Turning a new leaf: Outdoor education comes to two more schools

MARION — The Marion Institute is expanding its Grow Education program into two new schools within the Old Rochester Regional School District.

Old Hammondtown School in Mattapoisett and Rochester Memorial School in Rochester will partner with the non-profit to create a community graden that students will learn to manage. 

Students will learn about nutrition, earth science and agriculture by helping grow a garden. 

Superintendent of the Old Rochester Regional School District, Michael Nelson said, “These outdoor classrooms will help cultivate curiosity, environmental awareness and a lifelong appreciation for healthy living.”

The outdoor gardening experience is paired with classroom curriculums that will engage students, educators and families — sparking early interest in STEM and agricultural careers. 

Liz Wiley, Executive Director of the Marion Institute said, “At its heart, Grow Education is about connection — to our food, to the land, and to one another.”