The Armstrong Elementary School Garden was founded in 2014 by two experienced and passionate Master Gardeners who wanted to create a learning space for the school’s students. Funding to set up the garden was provided by several individuals and organizations, including the PTA, which continues to annually support the garden.

Alice’s Garden, named for Alice Armstrong who donated the land for the school in 1914, is located next to the school. It’s enclosed by a gated fence that surrounds a shaded outdoor learning space. The Garden includes tree trunks for stools, 12 raised beds for edible crops, a compost pile, and a garden shed.

To study pollinators, students plant perennials in several beds located around the school. They also plant and maintain annuals in raised beds by the front door of the school.

Students in grades kindergarten through 4th grade participate in a 30-minute garden class every other week. A Master Gardener developed the curriculum and Master Gardeners teach and assist with each class alongside parent volunteers. Each class includes a 10-minute lecture followed by three hands-on activities like planting, making seed balls and potpourri, tasting mint tea, and creating flower arrangements. The PTA and other groups provide plants and materials.

Lessons are tied to the life sciences curriculum with a focus on food production and nutrition, but students’ experiences in the garden also enhance other curricula.

Besides maintaining Alice’s Garden, Master Gardeners nurture beautiful beds at the front of the school. Overall, their work contributes to the charm of the school, adds beauty to the community, and teaches children about the magic of gardening.