At my school, we have a courtyard which has long been neglected and so this past fall, I wrote a grant to "beautify" the space. As the At-Risk Coordinator for my building, I wanted those "risky" kids to participate in an experiential learning opportunity--using Math in "real" life. The boys are 4th and 5th graders who don't necessarily love the core subjects of school, but they are all good kids who will now be "owners" of something very special and active members of our learning community. The plan includes a pond and waterfall (which is installed by THEM next week), a peace pole, benches, a butterfly garden and a space for growing flowers and/or veggies. It will be an on-going project and when they graduate from our school after 8th grade's completion, perhaps we'll have nurtured a landscape architect, a Math teacher, or best of all--happy learners.

Congratulation on the grant! Looks like a huge success story! Your new camera? Great shots! DancingDolphin · 2008-05-28: 23:19

I'm sure that your seeds are planted well. Merci. maharba · 2008-05-28: 23:38

Very nice post and a wonderful project!! relee · 2008-05-29: 07:36

Fantastic idea!! Congrats on the Grant!! Can't wait to see the finished new improved courtyard!! SheriJ · 2008-05-29: 14:05

You are one of the teacher (educators) all children need. Oh by the way can I hire them? Great photos. Queen911 · 2008-05-29: 22:24

That's so cool! dzevans · 2008-05-30: 00:56

I'm glad to see "at risk" kids getting attention. My oldest was one of those with dyslexia. (He's 34 now). The schools had plenty of programs for "gifted" but hardly anything for "at risk". I used to hate the word "gifted"! oldbabe · 2008-05-30: 19:53

Awesome project bamommy · 2008-06-03: 08:57

oh my kids!! i was going to say 'my how they've grown' - but honesty, the ones i recognize don't look much different - haha. what a great idea and a great project, and having known some of them - i know they will be so proud of themselves :-) lexlevans · 2008-06-05: 23:12