As part of our Community Grants program, the Hastings Community Foundation awarded $600.00 to Zion Classical Academy to purchase building materials, soil, and outdoor storage for their Garden Classroom. “The students love to garden! They love having garden dinners of leaf lettuce, radish leaves, and icicle radish! This project has made such a difference in the atmosphere of our school and student body” Pearlisa Martinez, After School Care Coordinator / Paraeducator at Zion Classical Academy.

This grant has allowed students to:

· Watch food grow from seeds to harvest

· Taste fresh produce, hand picked by students

· Learn about being mindful in the garden

· Arrange a floral bouquet

· Learn about the benefits of composting

· Discover the importance of pollinators

The garden’s hand-on learning approach of teaching gives the students "that are not in touch with nature, a chance to learn while getting their hands dirty” Martinez said. “It has been such a blessing!”