Earlier today, United South High School hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction of the Precious Panthers Reading and Vegetable Garden. Lowe’s Home Improvement Store awarded the school with a $4,000 grant to cover the costs. The Precious Panthers (special needs students) will have the opportunity to work together with general education students to learn skills in gardening, planting, and harvesting fruit trees and vegetables.
Adaptive P.E. Coach Maria Sandoval initiated this project with one goal in mind—to provide her students with a meaningful life activity, one that would provide them with not only a skill but also with inclusionary opportunities to forge lasting bonds of friendship and acceptance. United South High School FFA and Vocational Teachers Jose Barrera and Carlos Lozano were recognized for their significant role in making this day a reality for our students.
“This garden will be a place to begin building bridges to a better understanding and acceptance of each individual’s unique gifts and to promote compassion and unconditional love,” said Cynthia Ramirez, Executive Director for Special Education.
Adriana Ramirez, School Principal stated, “ I look forward to the coming months when our Precious Panthers and all participating students will reap the fruits of their labor."
Photos:
United South Precious Panthers broke ground for Reading and Vegetable Garden. They are accompanied by Cynthia Ramirez, UISD Executive Director for Special Education, Principal Adriana Ramirez, and Assistant Principal Jennie Sanchez.
Cynthia Ramirez, UISD Executive Director for Special Education, Roberto J. Herrera, Principal Adriana Ramirez, Ariana Sanchez Adaptive P.E. Coach Maria Sandoval after official Garden Groundbreaking.
Precious Panthers Garden Groundbreaking.
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