J Blaine Blayton School Garden

GardenBee

J. Blaine Blayton Elementary School

Bumblebee Garden

J. Blaine Blayton Elementary School (JBB) is a public elementary school located in Williamsburg, Virginia. We opened our doors in September 2010 and presently serve 433 K-5 students.

This School Garden is the result of work of teachers, parents, Master Gardeners, local businesses and other community volunteers. Thank you to everyone who has contributed.

HISTORY

Though JBB’s Garden is only a year old (from conception October 2010), we have accomplished much. We have:

· Researched other school gardens in the community and sought the advice of the Community Master Gardener Association.

· Drafted a Five Year Plan, including a Site Plan.

· Obtained initial funding and completed construction of 9 raised beds, a fence, a shade structure, a toolshed and a grape arbor.

· Obtained local financial and volunteer support (School Health Initiative Program, PTA, Master Gardeners, Student Council, Teachers, local businesses) for the planting of fruit trees, strawberry & blueberry beds, purchase of child-size tools and curriculum materials.

· Planted a demonstration garden (spring 2011) and our first vegetable garden (fall 2011).

FIVE YEAR PLAN

The Plan, like a garden, is a growing, evolving proposition. As far as possible, we will keep the plan updated as plans change, beds become funded, resources change or opportunities become available for improvement. If you have questions about a particular detail, please contact Garden Committee Co-Chairs Kelly Houck or Charles Morse.

Mission Statement