HES 5/K Run Walk runners and walkers turned out early on Saturday, May 25, for Haywood Elementary School’s Greenhouse Challenge 5K Run/Walk. The purpose of the event was to raise funds to start a greenhouse garden behind the school as a “very cool learning tool” for teachers and students who will learn about planting, growing, and eating fresh vegetables while increasing their science knowledge. Samantha Sammons, a third-grade teacher, who originated the idea, partnered with Solid Waste Director Clinton Neal and Cindy Smith, HCS School Health Coordinator, to get the idea off the ground. The theme was, “Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies, Healthy Earth,” but is was shortened to Greenhouse Challenge. Sponsors assisting with race expenses are Simmons Bank, Haywood County Government, Willow Oaks Flower Farm, UT Extension C-3 Obesity Grant, and Coordinated School Health.

Healthy snacks for the participants were donated by UT C-3 Grant and Coordinated School Health. The greenhouse will be constructed this summer with materials donated by Willow Oaks farm. Haywood County Solid will complete the construction. Materials for the actual garden are donated by UT Extension C-3 Obesity Grant.

The entire school with benefit from this project by enjoying fresh vegetables and having opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in growing and eating vegetables, as well as learning about the life cycle of plants. I don’t know too many kids who don’t mind getting dirty, so this should be a GREAT learning tool for all of them. What a fun way to learn!