Special Needs Garden

I requested a small area between to buildings at our local middle school that was not being used. This area was in need of beautification. I began working with a teacher whose students were physically challenged. Together, she and I can up with the overall concept of what would need to be done. I built 5 planting beds made out of stone that were wheelchair height (raised beds) and filled them with dirt (easy for the students in wheelchairs to access). Then I built a covered potting shed (pictured)that would provide wheelchair bound students a chance to pot their own plants. Next, there were some air conditioning units sitting in the garden area. I took lattice work and build a decorative screen to place around them to hide the units. Top railing of screens were big enough to display potted plants that students had grown. I was able to gather donations from local business to help off set the cost of this project. Purchased/donated items included: lumber, nails, roofing materials, lattice, potting soil, and garden stones. I believe that I have made a positive impact because for the first time, these students have had an opportunity to "play in the dirt". They have been able to grow their own plants, vegetables, etc. This garden gave the students hands-on experience and the special needs teachers was able to work this directly into her lesson planning (which met state standards for the students). The students have enjoyed a place where they can start a seed/plant and grow it to completion. It has given them a sense of responsibility (they know they must go into the garden and weed/feed/water, etc.). Teacher reports that gardening is one of the highlights of their week. Parents have reported that their students love to come home with products that they have grown and share with their family. The garden has provided opportunities that otherwise these students would never have in the greenhouse (since the greenhouse is not wheelchair friendly). The garden is a place for the students to "feel just like everyone else" and forget their limitations.