A group of Grade 9 students at the DRCSS is connecting with the land.
Through the horticulture class, students are learning the ins and outs of gardening. They're gaining knowledge of the different types of plants, soil, fertilizers, and careers in the field. They've been taking on hands-on projects in the community and around the school.
Patty Goodine feels blessed to get an opportunity to teach the course.
"You know, it's something that gets them outdoors," said Goodine. "Get their feet and hands in the dirt, the earth. They get to connect with nature. It's like therapy, there are so many benefits from it."
The program began on April 15, and students quickly got down to business. There were five large raised garden beds outside the school. Students refurbished them into one large bed and cleaned them. Plants have since been planted.
"The students were very active in doing that and understanding that this needs constant maintenance and care," added Goodine. "Just like a baby, these are our babies. We need to give them the love that they deserve."
Recently, the class partnered with the City of Dauphin for the second year to plant trees at the Vermillion Sportsplex.
It's another way the students are helping contribute to local green spaces and environmental initiatives.
Goodine says it's an incredible feeling knowing the students are taking initiative to help beautify the City of Sunshine.
"Even if they don't realize it, it is so beneficial for them," added Goodine. "This is something they can put on their resume, put it under the volunteer section. This is stewardship. Giving your time and effort for a really, really good cause."
The other day, Goodine ran into one of her students at a local garden store. That student was working at the store for the summer.
"That's fantastic. This is a kid that struggled," added Goodine. "You just don't know where some of these students are going to end up. You know, he's doing okay."
Goodine, who has worked at the DRCSS for 13 years, believes the horticulture program is one of the most important offered at the school. She is passionate about gardening and connecting with the land, and she loves sharing her knowledge and passion.
In a time when grocery prices are skyrocketing, students are seeing the value of planting. What's the best thing about that? They now know how to achieve it.
"Moreover, the therapy in it. Being in touch with nature," ended Goodine. "Getting your hands and feet dirty with the earth. Getting the students outside and moving is probably the most important part of what we're doing at the school."
Dauphin has become that much more of a beautiful community thanks to Patty Goodine and her horticulture class at the DRCSS.
