Education Grant WinnerMary Frances Nino

Being outdoors is a way to escape from the books and enjoy extracurricular activities—like gardening! For students, it provides an opportunity for them to take care of something that gives them ownership of it, and it also builds intellectual development in sharpening their problem-solving skills.

Mary Frances Nino, educator at Elm Creek Elementary, wanted to construct a garden for her students to garner pride in nourishing, as well as give them a project that would further strengthen their engagement. Thanks to Power of the Dollar^® members, she was awarded a $1,000 grant in December 2024 for her “Outdoor Learning” idea, which she then used to purchase metal garden beds, plants, garden tools and accessories, and much more!

“I really wanted to have this garden for the kids to come out and learn outside as they learn indoors, of course,” said Nino. “I wanted to have that hands-on experience with the garden. I had gone to Pre-K for SA many years ago, saw their outdoor learning centers, and that set in my mind that this is what I wanted for our kids!”

The project inspired a nutrition-themed parade for the grand opening of their new garden, with students dressed up as fruits and vegetables, and ultimately led everyone outside to unveil everything they are working on. Showcasing various planting areas with vegetables, such as cucumber and squash, to fruits like watermelon, and even flowers, the kids are having a blast maintaining the health of the garden and are strengthening their confidence in preserving natural resources. Learning outdoors has been a huge hit for her students!

“They love it,” she said. “They love coming out here and seeing their plants grow. They love gardening and this is just the beginning!”