What's Growing at Roots & Wings - October 2022

At the beginning of the summer myself, Yatte and Ken had an opportunity to spend some time at Beyer Early Childhood Preschool. Previously I had met with Principal Blackwell to discuss how we could use Blackhawk Courts Farm as a living classroom for both her students and teachers. The reality of having the entire student body visit the farm soon became unrealistic. 

Instead we brought the farm to them! We spent 5 days, 8 hours each day, over a two week  span teaching the children about the life cycle of a plant. We set up in the hallway of the school and rotated every 45 minutes allowing each classroom an opportunity to visit with us. Each child had an opportunity to transplant a herb plant (Basil or Cilantro) into a container and take it home with them. Finally, they all received a Roots & Wings sticker to wear as members of our team. The kids were so engaged, excited, and willing to sample a herb they may not have ever tasted. Throughout the day the kids would pass us in the hallway, proudly wearing their stickers, and enthusiastically waving to us and saying “Hi Farmer Tedd, hi Farmer Ken!” 

We had a wonderful time and since many of the kids live in Blackhawk Courts, we were able to build new relationships. In the end we made over 500 new friends, and planted over 600 seedlings in preparation for the kids to take home.

While I was there I witnessed the love, respect, and attentiveness the teachers showed to all the kids. I walked away feeling in awe of the important role teachers play in our lives. Thank you Principal Blackwell and the staff for all you do!

- Tedd Snowden

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