The flowers, plants and vegetables aren’t the only things growing at Jackson Avenue. So are the learners as they focus on cultivating environmental stewardship through hands-on garden and food education while learning valuable skills in the new Jackson Learning Garden.

Fourth grade learners are working with STEM teacher Alyssa Theofanis on a variety of activities in the garden, including planting, caring for and harvesting the vegetables and flowers that were planted in the spring. They are also caring for the area by raking and composting leaves and keeping the beds and pond area clean and free of litter or debris.

The learners are also working with the food services staff and facilitating a composting program using waste from the cafeteria and around the school. When it’s ready, the compost goes back into the soil where it’ll help their next crop flourish.

In addition, our art students are collaborating to create rotating exhibits that will be on display in the Learning Garden making this an exciting STEAM learning opportunity that all students can participate in and benefit from.

We are #MineolaProud of our educators and students who are literally getting their hands dirty while learning more about the environment that sustains us.

Date Added: 10/30/2024