School Gardens

School Garden Program

New Bedford Public Schools' Food & Nutrition Services Department proudly manages and supports a growing network of school gardens that serve as outdoor classrooms across the district. Building on years of collaboration and community partnerships, the district has developed a comprehensive garden program that connects students to food, nutrition, agriculture, and environmental stewardship through hands-on learning experiences.

School gardens provide students with opportunities to plant, grow, harvest, and taste fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs while exploring science, nutrition, sustainability, and healthy living. These outdoor learning spaces help students better understand where food comes from, encourage healthy eating habits, and foster a lifelong appreciation for gardening and local food systems.

Through classroom integration, garden-based activities, taste tests, and Farm to School initiatives, students engage in meaningful experiences that connect academic learning with real-world applications. The program also supports family and community engagement by creating opportunities for students, staff, and community members to work together in cultivating healthy school environments.

By maintaining gardens throughout the district, New Bedford Public Schools continues to promote wellness, environmental responsibility, and the belief that food can be a powerful tool for learning, health, and community connection.