden. We look forward to involving the entire community in the garden process. If you are interested in volunteering or just want more information about the Earth Diggers, please contact Lisa Stawarski, Brainerd Public Schools Community Education Youth Programs Coordinator at 218-454-6953.
