WESTFORD — Students at Nabnasset Elementary School have begun harvesting plants from their newly renovated garden in the school’s courtyard.
The renovation and sustainability project was made possible by a $16,190 grant from the Mass FRESH program, with contracting work done by O’Neil Landscape Design and Oak Hill Mulch.
The Farming Reinforces Education and Student Health program, managed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, supports public schools in expanding local food purchasing and educational initiatives.
The updated courtyard features several garden beds and a new shaded reading area for both students and teachers.
“We aimed to keep it natural but purposeful,” Christine Joy Berthold of Fresh Start Food Gardens told WestfordCAT. “We focused on the social-emotional benefits for all the students. I believe this focus helped us secure the grant.”
She added, “The kids’ reactions have been incredible. They are so curious.”
The grant also funded the removal of a tree and leveling of the space.
The first harvest was conducted by the inaugural second-grade class, taught by Megan Blanchard. The students picked lettuce, turnips, and peas, which they later enjoyed during lunch.
Blanchard highlighted the broader benefits of the new space.
“Teachers now have a place to come out and read. Any teacher can use it,” she said.
Joy Berthold noted, “Teachers have mentioned that on days they spend time here, their students are much more focused because they’ve had a chance to release some energy.”
The school plans to maintain the garden with help from student and parent volunteers.
Second-grade student Theo Wiczynski expressed hope for the garden’s future, saying it “will be forever” with community support.