The Oak Grove Garden Program

Now part of the school’s Farm to School Committee, The Oak Grove Garden Program began in 2009 with the leadership of Jack McKiernam who instigated the first raised beds being built. Central to the garden program is the annual Harvest Supper event, (going on its 7th year) has become a special part of our school culture where classrooms (in collaboration with the Brattleboro Food Coop & Food Connects) prepare & serve dishes including OG garden grown produce. This winter we even started growing sprouts & herbs in the classrooms.

This past fall 2019 we started preparing the soil for our new main garden space & native woodland plant garden. Our current planting plan expands upon started projects including the Wangari Maathai tree & now the 3 Trillian Tree Campaign with planting oak tree seedlings with (Rolf Parker-Houghton) & Asian pears (donated by Edible Brattleboro) into a mixed fruit orchard & integrating native, wildlife & pollinator plants.

The Oak Grove Garden Program gives us the opportunity to diversify & enliven our school grounds as a beautifully designed green space for nourishing healthier hearts, bodies & minds. With this program, we are growing a sustainable community resource that conveys a sense of wellbeing & sparks & inspires creativity.

Summer Garden Art Series

I'm happy to be announcing this & so appreciate this opportunity to be collaborating with all mentioned below & looking forward to enjoying the fully transformed Oak Grove Gardens with you all!

This summer, alongside the open garden hours at schools, students and parents will be able to participate in a variety of art activities in school gardens. The River Gallery Art School, The In-Sight Photography Project, and The Human Art of Play will all be offering fun art and garden-based activities throughout the summer. Create a bug poster, learn about cyanotype art, and join in on circus yoga. All activities are free and supplies are provided. Students must be accompanied by parents who are welcome to join in the fun! The Summer Garden Art Series is a collaboration between Food Connects, RiseVT, WSESD, and Tara Gordon, summer garden coordinator.