Module Description:

          Join us for "Garden Grooves," a unique collaborative initiative between Global Lighthouse Studios, Green Bronx Machine, and the David Z Foundation, aiming to empower students through music and global connections.

Global Lighthouse Studios will work with students as they immerse themselves in the renowned Green Bronx Machine curriculum—a dynamic program that integrates the cultivation of vegetables with academic instruction across all subjects, creating a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for students. Students gain hands-on experience in exploring, discovering, and creating their own ecosystems. Through this innovative curriculum, students will not only learn about urban agriculture but also explore the creative process of composing and performing music inspired by their experiences.This program is rooted in empathy and celebrates the dedication of teachers, students, families and communities, showcasing what is achievable when people unite for the well-being of children.

One of the highlights of this program is the opportunity for students to write and produce a song that reflects their journey and learnings. Students will be keeping a Healthy Habits journal and use their experience as an inspiration to write the song.  This song will not only showcase their talents but also serve as a powerful expression of their connection to global themes of sustainability, community well-being.  

By immersing students in music, growing healthy food, and fostering community engagement, we create a holistic approach to well-being. Healthy eating fuels the body and brain, providing essential nutrients that support cognitive function and emotional stability. Music, with its therapeutic qualities, reduces stress, enhances mood, and improves mental health. Together, these activities support physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, helping students lead more balanced and harmonious lives.

This program has just begun and we are excited to bring together music and the arts, gardening, healthy eating and well-being! 

Course Content:

Students will immerse themselves in the Green Bronx Machine curriculum, where they'll grow their own tower gardens and learn about the power of plants. This hands-on experience will allow them to connect and draw parallels between contemporary challenges and the benefits of urban agriculture.

Through the gardening process, students will explore issues such as food security, health, and environmental sustainability. They will document their journey in Healthy Habits journals, reflecting on the importance of healthy eating and its impact on overall well-being. Seeking input from experts in urban agriculture and nutrition, students will gain deeper insights into the interconnectedness of health, food systems, and community well-being.

In addition to their gardening work, students will engage in the creative process of composing and performing music inspired by their experiences. They will write and produce their own song, drawing on their gardening journey and their reflections on sustainability and community. This song will serve as a powerful expression of their learning and their connection to global themes.

Next, students will synthesize their findings and creative work to showcase their journey in a Harvest Party celebration.  This celebration will include their tower gardens, Healthy Habits journals, and the song they created that will be professionally produced by the David Z Foundation.  The team at David Z will come to the school location and film the music video with the students and then will produce a music video for global distribution on youtube.   By presenting their work, students will emphasize the continuity between their learning experiences and the broader themes of sustainability and well-being.

Through "Garden Grooves," students will develop a holistic understanding of how gardening, music, and healthy eating contribute to personal and community well-being. They will cultivate empathy, creativity, and a sense of global responsibility, bridging their hands-on experiences with broader societal challenges and solutions. This program celebrates the power of combining music and the arts, gardening, healthy eating, and well-being, empowering students to make a positive impact on their world.

• Classroom Tower Gardens

• Healthy Habits Journal

• Songwriting

• Ecosystem Models

• Urban Farming Models

• Climate Change Impact Models