the creation of a calming space in our school that connects nature with everyday student life

About Maple L.

My name is Maple and I’m a junior at Emma Willard. My goal for these next two years is to create a garden at Emma. I want to create a peaceful space that is a safe haven from this busy school. Students can come and work in my garden as an outlet or for community service. This would be beneficial for our community because being outside could help improve student’s mental health and have a beautiful space for students to pick flowers, sit in the grass, and enjoy everything that nature offers us. My mother is a professional gardener, and this project is inspired by her. As a boarding student, one of the main things I miss from my home is my garden. Almost everyday my mom will send me pictures of new blooms, strange bugs, or vegetables that have finally ripened. I am filled with a longing for home whenever I see a flower on campus, but almost every plant on campus is for looking, not touching. When I go outside I want to pick flowers and sit in a space that isn’t just an empty field. Having a flower garden at Emma Willard would solve this problem. I want to share the joys of gardening with my fellow students.