A dedicated team is necessary to tackle the planning, fundraising, publicizing, building, and planting involved in the development of a schoolyard habitat. The diverse skills and support each member of the Habitat Team brings to the project are invaluable to the habitat's overall conception, construction, and maintenance. To have a solid foundation, the Habitat Team should include representatives from each of the following school community groups. Students Student leadership and initiative is a major factor in the success of the project. The components, structure, and goals of the schoolyard habitat should be defined by student input and ideas.
Students serve as the source of enthusiasm and creativity for such a project.
Educators Educators are incredible sources of inspiration, but students must ultimately direct the project. In this process, educators may serve as mentors, resource aides, facilitators, co-workers, and cheerleaders. They must strike a balance between taking the lead to push the project forward and stepping back to allow for student initiative. Administration Support and participation of school officials is crucial. They can offer insight into budget concerns, future building plans, liability issues, community relations, and funding opportunities.