The Suarez Grebowich Garden is a special aspect of the PDS campus and is a place that all members of our community can enjoy. Filled with delicious plants and vegetables, a clay oven that cooks all kinds of foods with a hint of smoky flavor, and a teaching space for students to learn outdoors, the garden is a multipurpose classroom that is unique to PDS. Despite its beauty, some might not recognize the garden’s role and its impact in our community.
The garden was first constructed in 2008 by members of the PDS community. The 150 individuals involved in the construction leveled the ground, built the garden beds, and filled them all with soil. The spirit community in the garden has carried through the course of time. Every year, there are two community garden days that focus on PDS members working together to maintain the wellness of the space. In addition, the Environmental Action club hosts the Harvest Festival every year, an event where the PDS community gathers in the garden and celebrates the end of the growing season.
In 2011, the garden’s outdoor classroom was constructed, serving as a space where students can experiment with natural ingredients and learn more about the environment. With classes in the garden once a week, PDS lower schoolers have the chance to spend time outside and explore the natural world. Garden Coordinator Pam Flory believes that the garden provides a wonderful environment for students to grow as well-rounded individuals, as she remarked, “The garden is a space where so many academic classes can really be brought to life. When we experience things, we tend to remember them, and they have much more of an impact on us.” In addition, the garden promotes responsibility and eco-friendly thinking, with Mrs. Flory describing the space as “one of the cornerstones of the sustainability program here at PDS.”
Upper schoolers also have the opportunity to get involved with this outdoor space. Most notably, the Garden Apprentice Program (GAP) allows for students to work with Mrs. Flory in caring for the garden. Sophomore Michael Berry talked about his experience in the garden. “I learned a lot from my time there, specifically about compost and how it helps the environment. It’s also a nice break from all the classes, and it gives you a peace of mind.”
Moreover, the garden welcomes anyone who is interested in getting involved with the outdoors at PDS. Ms. Flory expressed how she is more than happy to have new students in the garden, as she noted, “I would just love for everybody to appreciate and realize how unique and special what we have here is and to really take advantage of it. I mean, what a great place to be able to just take a few deep breaths, have a little tasting off the grazing menu, and have a reset, thinking about our emotional and mental health. It’s a great little sanctuary to come to.”
