Tremont Elementary School launched a student-centered renovation of its courtyard, turning the area into a working farm.

As part of the district’s mission to enhance the education of students, this immersive, hands-on learning experience gives students and their families the opportunity to cultivate unique and enriching knowledge and skills.

“We fully expect the farm to amplify the educational experience of our students at Tremont,” said Tremont Elementary School principal Emily Wernau. “Students and families will be given opportunities to participate in various ways throughout the year during the school day and beyond.”

On Monday, April 15, Tremont Elementary School fourth and fifth-grade students were joined by the Patchogue-Medford High School Construction Trades Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. They installed flower beds, filled the beds with soil, and stained tables for an outdoor classroom. 

“Our collaboration with Tremont is a tremendous opportunity to give back to the community,” said Patchogue-Medford High School Construction Trades CTE program teacher Matt Golden. “It is also a great way for the younger students to see what is offered at the high school level.”

All Tremont classes are currently participating in the planting process and composting their scraps at lunch. Third graders are building a bird sanctuary, the fourth-grade garden club started a butterfly garden, and the fifth-grade garden club is weeding and planting. These efforts are leading up to Tremont’s farm expo on May 10.

Tremont Elementary School will continue expanding the farm. All classes will have the opportunity to plant, as part of the school’s science program, and the school aims to eventually add a chicken coop.