The students at Archway Classical Academy Scottsdale are committed to cultivating their hearts and minds through the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. Our well-rounded scholars expand their understanding of a virtuous life and love of knowledge each day on our campus.
Students in Exceptional Student Services (ESS) have identified disabilities and receive Special Education and related services through Individualized Education Plan's (IEP's).
At Archway Scottsdale, our ESS Team develops IEP's that ensure our students progress and have access to the general education curriculum.
My Project
Research compiled by the University of Colorado shows that gardening increases responsibility and interpersonal skills, enriches learning and science achievement, cultivates environmental stewardship, and supports positive physical, emotional, and mental health.
The purpose of the Outdoor Learning Garden is to provide an outdoor space that will be utilized as an extension of the classroom and a tool for interactive learning and emotional support.
Students will learn to tend to the garden, including planting, watering, and harvesting, all of which promote proper motor skills, self-confidence, and creativity. Initially, the garden will focus on herbs with the intent of engaging the five senses. Gardens provide a sensory experience without being overwhelming. As the garden develops, fruit and vegetables will also be introduced. Plants will grow in variety pots of different sizes, which can be moved in order to be accessible to accommodate for all students.
The garden is a wonderful way to provide context for lessons about life cycles, seasons, plant parts, and plant needs. However, the garden can be utilized for much more than science. The garden can be a beautiful and inspiring space where students can read books, write poetry or stories, or do a brain break activity. Additionally, the garden helps students appropriately reduce stress and frustration that otherwise may distract them from focusing in the classroom.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Conforto and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.