By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Tanque Verde Unified School District returned to session Wednesday with an expanded garden program now available to every elementary school student.
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The district’s garden science program allows students to work hands-on outdoors, outside the traditional classroom setting. Starting this school year, all elementary students will have access to the program.
Parents say nature-based learning is a draw
Cristal Bondi homeschooled her twins for two years before enrolling them at Tanque Verde Elementary School. She said the garden program aligned with the nature-focused curriculum she had been using at home.
“It’s good for them to understand, you know, what comes to your table — what it is you’re eating — what processes are behind it and how much work it is, so you appreciate what you have,” Bondi said.
Two students, Oliver and Bailey, said they already have a favorite crop.
“The peas — because when they’re not super ripe, and they taste good,” the students said.
Students test theories in the garden
Garden Science Teacher Deb Goepfrich said the program puts students in charge of their own learning. Whereas they often have to take tests in the classroom, in the garden, the roles are flipped.
“The kids get to be the test administrators. They’re the ones that are trying out things and seeing how things respond to different conditions,” Goepfrich said.
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Enrollment impact
As public school enrollment declines across Arizona, Tanque Verde’s specialized programs, including the garden, have helped the district’s numbers hold steady.
Oliver and Bailey’s mother, Natalie Kaplan, said the outdoor learning opportunity is a key factor for families.
“Parents really like that their kids have an opportunity to get outside and get their hands a little dirty, and it’s something a little different than being in a classroom,” Kaplan said.
Isabela Lisco is a Report for America corpsmember covering education solutions for 13 News. Her position is made possible through funding from Report for America and the Arizona Local News Foundation’s Arizona Community Collaborative Fund.
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