Media Release
Vanneza Rivera
Sales & Marketing
Fernandina Mulch & Stone
January 17, 2015 11:00 a.m.
Second grade teacher, Janelle Gelston, has incorporated a sustainable garden into her curriculum by applying math and science in a hands on setting. Located at 1600 South 8th Streeet, the Fernandina Beach Christian Academy garden is situated around their parking lot with 4 raised beds, 2 rain barrels, drip irrigation, and a small garden shed.
Students learn how to plan and calculate proper plant spacing, transplanting, and seed harvesting. The garden is also used to teach students the importance and effects of ph in the soil and how to alter ph through natural remedies, such as composting and soil amending.
In addition to math and science, students learn patience, disappointment through trial and error, observation, and problem solving skills as the seasons change.
They established their first raised bed back in March of 2014 and have since added 3 more that are partially completed. Through the help of mostly parent volunteers, they have been able to maintain their garden. They plan to complete their other 2 raised beds by spring for their growing class size.
However, with a growing garden comes growing needs and responsibilities. If you would like to assist with watering, garden maintenance or donate materials, please contact Janelle Gelston at 904-321-2137 or you can reach her at [email protected]
This is wonderful! This teacher needs an “attaboy”.