It’s harvest season at Northbrook Junior High's organic garden, and the garden is bursting with life — from bright sunflowers and crisp apples to freshly picked kale, arugula, cucamelons, tomatoes, pears, raspberries, and more! 

First graders from Meadowbrook School recently visited the garden and teamed up with 8th graders in Mr. Kostal's and Ms. Stout's classes to practice being scientists. The students explored living things by observing them up close with magnifying glasses and from a distance by focusing on details like textures and shapes. The 1st graders identified plants and insects, while their 8th-grade mentors guided them in documenting their findings through scientific drawings in their notebooks. This hands-on experience helped students learn the importance of careful observation and collaboration, embodying what it means to think like a scientist.

The NBJH garden opened in 2013. The school partners with local gardening service The Organic Gardener to help maintain and enhance the garden, ensuring it remains a thriving outdoor learning space for students year-round. Fresh produce from the garden is often incorporated into cafeteria meals, giving students the chance to enjoy healthy, homegrown ingredients straight from their own school.