NEW HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
2007-08
85TH AVENUE AT A STREET
EAST OAKLAND, CA
GARDEN DESIGN: ELDER WITH SCHOOL COMMUNITY
LIZ OZOL,the bold and visionary Principal, secured funding through USDA to enable the transformation of a barren side yard into a lush food garden. Maintenance and "love" was provided by an instructor and her After School Garden Club. Produce from the plot supplemented school lunches and snacks. Families were invited to harvest edibles for home consumption. This was a big plus in an area where the nearest supermarket was five miles away.
The angular ground plan was influenced by Aztec textile design, as well as a need to maximize planting area in a narrow space. The resulting maze-like design was a delight for the children.
Children participated in the design and construction. Since many of their parents worked in the landscaping trades, there were many great role models for the children to emulate. Most importantly they learned to love being in the garden.
2007-08
85TH AVENUE AT A STREET
EAST OAKLAND, CA
GARDEN DESIGN: ELDER WITH SCHOOL COMMUNITY
LIZ OZOL,the bold and visionary Principal, secured funding through USDA to enable the transformation of a barren side yard into a lush food garden. Maintenance and "love" was provided by an instructor and her After School Garden Club. Produce from the plot supplemented school lunches and snacks. Families were invited to harvest edibles for home consumption. This was a big plus in an area where the nearest supermarket was five miles away.
The angular ground plan was influenced by Aztec textile design, as well as a need to maximize planting area in a narrow space. The resulting maze-like design was a delight for the children.
Children participated in the design and construction. Since many of their parents worked in the landscaping trades, there were many great role models for the children to emulate. Most importantly they learned to love being in the garden.