The Bates Middle School campus is home to a large native reflection garden in front of the school as well as several smaller native shrub and perennial mixed pollinator gardens and borders. The gardens have been created through the hard work of many students, staff, and community members. The gardens provide students, staff, and families places of quiet reflection, appreciation of nature, and opportunity to learn about native species and their interactions. Teachers regularly take their classes out to not only enjoy the gardens, but also to use them as learning tools. All departments take different lessons from the gardens and use them to enhance their teaching of science, social studies, art, and writing. Bates gardens also invite incredible biodiversity and life around the school that otherwise would be absent. These gardens need our help to continue to prosper. While students and community are always invited to participate in maintaining and adding to the gardens, Bates gardens still require regular attention and expertise that we as Master Gardeners can provide! Please contact Sara Ford at thefordsofglenn@yahoo.com to learn more and to volunteer to help! Organized work days will be offered on weekends to earn volunteer hours.
