Starting a School Garden Program: Resources for Educators

An elementary school teacher in Cherokee County sought guidance for a new gardening/environmental club. The expert recommended two Georgia organizations: the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia (includes Outdoor Classroom Council) and the Georgia Endangered Plant Stewardship Network (based at the State Botanical Garden in Athens). Both offer workshops, materials, and educator networks.

Next Steps:

• Contact both organizations for starter kits.
• Apply for grants (Georgia Farm Bureau, local foundations).
• Involve parents and community volunteers.
• Start small: raised beds, native pollinator plants.

School gardens grow more than plants—they grow stewardship.