Introduction to a Greener Tomorrow
Houston – Students at H.C. Carleston Elementary in Pearland received a surprise that promises to grow into a lasting educational legacy – their own school garden complete with raised beds and an array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. This project was made possible through the partnership of H&H Landscape Design and the Houston Home and Garden Show, transforming an outdoor space into an interactive learning environment.
Building Community Through Growth
The team from H&H Landscape Design spent four and a half hours constructing the garden beds, demonstrating their commitment to community service. Their recent efforts include installing water wells for 700 people across three villages in Colombia, showcasing their dedication to giving back. “It’s absolutely phenomenal because we love to give back to the community continuously,” said Hubert Escobar, owner of H&H Landscape Design. “These students will be able to grow and eat from this garden. It’s going to be outstanding,” Escobar added.
Educational Benefits Take Root
Principal Amy Etchberger emphasized the garden’s educational value beyond traditional classroom learning. “It’s heartwarming to see everybody growing together, growing friendships together, and building Pearland proud,” she said. The garden provides real-world, hands-on experience for students to feel the soil and eat the fruits and vegetables they grow. Students immediately began planting various crops, including basil, blueberries, and other produce that will eventually supplement school meals.
A Dream Come True for Students
For students like Kaitlin, who lack gardening opportunities at home, this experience is particularly meaningful. “I’ve always wanted a garden because we don’t have a backyard since we live in an apartment,” Kaitlin said. The garden represents a chance for these students to learn about gardening and nutrition in a practical way.
Sustainable Impact
The garden project is more than just an educational tool; it also has economic and environmental benefits. Students recognized its potential to reduce food costs for the school cafeteria while providing fresh produce. Dee Brown, who helped coordinate the initiative, highlighted the project’s broader impact. “This is what it’s all about, giving back to our Houston community. We are Houston proud. We are Pearland proud,” she said.
Supporting the Garden’s Growth
To help H.C. Carleston Elementary keep its garden growing and inspire the next generation of gardeners, the school has created an Amazon Wishlist with a list of needed items. By supporting this initiative, individuals can contribute to a sustainable legacy of hands-on learning and environmental education in the Pearland school district.
Conclusion
The school garden at H.C. Carleston Elementary is a shining example of community spirit and educational innovation. Through the hard work of H&H Landscape Design and the support of the Houston Home and Garden Show, students now have a unique opportunity to learn about gardening, nutrition, and sustainability. As the garden continues to grow, it will serve as a testament to the power of community-driven projects and their impact on the next generation of learners.
