Students at Wright City Middle School are getting their hands dirty in a new garden project initiated by teacher Cody Bair. The garden aims to provide students with the opportunity to grow fresh produce while learning about biology, ecology, and sustainability.

The collaborative project involves Jolynn Hambach from the Missouri Extension Center, which provided the garden beds, and teachers Donnie Meadows and Jessica Twellman. Meadows contributed soil, a wheelbarrow, and shovels, while Twellman created a greenhouse to give the plants a head start.

The garden serves multiple purposes, including hands-on learning experiences, promoting healthy eating habits, and providing a space for relaxation and stress relief. In the future, the garden may also supply fresh produce for the school and the community.

Students will use the garden to learn about plant life cycles, ecosystems, biodiversity, environmental sustainability, nutrition, and botany. The garden will also be incorporated into lessons across various subjects, including core classes.

Students have been actively involved in the planning, building, and planting stages of the garden and will continue to be responsible for its maintenance and care. This hands-on approach not only teaches them about gardening but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the project.

"It's amazing to see how this initiative is creating a unique learning experience for students and fostering a deeper connection with nature emphasizing the importance of the project,” Bair said.

The Wright City Middle School garden is an example of how schools can integrate outdoor learning experiences to enhance student education and well-being.