By Brian Emerson
Gompers Grows

For the second consecutive year, students at Gompers Elementary School will be growing. With support from community partners and volunteers, students will explore how food is grown and how it relates to their community and local environment. The program strives to provide a science-based enrichment that bridges academic disciplines and gives our youth tools to become engaged and informed citizens.

Volunteers from UW-Horticulture Urban and Regional Food Systems program and Madison Area Master Gardeners will conduct a series of in-class visits to instruct students on a variety of subjects. Topics include seed starting, soil basics, vermicomposting, seasons, weather and food systems. UW graduate student and project leader Thi Le said, “All activities are intended to give students a basic understanding of the importance of growing food and how it relates to their individual health and that of our community. We want students to know that, by learning these skills, they can become a part of making meaningful contributions to their families and neighborhoods.”

The program will culminate May 22 with the second annual Family Gardening Night at Gompers Elementary School from 5:30‒7:30 pm. Community members and families are invited to enjoy a free salad bar featuring student-grown lettuce and greens. After the food, stay and explore student projects, pick up free vegetable seeds and help support the Gompers Grows program by purchasing tomato, pepper and kale transplants. Plant experts will be on hand to offer horticultural advice or to answer gardening questions.

If you have questions or would like to donate to the program, contact Brian Emerson at bemerson@wisc.edu.