Mackenzie Secondary School announced earlier this month the expansion of their garden project and sustainability program, made possible by a grant from the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation, in partnership with Farm to School BC. The funding provides students with valuable hands-on learning experiences, deepening their understanding of food production, environmental care, and community engagement.
With 270 students in grades 7 through 12, Mackenzie Secondary School has been committed to sustainability education, particularly through its Specialized Science course, led by teacher Kyle Tapper.
The funds enabled the construction of six raised garden beds on school grounds, which were integrated into both the science and culinary arts curricula. Students grew beets, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, and beans in the first year, while learning about farming techniques, crop rotation, and the importance of healthy eating.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Plant a Seed Foundation for helping to make this project closer to a reality,” says Mr. Tapper. “This program offers students opportunities to engage in food production, environmental stewardship and community collaboration. The school’s hydroponics systems and garden allow students to plant, harvest, and compost while addressing food security. The students also had the chance to engage in hands-on learning that connected directly with their studies. They didn’t just learn about caring for the environment—they experienced it firsthand.”
In addition to academic benefits, the garden project encouraged healthier eating habits, physical activity, and environmental stewardship. Students learned sustainable practices such as composting, crop rotation, and water conservation.
The grant marked an important milestone in Mackenzie’s Secondary School’s ongoing commitment to environmental education and community engagement. With the garden now complete, students will continue to benefit from the project as they harvest and enjoy the fruits of their labour throughout the year, enriching both their education and the local community.
About Plant a Seed Foundation
The Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation is a national registered charity dedicated to creating opportunities for children to explore the outdoors and be inspired by the breathtaking wonders of the natural world around them! The Foundation’s programs create moments of inspiration that can last a lifetime—in classrooms, in school gardens, by farm visits, and other outdoor educational activities. Through these outdoor experiences, a healthier generation of children is nurtured, and at the same time they learn to become good stewards of planet earth.
About Farm to School BC
Farm to School BC (F2SBC) is a provincial food literacy program administered by the Public Health Association of BC (PHABC) and supported by the Province of British Columbia. The program aims to nourish the minds and plates of all K–12 students in BC by investing in school food programs and hands-on food education. Since 2007, F2SBC has been a trusted funder, annually connecting schools across the province with grants and resources to grow vibrant school food initiatives. To learn more about Farm to School BC, visit www.farmtoschoolbc.ca or follow @farmtoschoolbc on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and YouTube.
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