Nishuane’s Grow Lab is a PTA-funded, school-wide gardening and hands-on science program that invites students to explore the natural world, practice environmental stewardship, and engage all five senses while planting, observing, and tasting from the garden. Through outdoor and indoor lessons centered on experiential learning and scientific inquiry, students gain knowledge, skills, and a love for nature—all while having fun.

No gardening or teaching experience needed. Just a desire to get involved and bring this dynamic, learning opportunity to your child’s class. Classroom volunteers help co-lead monthly lessons (20–45 minutes) in their child’s classroom with other caregiver volunteers. 

Each lesson comes with:

• Clear, step-by-step instructions
• All necessary materials (with occasional, reimbursable items from home)
• Support from the classroom teacher and Grow Lab Committee

Topics include composting with live worms to plant propagation to tending our vegetable, sensory, and native plant/butterfly garden.

And if classroom involvement doesn’t work for you, Grow Lab welcomes extra hands to help with garden planning and maintenance.

To volunteer for Grow Lab or have questions about the program, check out our volunteer website, or please contact Lauren Hooper & Jessanne Collins, Grow Lab Co-Chairs.