Leland Public School (LPS) held an open house with the Little Garden Club of Leland for a tour of the new Art Garden outdoor learning space in August at its unveiling. In addition to the Little Garden Club of Leland, staff and administration were in attendance including Superintendent, Dr. Ryan Huppert and Principal Shelagh Fehrenbach. The Art Garden was made possible by two generous grants received from the Little Garden Club of Leland and the Leland Education Foundation.
Situated just steps from the art classroom, the art garden features perennial plantings, a pond with vibrant aquatic plants and wildlife, benches for outdoor learning, creating and inspiration, as well as an original art sculpture, donated by artist, Bill Allen, with the intention of having students name the sculpture. The space is intended as an outdoor classroom to be utilized by teachers and students across subject areas.
The Art Garden was the vision of Art Teacher, Lani Hoenscheid Smith and LPS Aide and landscape artist, Carol Shipley, who worked together on the concept design and grant writing to support its development, along with LPS 11th grade student, Carmella Valentine. A special thank you to Pat Patterson and Nello Valentine for their hours of labor helping to make the vision a reality as well. All worked together with students, staff and administration to bring the landscape to life. Leland Public School is grateful to the granters for their generous support toward this learning space, to be used for years to come!
