Barbara Baker

In the "Garden for Life" program at Lowell Elementary School, Baker will work with up to 30 students to study the ecosystem of a garden and its components. The students will prepare the soil, select plants and care for the garden throughout the seasonal changes. Baker's class will also observe wildlife and insects that can be found in the garden. As the garden develops, students will discover the lifecycle of a seed, provide garden maintenance and even learn how to identify and use ripe vegetables. In the fall, the class will prepare the garden and their tools for frost and winter. Students will use the scientific method over the course of their research to answer environmental questions. They will also journal their gardening experiences, which will enhance both reading and writing skills. A goal of this project is to show students how they can learn about nature, nutrition and life skills in a fast-paced world. They will also enhance the beauty of their neighborhood with an active garden. Baker is a resident of Milwaukee.