The Harper Garden was created in 2003 when Kathy Hofschield, then a first grade teacher, received grants from both the Chicago Botanic Garden and the District 39 Educational Foundation. Harper students, parents, and teachers worked side by side with the horticulturists of the Chicago Botanic Garden to conceptualize and build the new space. Currently, the garden features six raised beds for planting fruits and vegetables, a cozy tree stump reading nook, a relaxing bridge over a Mexican Pebble “river,” and a beautiful hand-painted rock path through a wild prairie garden. The space has stayed true to Ms. Hofschield’s original goal to provide a sanctuary that encourages children to rest, reflect, and care for the environment.
The Harper PTO has engaged The Talking Farm, a 501(c)(3) not for profit entity to help maintain the Harper Garden and provide a year round garden curriculum to Harper students of all grade levels. Students work in the garden planting, weeding, harvesting, and watering.
Our crops planted in late spring have been growing well over summer and will be harvested once children return to school in the fall!
More information on volunteer sign ups coming soon! Please email the Garden committee at garden@harperpto.com with any questions.
