Living Classrooms: Exploring the Power of Garden Based Education September 22, 2025

Course Description

• This professional learning opportunity is designed to support educators in integrating school gardens into classroom instruction across disciplines. Participants will select one of five DCSD school garden sites to attend, where they will explore how outdoor learning environments are being used to support academic standards, student engagement, and sustainability initiatives. Each location will offer a guided garden tour led by educators and site leaders. Participants will experience real-world examples of garden-based instruction, engage in collaborative reflection, and receive a packet of practical, cross-curricular materials for integrating gardens into their teaching. Educators will leave with tools and inspiration to activate or expand garden learning at their schools.
• Lead Learner (Facilitator): Kim Rankin | Beth Church
• Credit(s) and Type: 2.5 Hours Relicensure

Target Audience

• Admin/Pro-Tech, Certified Staff, Classified Staff
• Open to Substitute Teachers = Not at this time
• Open to Student Teachers = Yes
• Open to Charter School Staff = Not at this time 

Meeting Information

• Date: September 22, 2025
• Time: 1:00 - 3:30 PM
• Location: Various 

Course Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe how garden-based learning can support Colorado Academic Standards and interdisciplinary instruction.
• Identify practical strategies for engaging students in hands-on, outdoor learning experiences.
• Utilize a set of garden integration tools and site-based examples to plan lessons aligned to their instructional goals.