In preparation for Earth Day, members of the Environmental Club, the football team, and other student volunteers joined forces to clean up the garden beds at Shaker High School’s community food garden.
The Shaker Garden, located in the high school courtyard, has been a focal point for promoting healthy eating habits and sustainability, but the garden beds were in need of some care and attention after the winter season, and students were eager to pitch in to make a difference.
“Food is such an important part of our daily lives, and we want to teach the kids where their food comes from,” said Amber Cost, Chemistry and Food Science Teacher at SHS.
With shovels, rakes and gloves in hand, the student volunteers rolled up their sleeves and got to work. They spent about an hour pulling weeds, clearing debris and preparing the soil for planting. In May, they will plant
“This Shaker Garden is so central to our school community,” said Leila Adelstein. Adelstein is a junior and serves as president of Shaker’s Environmental Club. “I love having the sun on my back. It’s just so beautiful outside. I love being outside and getting to be in nature.”
The event was not limited to members of the Environmental Club, as students from various other clubs and sports teams also participated. The Football Team, in particular, showed great enthusiasm and dedication, with players getting their hands dirty and contributing to the clean-up effort.
With Earth Day just around the corner, these students set a shining example of environmental stewardship and community collaboration. Their efforts will continue to bear fruit in the school community food garden for years to come.
“This is one of many ways we can show our dedication and commitment,” Leila said. “It’s crazy how these garden beds are gonna grow from just dirt and it’s very rewarding to know your hard work will pay off.”