The Harper Garden Committee is responsible for the care and maintenance of Harper’s beautiful gardens…and we need you! SIGN UP HERE TO HELP!
The garden was created in 2003 when Kathy Hofschield, then a first grade teacher, received grants from both the Chicago Botanic Garden and the District 39 Educational Foundation. Harper students, parents, and teachers worked side by side with the horticulturists of the Chicago Botanic Garden to conceptualize and build the new space. Currently, the garden features six raised beds for planting fruits and vegetables, a cozy tree stump reading nook, a relaxing bridge over a Mexican Pebble “river,” and a beautiful hand-painted rock path through a wild prairie garden. The space has stayed true to Ms. Hofschield’s original goal to provide a sanctuary that encourages children to rest, reflect, and care for the environment.
Parent volunteers are absolutely vital to the success of the garden and the quality of each child’s experience while in it! Parents supervise and lead students in garden-related activities during lunch recess each Monday and Wednesday during the Fall and Spring. Mondays are garden activity days, where students create garden-themed crafts and learn about the science of nature. Wednesdays are for hands-on gardening. Students work in the garden planting, weeding, harvesting, and watering. Be prepared to get a little dirty!
In order to maintain the beautiful space and maximize learning time with students, the garden committee needs at least two parent volunteers each week from 11:00am – 12:15pm. No gardening experience is necessary, and younger siblings are welcome!
If you would like to volunteer in the garden, please follow this link to the SIGN UP GENIUS. If you have any questions, email the garden committee at garden@harperpto.com. We look forward to seeing you!
