Through a highly collaborative partnership between Project Green and the Rescue Union School District, and with the support of several generous grants, the seven RUSD school gardens are set to flourish even more this year.
This partnership has already yielded significant results, with Project Green successfully securing multiple grants to support the ongoing development and enhancement of the RUSD school gardens. Four schools — Lake Forest, Jackson, Rescue and Green Valley Elementary School — have each received grants from Raley's. This funding will be used for garden supplies, tools, materials and other essentials.
In addition, Marina Village Middle School and Lakeview Elementary School have been awarded significant garden expansion grants from the El Dorado Community Foundation. These funds will help expand and enrich the gardening spaces, providing even more opportunities for hands-on learning and environmental stewardship.
This collaborative effort extends beyond grant acquisition. In May, Project Green and RUSD worked together to fund a gazebo for Rescue's garden and contributed funds toward the construction of a new greenhouse at Jackson. These additions are enhancing the educational experiences for RUSD students, providing them with enriched outdoor learning environments.
Campus gardens offer benefits to students beyond the educational. Many choose to spend their time in the gardens during recess and lunch, enjoying the special, beautified areas they help create. The open grounds invite friends and individuals from all classes and programs to visit, socialize or do homework in a calm and quiet place.
The partnership engages students in various meaningful ways. This past spring, two Eagle Scout projects were completed in collaboration with RUSD, further enriching gardens at Jackson and Pleasant Grove.
Looking ahead, the district announced that its goal is to have all school gardens certified as Wildlife Habitats by this November. Marina Village and Pleasant Grove achieved this milestone last May.
"Our partnership with Rescue Union School District is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to invest in its future," shared Gina Johnston, the RUSD garden coordinator and founder of Project Green. "These gardens are not just about growing plants; they're about growing minds, fostering a love for the environment and creating spaces where students can learn and thrive. We are proud to be part of this journey, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact of these green spaces on our students and schools."
For more information on the value of school gardens and this partnership contact Johnston at projectgreenedc.@gmail.com or visit projectgreencommunity.org.
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