Fairfax elementary school gets state of the art learning garden

CENTERVILLE, Va. — With gloves and shovels, students at Centre Ridge Elementary School in Centreville, got their hands dirty planting a garden Thursday.  But not just any garden. This is a state of the art learning garden. The garden will give students an opportunity to learn about natural systems and about making healthy food choices.  Educators said the learning garden will also help students learn about math, social studies, language arts and more. 

Students who planted the garden are members of Eco Advocates at Centre Ridge. Centre Ridge's Principal, Dr. Jennifer Hertzberg is excited about the learning opportunities that the garden will bring. 

 "What I hope to be able to see with for our garden space, is to see our students be able to share their traditions, share their cultures, share what makes them special and also share their interest," she said. 

The garden was made possible through a grant from Cox Communications (Cox Enterprises) and Captain Planet Foundation. Captain Planet Foundation President and CEO Leesa Carter-Jones was on hand for the garden's premier. 

"So we're putting in a fall garden right now, things that can tolerate a little cold.  We're gonna have broccoli, we're going to have brussels sprouts, kale, collards, lettuce."

The school says there are also plans for a "pizza garden" where students will grow all of the toppings that go on a pizza. 

A small ceremony was held as the garden was planted.  Officials and community members attended including Virginia State Delegate Dan Helmer, Fairfax County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michelle Reid, along with members of the Fairfax County School Board. 

Students were also sent home with gift bags featuring wildflower seeds to grow at home. 

Do you have a news tip on this story or any other story? We want to hear from you. Tell us about it by emailing newstips@wusa9.com. 

MORE WAYS TO GET WUSA9

HOW TO ADD THE FREE WUSA9+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE

ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WUSA9.

For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "WUSA9" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE WUSA9 NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our daily WUSA9 Newsletter for top stories from WUSA9 curated daily just for you. Get content and information right now for can’t-miss stories, Commanders content, weather, and more delivered right to your inbox.