The Benefits and Sustainability of School Gardens: A Case Study of St. Francis School Greenhouse (Harbour Grace, NL)

Abstract

I will develop a pilot study at St. Francis School in Harbour Grace, which is one of the few school gardens in NL. The St. Francis school greenhouse program is a unique example of innovation in the province with regards to health, the environment, agriculture, and education. The pilot study will include key informant interviews with parents, teachers, and community leaders involved or interested in the project. The goal of the interviews is: to investigate the start and evolution of the program; analyze facilitators and deterrents for keeping the program running; identify benefits of the program; and become familiar with key aspects to maintain sustainability.