The project began three years ago. It was initially created by the students as a small perennial garden, utilizing as many native plant varieties as possible, within the parameters of the donations received. With it's success, it snowballed into an additional, tangential, large-scale schoolyard habitat. Summer maintenance is undertaken by the coordinating teacher who is supported by the school's grounds crew. These are reviewed at the end of each month.
Students earn rewards for their efforts.
Portfolios are maintained throughout the year. A plastic portfolio is given to each student. In it, they file the best example of each major assignment completed. Portfolios are graded at year's end, and they are used for subsequent employment pursuits. Teamwork, respect for others, and the ability to collaborate on a given task is addressed through competition.