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Curtis Corner Middle School
South Kingstown Schools
Address:
301 Curtis Corner Road
Wakefield, RI 2879
US
Telephone: (401)360-1333
Email: jforbes@skschools.net
Website: http://skschools.net
Jean Forbes is a URI master gardener. She took over a garden in 1997 that was centrally located in the school. It was filled with overgrown hedges and poison ivy.
With the help of the school drama club and a few aides and teachers we started the cleanup in spring 1997.
In 1999 a parent volunteered services to design a plan. We raised money to pay for the plants then planted them. In 2001 we went from a junior high to a middle school. Having a homeroom for the first time ever, these 8th grade classes started to help weed and plant.
In 2003 a master gardener parent volunteered to help. We were asked to dress up the new sign area put in front of the building. The PTO said they would be glad to help with funds. Learning center collects Boxtops for Education, and much of the money we earn each year with that project helps funds the planting.
In spring 2007 the principal asked if we could dress up the big courtyard that is used for outdoor 8th grade graduation reception. We removed big overgrown ilex and landscaped. This turned out to be a huge project and wasn't completed until June 2008.
This present school year, 2008-2009, Mrs. Forbes' 8th grade learning center and Mrs. Light's 6th grade learning center are working together to maintain the gardens. So far this fall the combined groups have planted mums, kale, tulips and crocuses.
We are moving forward, and have started an organization called "SK Kids Go Green". The mission statement is: "To develop among students of all abilities an awareness of self and community by providing them with the knowledge and skills in an educational setting to be responsible stewards for the conservation of our environment."
Our objectives are:
Students understand the importance of our natural resources/health of the environment. Learn about the interdependence of nature and people. Determine what human impact has on the natural environment and learn how to maintain and preserve a healthy environment.
Students will learn real world skills. i.e. project management, language skills to enhance interpersonal communication through group work, math skills for design and planning.
Students will become aware of the vocations related to horticulture.
Students will develop self-esteem by growing their own food, creating a sense of identity through the project, taking on an ownership role for the garden, and developing an awareness of their place in the world.
Jean E. Forbes and Valerie Light
