The ribbon-cutting ceremony at Chapin Elementary School’s pollinator garden marked a significant milestone in the students’ journey toward environmental stewardship. Led by fourth-grade teachers Jennifer Layton and Teresa Randolph, the Pollinator Garden Project exemplifies the power of community collaboration and student-driven initiatives.
Inspired by the concept of solutionaries, the students embarked on a mission to address the issue of pollinator decline by creating a native-plant pollinator garden. With support from the Chapin Garden Club, the Native Plant Society, The Audubon Society, and local families, the garden began to take shape.
Throughout the project, students witnessed firsthand the impact of their actions as the garden provided habitat and life cycle support to monarch butterflies. This hands-on experience not only fostered a deeper understanding of environmental conservation but also inspired them to share their knowledge with other grade levels and the community.
The success of the Pollinator Garden Project led to the establishment of the nonprofit organization Team Landolph: Raising Community Impact Leaders. Under the leadership of Layton and Randolph, the Eaglets Making Impact afterschool team continued to expand the garden and pursue recognition as a National Wildlife Federation Certified Habitat.
The project’s growth and success would not have been possible without the support of numerous organizations, volunteers, and community members who generously contributed their time, resources, and expertise. Mayor Al Koon and the Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce’s recognition of the project underscored the importance of community involvement and collaboration.
As a symbol of unity and environmental stewardship, the pollinator garden serves as a valuable educational resource for Chapin Elementary School students and the broader community. Its presence not only supports local wildlife but also serves as a reminder of the positive impact achievable through collective action.
To experience the beauty of the Chapin Elementary School pollinator garden and other natural spaces in the community, visitors are invited to attend the Upcoming Chapin Area Garden Crawl on April 27th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. For more information, please visit the Facebook event page.
