Inspired by the Eco Schools framework through the National Wildlife Federation, we began developing a pollinator garden last August. We intentionally chose a narrow strip of compacted soil filled with rocks and weedy grass near the parking lot.  It doesn't sound like a wise choice for a garden spot, but increasing biodiversity is both a serious undertaking and a labor of love.  Transforming this space into a learning garden will not happen quickly. That, in itself, is part of the lesson.  We want our students and visitors to understand that lasting change is slow and deliberate. This process is often physically demanding and requires cooperation and shared commitment.

You may notice that the garden is not particularly polished, but if you look closely, you will see that change is happening!  Native plants and shrubs have survived their first harsh winter. Recycled materials are being repurposed throughout the space instead of entering a landfill, and rich soil is slowly developing from lunch scraps deposited faithfully into the compost.

What was once a rocky, unused area is becoming an accessible outdoor classroom—a place where biodiversity can flourish and where students, families, and community members can gather to learn and reconnect with the natural world.

This year, we intentionally developed a trail system through the forest to limit disruption while still allowing access to outdoor classroom spaces. We are not a strict “Leave No Trace” school. Anyone who has read Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv understands why. We want students to use their senses, explore, and truly connect.

Reciprocity guides our process. We continually ask ourselves: How do we build relationship without taking too much?

Some of our trees are very old, dating back to colonial times. The diversity of species provides rich habitat for birds and wildlife. Students study forest succession—remembering that this land once functioned as a dairy farm during the Civil War—along with mycelium networks, fungal growth, and the complex systems that sustain a healthy forest.

The wetlands on our property are precious. Making its way to the Rappahannock, the wetlands, seepage areas and small streams surrounding the campus support a wide range of amphibians and reptiles, which in turn contribute to the larger ecosystem that sustains foxes, coyotes, opossums, raccoons, skunks, and deer, just to name a few of our neighbors.

We are currently developing an erosion control plan to protect these critical waterways from runoff and ensure their long-term health.  Want to join us in developing a plan?  Contact kathy@bromptoncommunityschool.org.