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School Gardening for SC Educators

Search for Excellence in Consumer or Commercial Horticulture

Amy Dabbs
Statewide School & Community Gardening Coordinator
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
CHARLESTON

Team Members: Snipes, Z1, Dabbs, A2, Whitener, P3
  1. Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent, Clemson Extension, Charleston, South Carolina, 29401
  2. Clemson Extension Agent, CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, Charleston, South Carolina, 29401
  3. 4-H Extension Agent, Clemson Extension, Greenville, South Carolina, 29601

Abstract

School Gardening for SC Educators is a key component of the Food Systems Change Initiative*, a multiagency partnership that supports farm-to-institution programming across the state of South Carolina. The initiative’s primary objectives are to: (1) increase the supply (or availability) of healthful, local foods, (2) increase the demand for healthful, local foods and ensure that they are accessible to at-risk youth, and (3) integrate experiential learning opportunities through outdoor garden classrooms to increase youths’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to math and science (including nutrition and health) concepts as well as to improve behavioral outcomes. 

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The primary obstacle to growing food in school gardens is lack of knowledge and experience among educators within the school community.  Clemson Extension agents responded by creating “School Gardening for SC Educators”.   The program combines horticulture training, ongoing technical support and equipment for schools to start and sustain successful school gardens.   The interdisciplinary team developed innovative approaches to overcome common school gardening obstacles such as poor soil, seasonality and food safety concerns.

Years of CES Service: 0