Anne Carlsen Center School Garden

Self sustaining garden program includes adaptive methods to include students into all parts of growing, harvesting, and selling. Horticultural Therapist on staff.

The mission of the ACC school garden program is threefold: 1) Provide opportunities for children to connect with plants and nature through their individual strengths and preferences; 2) to support educational, therapy, and wellness goals; and 3) to develop and strengthen our students and their relationships with others.

The school garden program supports the Anne Carlsen philosophy to nurture individuals with physical, mental and health impairments through creative combinations of special education and training, therapy, supportive medical care and above all else, the unconditional love, understanding and sense of belonging every child longs for and deserves.

Began in 2005 with an Ag in the Classroom grant from ND Agriculture dept. Two special education teachers, Corby Maddock and Mary Lewis, manage the program and gardens which produce a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Each year over 500 jars of salsa are canned and sold by the students, along with other produce, crafts, and plants. In 2008 the solarium addition was added, which gives students the opportunity to garden and participate in horticultural activities year- round.

The Anne Carlsen School Gardens were recently awarded the Education Award from North Dakota Soil Conservation district.