Thanks to the dedication of Tod Persellin and Tamara Ross, the TSW instructional specialist, Sahuaro’s previously neglected garden area is being brought back to life. What was once a forgotten space is becoming a hands-on learning environment, teaching students about not only plants, but also responsibility and the importance of teamwork.

Persellin and Ross started the project a few weeks ago by evaluating the area and cleaning it of trash, rocks, and unnecessary dirt. After cleaning, they improved the existing metal garden beds by filling them with fresh soil in preparation for planting. They then headed to a gardening store to gather inspiration for what to include in the space. Once they had a solid idea of what they wanted in the new garden, they headed to another store and bought flowers and herbs.

A key feature of this new and improved garden is the implementation of an olla system, a self-watering method used to conserve water and time. The olla is a clay pot buried in the soil, and once filled to the top, it slowly releases water from its pores. This technique will prevent anyone from having to come on campus during breaks or over the weekend to tend to the garden while ensuring it is being maintained.

While this method won’t last over the summer, that’s not a worry for these two. “We kind of planned for what we’re growing right now to be finished at the end of the school year, and then in the fall, we’ll start again,” shared Mr. Persellin.

For this school year, the garden is growing different types of flowers, along with cilantro, peppers, and other herbs. The pair plans to integrate gardening into a cooking project, showing the students how they can realistically utilize a garden. Currently, the goal is to make tacos out of the ingredients grown.

Once school starts back up again in the fall, there is hope to expand the program. “Not just for Ex-Ed students,” shared Tamara Ross, “but for anyone interested in agriculture and hands-on learning.” Along with this, there is potential for a gardening club and an opportunity for other teachers to collaborate on the project.

This garden is more than just a way to beautify the school, it also serves as an educational tool. This is a great way to develop hands-on life skills for the students in the exceptional education (Ex-Ed) program. Gardening allows students to work with their hands, which improves fine and motor skills. “In all those different modalities of learning, hands-on is a really powerful way for students to learn that they can do anything,” said Mr. Persellin.

One of the most challenging aspects of this project will be keeping it clean from trash. To address this, they plan to put signs up: PICK UP YOUR TRASH! They may also add additional trash cans around the area to encourage those who eat nearby to participate in proper waste disposal. If you or anyone you know eats lunch by the garden, please remember not to litter. Those who work on this project take great pride, so please respect the area!