CAMPBELL RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT
Growing Together: Quadra Classrooms' Sprouting Project

In a display of community and learning, Quadra Elementary School kicked off a fantastic project that educates and nourishes. Thanks to a $500 grant from the Quadra Island Foundation Neighbourhood Small Grants Fund, five Quadra classrooms started exploring the world of sprouting, all thanks to Barbara Mandell. Barbara, a retired educational assistant with a history in health food retailing, introduced Quadra students to the wonders of sprouting.

For 10 days, students from kindergarten through grade 5 saw seeds transform into edible sprouts, learning the entire process hands-on. They learned how to take care of seeds like mung beans, alfalfa, red clover, radish, and mustard. Students were tasked with rinsing, soaking, and draining the seeds twice daily, fostering a sense of responsibility and care.

But it wasn't just about watching them grow; it was a full-on science lesson. From understanding the science behind seeds and sprouting to recognizing the nutritional values of these tiny but mighty greens, the lessons were vast. Students learned the importance of removing the husk from mung beans before consumption and the process of 'greening' the sprouts by placing them in sunlight. This practical knowledge tied into broader scientific concepts, such as the life cycle of a seed and the conditions necessary for germination, linked directly to the science curriculum.

This project also brought these classes together through a potluck salad bar, where the sprouts took center stage. Each student contributed a topping, creating a shared meal that was a big, tasty celebration of what they'd grown together. It was such a hit that the parent advisory council is organizing a school-wide salad bar, using lettuce from the school's garden, for the end-of-year celebration.

The grant covered all necessary materials, including jars with strainer lids, bowls for drainage, tongs, and a year's supply of seeds. The school's garden fund will help classes that want to keep the sprouting going next year, ensuring the sustainability of this hands-on learning experience.

As Quadra moves into the second round of this sprouting adventure, they reflect on the lessons learned: the importance of sustainable food sources, the nutritional benefits of microgreens and sprouts, and the value of community engagement in education.

Thanks to Barbara and the Quadra Island Foundation, Quadra students learned loads about growing food and working together. It's a shining example of how community partnerships can have a significant impact. Here's to more projects that make learning fun and tasty!