Independence Elementary PTA, a non-profit organization, is breaking ground on a Community Garden at Independence Elementary School on Earth Day, April 22.

The event will take place on the grounds located on the East side of the main entrance.

Elementary school gardens have been shown to improve academic achievement, create positive attitudes towards science and learning, and foster a pride of ownership of accomplishments in students. This project aims to teach children life cycles of plants and the effects that plant life can have on the environment.

In 2012, Independence Elementary PTA parents searched for projects to inspire, educate and engage parents and students. Chonnie Richey, Eunice Cruz, Heather Booth, and Hanh Vu, Independence PTA officers, spearheaded the Community Garden, which they named “The APPLE Project.” In addition, a school garden committee led by third grade teacher Amber Olson was formed to study the science curriculum and combine efforts with PTA’s vision for the school. The project has received support and expertise from Jason Wink, Jack Wilson and other members of the LISD Facilities department, as well as Independence school personnel.

The public is invited to join Independence Elementary PTA in the groundbreaking of the Community Gardens at Independence Elementary. The event begins at 9 a.m. More than 45 volunteers including parents and students will be involved in hand-shaping the landscape and planting the new garden on Earth Day. For more information, click here or email info@independencegardens.org.