8th Grade Classes Help Refresh Detroit Urban Garden

Revive and Thrive: Mill Creek 8th Grade Classes Help Refresh Detroit Urban Garden

On the second to last day of school this past June, several classes of Mill Creek eighth grade students traveled to Detroit to take part in a comprehensive cleanup initiative at several urban gardens. This outdoor service project was organized by Camp Restore Detroit, a local non-profit group that facilitates construction, human care, and environmental service projects in Detroit.

The Krabby Pattyz team (team names are student generated) worked together to prepare planting beds for the summer season through intensive weeding and strategic mulching. They trimmed back overgrown vegetation, which not only enhances the gardens' aesthetics but also is vital to its overall health. Some students also helped organize and inventory essential equipment for the urban garden program. After building up healthy appetites, both students and teachers relaxed and enjoyed a well-deserved break with a pizza lunch in a nearby park.

Extended learning opportunities such as this serve to expand the competencies being learned in the classroom. Volunteering with Camp Restore Detroit engaged Dexter students in community service and environmental stewardship and taught practical gardening skills. Students learned more about neighboring communities outside of Washtenaw County, and gained a better understanding of responsible citizenship.