All parents have stars in their eyes when they plan for the future of their children, and the parents of this garden were no different. They wanted this plot to be far more than just a place to grow vegetables. Instead, Academia Sandoval parents created a garden that integrates classroom concepts with real world experience, and provides a place where small children can explore the natural world. The garden highlights local history, including the discovery of a triceratops near school grounds. Also, the site is representative of the neighborhood’s active art scene, of which many school parents are a part. Lastly, the diversity of garden plants symbolizes diversity within the school, the neighborhood, and around the world.

How many ways can we love our garden? At Academia Sandoval, the answer is five. That’s because this garden engages all five senses. There are interesting shapes, colors, tastes, smells, and sights everywhere. The garden contains a native plant area, a birds and butterfly garden, and salsa and pizza gardens that link children directly with with nutrition and food preparation. There are also fruit trees, shade trees, raised classroom plots, and an eclectic shade pavilion made of cedar and galvanized steel.