Our Gardens
Vegetable Gardens
Students actively cultivate and manage our vegetable gardens, learning essential agricultural skills and the joys of growing their own food. These gardens supply fresh produce for our homecooked, school-wide meals, allowing students to appreciate the farm-to-table process and the importance of nutritious, seasonal eating.
At Illumination Education, our gardens are more than just beautiful landscapes; they are dynamic, hands-on learning environments where students engage deeply with nature. Our school features a variety of gardens including vegetable, flower, butterfly, rain, herb, and sensory gardens, each designed to teach and inspire.
Flower Gardens
Our flower gardens are student-designed, with each child choosing their favorite flowers and the ideal locations for planting. This creative freedom fosters a sense of ownership and pride, while also teaching about plant care and the beauty of biodiversity.
Butterfly Gardens
These gardens are crafted to attract and sustain butterflies, providing students with firsthand experience of life cycles and ecosystems. Through observing and caring for these gardens, students learn about the vital role of pollinators in our environment.
Rain Gardens
Designed for water conservation and ecological support, our rain gardens help manage runoff and support local wildlife. Students participate in every step, from planning and planting to ongoing maintenance, gaining practical knowledge about sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Herb Gardens
Students grow a variety of herbs that are used in school meals, learning about the flavors and medicinal properties of different herbs. This experience ties into lessons on botany and natural medicine.
Greenhouses
Our greenhouses extend the growing season and allow for year-round gardening. Students learn about controlled environments and the science of plant growth, gaining insights into innovative agricultural practices.
Composting and Soil Health
Students participate in a composting program, learning to compost organic waste from the kitchen and gardens. This teaches about recycling nutrients, soil health, and reducing waste, demonstrating sustainable practices and the nutrient cycle.
Native Plant Gardens
In our native plant gardens, students learn about local ecology and the importance of preserving indigenous species. These gardens support local wildlife and provide habitats for native polli
Sensory Gardens
Our sensory gardens engage all five senses with a variety of plants, textures, and scents. These gardens are particularly beneficial for younger children and those with sensory processing needs.
Student Involvement
At Illumination Education, students are deeply involved in every aspect of our gardens. They select plants, design layouts, and take on responsibilities for daily care. This hands-on approach not only teaches gardening skills but also instills values of responsibility, teamwork, and creativity. Through seasonal growing projects, students learn what plants thrive in different seasons and the benefits of eating seasonally.
Diverse Farming Methods
Our curriculum includes various farming techniques such as traditional farming, hydroponics, and permaculture. Students explore these methods through practical experiments and projects, understanding the science behind each technique and its applications in sustainable agriculture.
Farm-to-Table Program
Students participate in the full cycle from planting seeds to preparing meals. This includes lessons on nutrition, cooking skills, and the environmental impact of food choices, expanding the farm-to-table concept.
Community and Meals
The produce from our gardens plays a central role in our school meals, which are prepared with the help of students. This integration emphasizes the connection between growing food and healthy eating habits. Our gardening activities extend to the community, inviting parents and local residents to join in workshops and group meals, fostering a strong, supportive community network.
Garden-Based Art Projects
Students create sculptures, paintings, and other artworks using natural materials from the gardens. This blends creativity with nature education, providing a rich, multi-sensory learning experience.
Wellness and Mindfulness
Our gardens are spaces for wellness and mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, and quiet reflection. These activities enhance students' mental well-being and deepen their connection to nature.
At Illumination Education, our gardens are thriving ecosystems that enhance learning, foster community, and promote sustainability. By engaging in these hands-on experiences, students not only gain practical skills but also develop a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.