Students at Independence Primary School are gaining hands-on experience in sustainability and environmental education as the second phase of a major pavilion revitalization project moves forward. Funded through a sustainability grant awarded to Independence Primary and the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) by Dominion Energy and Whole Foods, the initiative is transforming the school’s outdoor space into a dynamic learning environment.
The project, titled “Designing Valuable Experiences and Work and Aligning Resources for Collaborative Growth,” began earlier this year with the installation of a greenhouse near the pavilion—one of the grant’s key features and the focus of phase one. Now in phase two, the project has taken another step forward. Over spring break, limestone was delivered to begin constructing raised garden beds, and a variety of fruit trees, including apple trees, have been planted around the area.
These enhancements are designed to provide students with meaningful educational opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. The greenhouse, raised beds, fruit trees, and composting areas will support a wide range of lessons in plant science, ecosystem management, sustainable agriculture, and environmental stewardship. Students will engage directly in growing and caring for plants, learning about food systems, and understanding their role in protecting the environment.
By incorporating these sustainable features into the school’s curriculum, Independence Primary School is creating an experiential learning model that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a lasting connection to nature. “The revitalized pavilion area serves as a clear representation of the impact of collective effort between the IPS PTO and the school’s ongoing commitment to promoting a progressive, environmentally responsible educational environment,” said Principal TJ Ebert.