Greenwood Elementary School’s Earth and Garden Club was the idea of Mrs. Erika Slowik and Mrs. Sarah Thorne-Locke. Both teachers enjoyed the passion of gardening and wanted to revive the garden in the courtyard of the school. At the time it was somewhat of an eyesore. Initially, Mrs. Slowik had started “The Knowledge Garden” with her classes and when Mrs. Thorne-Locke came on board shortly thereafter, they decided to start a club for students with similar outdoor interests.

The Earth and Garden Club is open to fourth and fifth grade students. Over the years, about 15-20 students have participated, but currently, more than 30 students are enrolled with several more on a waiting list! The purpose of the club is for students to get outside and spend time learning about and exploring nature.

To date, the group has completed several projects including completing arts and crafts, painting and photography, making bird feeders, and caring for native plants. Every spring and fall, the club is responsible for cleaning plant beds, plants seeds and new plants, and for the watering and tending of the gardens. This year, the club has planted five dwarf apple trees near the outdoor play space! Greenwood Elementary School now has it’s very own orchard! We are thankful that we have such wonderful stewards of our environment.