At five Inglewood schools — Bennett-Kew Elementary, La Tijera Elementary, Centinela Elementary, Oak Street Elementary, and Woodworth-Monroe Elementary — learning went beyond the classroom walls this fall through the UPLIFT Grades of Green School Districts Program, a hands-on, nature-inspired experience designed to connect students with the environment in a fun and meaningful way.
The focus at these schools? Plants, sustainability, and student empowerment.
The journey began with lessons on plant care and the importance of green spaces. Students explored how plants grow, what they need to thrive, and how even a small garden can make a big difference in supporting a healthy planet.
Next came the exciting part: planting their very own seeds. Each student got to choose from three colorful, fast-growing options. Some selected pumpkins, perfect for the fall season and a great lesson in patience. Others chose rainbow chard, a vibrant, edible plant that adds a splash of color to any garden. Many opted for sunflowers, tall and cheerful plants known for their sunny blooms and pollinator-friendly nature.
Guided by dedicated Grades of Green instructors, students filled pots with soil, carefully planted their seeds, and gave them their first drink of water. As they worked, they learned that caring for plants takes consistency, responsibility, and heart.
At the end of the activity, each student took their plant home, a small but powerful reminder of what they had learned. Whether placed on a windowsill or in the garden, these growing plants now represent a bigger idea: that sustainability starts small but can grow into something truly impactful.
Want to bring programs like this to your school? Learn more about how UPLIFT can help your students connect with the environment!
