One hundred enthusiastic second-grade students from Phelan Elementary School recently enjoyed a walking field trip to the Phelan Community Park. The exciting outing, organized by the Phelan Pinon Hills CSD Parks and Recreation Department, was an educational adventure focused on seeds and gardening.
Once at the park, the students were gathered in a shaded area near the lush green grass to learn about seeds, their origins, and the germination process. Under the guidance of volunteer instructor Michelle Hannon, a Master Gardener and Master Composter, the young learners discovered the inner workings of seeds. They explored various types, from flowers, pinecones, fruits, and vegetables. They even had the opportunity to examine the seeds within ripe tomatoes and cantaloupes, as well as the seeds of beautiful sunflowers and pinecones.
The engaging session also demonstrated the elements required for seed germination, such as water, air, and sunlight. Each student had the chance to plant two seeds in a small greenhouse to take back to school.
The Parks and Recreation Department generously gave each participant pencils, recycling body tattoos, and water conservation coloring books to take back to school as souvenirs of their day at the park.
The Community Teaching Garden, located adjacent to the Phelan Community Park, offers free classes for all age groups on the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. Michelle also provides gardening-themed field trips at the Community Garden for schools and youth groups to promote gardening.
On a special Earth Day visit, Hannon followed up with the students to guide them in transplanting their seedlings into garden beds. Each of the one hundred students planted a seedling in a raised bed in the school’s garden or in a small pot to take home. They were taught the importance of properly preparing the planting hole and watering both the hole and the plant before insertion to minimize shock to the delicate seedlings.
The students enjoyed the hands-on experience and jumped at the opportunity to play in the dirt and contribute to creating a garden. The event was a great example of the community coming together to educate our youth, and it no doubt left a lasting impression on the young minds of Phelan Elementary School.
