At a local West Vancouver Elementary School staff and students were able to start their own Community School Garden, made possible through the support of the Neighbourhood Grants program. The funding from NSG has allowed them to make first steps in creating a space that connects students, staff, and the rest of the community to local ecology and Indigenous knowledge.
Using the grant money, native species plants were purchased from the Coast Salish Nursery. These plants were selected to reflect the local ecosystem and highlight culturally significant species. The purchase of these plants supports biodiversity but also strengthens place-based and culturally relevant learning opportunities.
In the future, the Community School Garden hopes to welcome a local Elder to share knowledge about the significance of the native plants, including their traditional uses, ecological importance, and cultural meaning. This visit will be a valuable opportunity for students and staff to learn through storytelling and relationship-building, fostering deeper connections to land and Indigenous ways of knowing.
The addition of these native plant species has already sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among students and teachers. The plants have been a hands-on resource for lessons in science, sustainability and Indigenous education. The garden also provides peaceful and engaging space for students to connect with nature.
Through the creation of this garden there have been hundreds of community members (including staff and students) who have participated, which has helped build a better sense of community.
