As spring approaches, we will soon see flowers and plants emerge from the ground around O.H. Anderson (OHA) Elementary School. The curators of this beautiful space are students in the OHA Garden Club, led by special education teacher Amy Finden.
For four years, the OHA Garden Club has brought students together to build friendships, grow their passion for gardening, and beautify the school. The Club is open to all students and activities are during the school day to ensure all students can participate. The Club was originally started by Amy Finden with support from other special education teachers so that “everyone can find success in the garden.” Ms. Finden shared, “Being a part of a garden club during the school day is a wonderful way to get General and Special Education students working together. This benefits both groups and ensures access and equity for all of our learners!”
The OHA Garden Club’s work has included planting the gardens in front of the schools and increasing plant differentiation. The students are collaboratively responsible for the digging, planting, and mulch laying; the result of their efforts and devotion to the beautification of the community is a bright and lively space for all to enjoy. The Club also allows interested teachers to lead projects with financial support from grants that the OHA Garden Club has received.
The Club’s recent initiative has been reseeding the prairie behind OHA. In 2023, the Club received a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Conservation District to conduct a planned burn. A field burn rejuvenates and enhances native plant communities, reduces invasive species, and improves wildlife habitat. This spring, the students will work together to overseed and plant seed plugs in the space, adding a variety of species to the area that will bloom while students are in school.
This incredible group encourages individual growth, cultivates an inclusive learning environment for students, and allows friendships to bloom.
Written by Caroline Burge, Class of 2024 student at Mahtomedi High School and Mahtomedi Public Schools Communications Intern