By Aneri Rodriguez

School gardens play an important role in our school communities as a space for learning and connecting with nature. Yet, while 50% of California schools have dedicated garden spaces, fewer than 9% actively use them. 

Not on our watch! SEI has been a long supporter of garden education throughout the Bay Area, and is continuing to do so through their latest program: Energize Schools Garden Hub. ESGH is providing free services to elementary schools throughout San Francisco to help school communities engage with their garden. Teachers and school community members want to be empowered and excited to support their school gardens, and ESGH meets you where you are. We offer training workshops, instructional support, maintenance planning support, and access to garden curriculum and resources.

By Matilda Peck

On a hot day in August, I wandered through the San Francisco Botanical Garden, slightly lost. I’d come to meet the Climate Corps Education Outside (CCEO) Fellows, a group of passionate garden educators, in the midst of orientation for the 2023-2024 school year. Just as I was doubting my navigation, I heard laughter and excited voices up ahead and knew I’d come to the right place. The trail opened to a large clearing where thirty-six CCEO Fellows were gathering for lunch. ​