GINLC Newsletter: Habitat for Learning

With funds from the Colina Foundation and the Meyer Family Foundation, our Education Committee has embarked on a project to transform the underutilized enclosed courtyard at Parke Lane Elementary into a Habitat for Learning. Four planting beds will be assembled in the courtyard, attracting winged wildlife like butterflies, birds and insects. The children will have opportunities to grow vegetables and have a green outdoor space for reading, writing and activities.

Volunteer partners for this project include Annette Ader (teacher), Russ Boismier (contractor) and Erica Mesdahl (Westcroft Gardens). Each is organizing a vital Lifetime Achievement Award part of this project. Ader will be developing curriculum for bringing outdoor learning opportunities for the K-2 children and will coordinate school access and summer care of plants. Boismier is coordinating the construction of the beds and the plumbing so that water is available. Mesdahl is providing a planting plan. The Grosse Ile Garden Club will provide volunteers and food for our workday, Friday May 13th.

As part of the Ford Motor Better World Action Day we are also hoping to have volunteer workers from Ford to assist us with the construction and planting. Wheelbarrows are needed for transporting supplies through the school, so if you’re available to assist, please contact Courtney Solenberger-McNeill at 734-692-5007 or email .