RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - With support from the city’s Community Enhancement Fund, local Boy Scouts, and Parent Faculty Organizations, the school gardens at Sunrise Elementary and Robert J. McGarvey Elementary Schools continue to grow.                               

The garden at McGarvey Elementary School was built by an Eagle Scout, John Williams. Now, his younger brother, Gabe Williams, is working on coordinating the installation of a reading patio in the garden area, which will be complete with a raised herb garden.

“Our school mission is to create inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who take pride and responsibility in solving complex problems to create a more peaceful world. School gardens, with spaces for growing and enjoying, teaching and learning, are integral to our mission,” said Michael Gulden, Principal at Robert J. McGarvey Elementary School.

At Sunrise Elementary School, former student, Brandon Heiney, is also currently coordinating the construction of garden boxes.

“At Sunrise Elementary we strive to educate the whole child. We believe a school garden complements our curriculum and instruction with hands on science and math opportunities and it will support literacy as the children read and write about their garden projects,” said Martin Hock, Principal at Sunrise Elementary School.

Both of these projects were supported through the generosity of Parent Faculty Organizations and by the city’s Community Enhancement Fund grants. Learn more about the Community Enhancement Fund at CityofRanchoCordova.org/CommunityEnhancementFund.