Gardening in an Urban Setting: Empowering Students

Claremont Middle School, Oakland, CA Claremont Middle School sits at a busy urban intersection, shops on one side, neighborhood on the other, and underneath one of the many freeways crisscrossing the East Bay. With space, in short supply, the staff and students have managed to create a lively school garden. Teams of students designed and installed a garden graced with whimsical art.

Gardens

When Claremont decided to have a school garden, they hired a garden coordinator and paid her 25% time to organize and oversee the effort. Aysha Massell took on the challenge of planning an open space along one side of the school. As the garden evolved, it has added many fun, attractive and unique elements, which was mostly designed and built by students.

Sustainability

Claremont Middle School is very fortunate to have a Principal who values school gardens and their potential for bringing academic subjects to life.

Ties to Curriculum

Aysha, the Garden Coordinator, comes to Claremont every two weeks. During her “on” week, she works with 8-10 classes, and primarily with 6th and 7th grade science, because they focus on life sciences. On the other hand, 8th grade focuses on chemistry, which is harder to link to the garden.