Course in Edible Schoolyards Offered to Educators and Parents

Manchester, Conn. (October 12, 2015) –Edible schoolyards have increased in popularity throughout the U.S. and serve as an opportunity for children to learn about water-use, food-scarcity and community engagement while gaining  gardening and teamwork skills . MCC’s Continuing Education course, “Starting an Edible Schoolyard,” will be held Tuesday, October 27, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. for one session. This credit-free course is open to parents, educators, school administrators and members of the community who would like to learn more about how an edible schoolyard can positively impact children and families. The course will also outline the practical skills needed to get started.

“When students get their hands into soil, plant crops, and watch their food grow, they take pride in their work, focus on their learning, and begin to make healthier choices in their diet,” according to instructor Bettylou  Sandy. “Children are intrigued when they have grown their own food, which inspires them to taste foods they may never have been open to before.”

She added, “We will cover the general concepts for starting a community garden program in public, private and home schools; details of the curriculum and its application; and resources for further assistance.”  Learning includes subjects that may surprise parents and educators, such as math, geography and even social sciences. Teamwork is an added skill students will develop through their participation in the project.

To register for “Starting an Edible Schoolyard,” call 860-512-3232 and reference CRN 32043. For questions, call the division of Continuing Education information line at 860-512-2800 or visit page 40 of the fall Credit-Free programs catalog.

Ms. Sandy is an accredited organic land care professional through the Northeast Organic Farmers Association (NOFA). She is credited as the founder and coordinator of the MCC community garden, the Spruce Street Neighborhood community garden and the Bennet Academy edible schoolyard program that was instituted in 2010. She is a member of the board of directors for both the Connecticut Community Gardening Association and NOFA.

Students interested in credit-bearing degree programs can learn more by visiting the MCC website or by calling admissions at 860-512-3210.