Inter-Lakes Elementary School students learn about growing flowers, vegetables for cafeteria

MEREDITH — For many years, a living classroom has been an integral part of the fabric at Inter-Lakes Elementary School. Students incorporate potting, watering, and growing flowers and vegetables into their daily routine, fostering hands-on learning and a connection to nature. The 48-foot greenhouse supports various grade level next generation science standards from describing patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive to constructing an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction, to name a few. 

This year the school received a farm-to-school grant with a goal to contribute to the food supply in the cafeteria. Working with school food service staff, the students and teachers are planting a variety of vegetables (lettuce, green beans, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini) with a goal to have the harvest ready in June. 

Planting, watering, and tending to the gardens is truly a team effort, with classes, teachers, and students working together to make the task enjoyable and manageable. As they watch their seeds sprout, leaves unfurl, and fruit ripen, they experience the pride that comes with nurturing nature — gaining invaluable personal benefits along the way.

“They are so proud when they contribute and love telling others about their success. We can’t wait for them to see others enjoying their crops,” said Living Classroom Coordinator and ILES Teacher Kim Bannon. 

Although school ends in June, the growing season will continue throughout the summer and into the fall and the school invites family/student volunteers to assist over the summer. If interested, contact Kim.Bannon@Interlakes.org