Education in the Enchanted Garden

A Unique Learning Environment

Opportunities for learning abound in the Enchanted Garden. Students from schools throughout the city have used the garden as a resource, but for Kennedy teachers, the garden couldn't be more convenient. For years, teachers have brought their classes down to the garden to try activities that could never be accomplished within the regular classroom. To be able to leave the building, and be in the garden in less than five minutes, is a luxury teachers and students appreciate at Kennedy. As the garden is often locked during the day, it is advised that teachers check with Mr. Thoman, Mr. Wolfson, or any garden manager before bringing the class downstairs.

Our Educational Mission

The garden is not a successful school garden if it is not appreciated as an educational resource.Many teachers have asked what they can do with their classes when they visit. Hopefully this link will provide useful ideas for teachers in all subject areas. Elementary School teachers have had their students keep journals, in which they weekly post changes they have noticed with the seasons. English teachers have brought their students down to the garden to make observatons, and write about them in the form of poems. Yoga teachers have found the quiet and bucolic environment well suited for meditation and exercises. Most obvious, sceince teachers have used the garden for a variety of activities: mapping, taking samples of soil and water, plant identification, and keying trees to name some of the activities. The work on display in this link should be helpful for teachers looking for some inspiration.

Student Work

Below, you will find links to all kinds of student projects that have been created within the context of the Enchanted Garden. As of August of 2002, we have student artwork, brochures, and web pages online for your enjoyment. This really is supposed to be the meat of the site, and with time, it is hoped there will be more to show off here.