PLAN Before You Plant
Successful, sustainable school projects start by involving the school community in planning.

Share the Dream
Form a team of staff and parents to gather ideas, discuss possibilities and prioritize needs and goals.  How will the area be used to support curriculum?  How will you involve students to get information and make choices?

Survey the Site
Check with maintenance staff and others about its existing uses. Measure it.  Note growing conditions (light, soil, access to water).

Create a Design &Action Plan
Select features and create a design.  Develop a timetable to implement it.  It's great to start small and build on success over time.  Plan for ways students can use and add to the area in subsequent years.

Involve the Community
A plan with broad support, that many people have helped shape, is critical for long-term success.  Vandalism is less likely.  Enthusiasm for using it will grow, as well as support for its upkeep.