School or Community Site
Dimensions Academy – Community Regional Charter School
Physical Address
1192 West Ridge Rd.
Cornville, Maine 04976
Contact Name
Allison Perkins
Email
aperkins@crcsme.org
Category
Vegetable and herb Garden, Greenhouse or hoop house, Composting
When was your garden project started?
Off and on since 2011
What type of facility hosts your garden?
Public Charter School – Elementary
What programs does your garden project include?
Garden Club, Classroom, Cafeteria Connection planned
Does your garden have a paid coordinator?
Yes
Who volunteers in your garden?
Garden Club, Facilitators, Parents
How is your garden project funded?
Donation and curriculum funding
What community connections do you have?
Local Farmers,Students and families
Who tends the garden when school’s out?
Facilitators and Volunteers (parents, students)
What are your future goals?
The long-term goal of our school garden is to establish it as a sustainable, outdoor learning environment that supports academic achievement, student wellness, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. We envision the garden becoming an extension of the classroom where learners participate in hands-on, interdisciplinary learning experiences aligned with Maine Learning Results in science, mathematics, literacy, and social studies. As the garden grows, we plan to expand opportunities for learners to develop skills in agriculture, nutrition, sustainability, and teamwork while fostering responsibility and leadership. Produce harvested from the garden will be incorporated into nutrition education, school meals when feasible, classroom activities, and community service projects, helping learners understand where food comes from and the importance of healthy eating. Future goals also include strengthening partnerships with local farms, businesses, volunteers, and community organizations to provide mentorship, resources, and experiential learning opportunities. Ultimately, the school garden will serve as a lasting resource that promotes lifelong healthy habits, environmental responsibility, and meaningful connections between the school and the community.
What is your most significant need?
Funding is needed to create a safe, accessible, and sustainable garden that can serve learners for years to come, becoming an integral part of our educational program and strengthening partnerships with families and the local community.
