This school year is my first year as a school social worker at an elementary school in D.C. Like so many other educators, I was hoping that we would be able to start the fall with at least some in-person instruction. However, with the current state of the pandemic, our district has decided to begin fully remote. I agree with this decision because it is the safest option, but I'm also disappointed that we won't get to meet our kids in person. 

I will be heading up an initiative to build a community garden at our school to create a safe, outdoor space where families and staff can work together to grow produce. We will use the garden to plant and grow produce that families can take home in the spring. Families and staff will be able to contribute by helping to plant the produce throughout the fall. In addition, we will have rocks for kids to paint and write notes to others in the community, as well as benches and other art projects for them to engage in. Staff will be able to use the garden for virtual lessons as well as individual meetings with families.

The money will be used to purchase soil, gardening tools, and seeds to grow the produce. It will also be used for art projects, such as the rocks and bench that kids will be able to contribute to. Lastly, it will be used to create signs and directions to make sure that the garden is used safely while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

These funds will help to develop a sense of community among children, families, and staff and to create a safe physical space as we engage in virtual school. Myself as well as the students and staff will be so appreciative of all the help we can get to make this happen!