Education Grant WinnerDavid Martinez

Having a learning environment where team building and a sense of ownership can be just the right connection students are looking for. How about a garden? Well, a garden certainly fits the criteria, given it teaches sustainable practices, food security, and fostering a passion for horticulture.

David Martinez, educator at SouthWest High School, was looking for a grant that would provide his students the opportunity to acquire skills that would develop self-discipline and hone their sense of stewardship. Thanks to Power of the Dollar^® members, he was awarded a $1,000 grant in December 2024 for his “Bloom Up: Growing Together, Growing Green” idea, which he then used to purchase hydroponic garden systems, as well as other gardening materials to bring his idea to life.

“I wanted an opportunity for our kids to experience new things and to bring back to their community,” said Martinez. “Behavior at school has changed; behavior at home has changed—in a good way—is the feedback I hear from their parents.”

With this hands-on, ecological project, the students are taking ownership of the plants they are taking care of. From composting to water conservation, to renewable energy usage, Mr. Martinez’s students are championing the project in a remarkable display of ambition and are having fun along the way. Being able to gift students with the never-ending urge to retain knowledge and the resources to accomplish this is something you couldn’t put a price on, but the arguably the largest reward is seeing them build the confidence they need to excel as they navigate life’s journey.

“You see a social change from them,” he said. “Seeing the interactions they have had with others has been outstanding. They really have changed in a positive way.”