Class "Gets Growing" via Park Seed Contest
My colleagues over in the eCommerce Department have just announced the winner of their most recent contest, called "Get My Class Growing." They tell me it was the toughest contest they've ever had to judge! You see, they received a boatload of heartwarming essays from students, teachers, and parents explaining why their classroom should be selected to receive a Park Seed gift certificate. Several winners were selected, including one overall winner...DRUMROLL PLEASE...
Fremont Middle School in Pomona, California!
A caring and generous teacher at Fremont took time to submit an essay on behalf of the school's Earth Club. The club was formed and is led by Mr. Eddie Neumann. He has apparently recruited a significant number of students into the club, where they participate in recycling, organic gardening, and preserving natural resources.
The winning essay goes on to say,
"The students at Fremont Middle School have taken pride in an impressive garden area. This area is approximately 30' x 100' and as mentioned, is all organically maintained by the students. Obviously, the learning experience for the students is priceless. The students are learning lifelong skills and values. "
We are pleased to send Mr. Neumann and his club a $150 gift certificate from Park Seed, so that Mr. Neumann doesn't have to dip into his own pockets to keep the program growing. And of course, we salute them for putting a "green" spin on the project, focusing on organic gardening techniques. Park Seed has long championed the organic approach. All of our seed are untreated and we never sell genetically modified seed. And we do carry a wide array of seed that are certified organic.
It is my sincere hope that the Earth Club folks will send me pictures and articles about what they do with their winnings! And likewise for the other runner-up grade-level winners and contest participants. I love seeing what young gardeners can do, and hearing what they have to say about their experiences in the garden. Thank you to everyone who submitted an essay. And keep in touch--let us know what's growing on at your school!
