‘We’re proud of what we’ve created together’

CULLMAN, Ala. – Students, faculty, staff and community partners gathered on Friday, May 16, to celebrate exciting additions to the East Elementary School outdoor classroom, a growing space of education and environmental stewardship.

“This garden is more than just a collection of plants,” said teacher and Garden Club Sponsor Leeanna Smith. “It’s a space that embodies creativity, accessibility and collaboration across our entire school community.”

Among the most meaningful changes to the outdoor classroom is a newly renovated accessibility ramp complete with raised garden beds and a trellis, which allows students of all abilities to enjoy planting, harvesting and greenery.

“This area was designed so that everyone can participate. It reflects our values of inclusion and hands-on learning,” shared Smith.

Other additions include a greenhouse, composting bins and a strawberry pyramid funded by a donation from former Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Fairview. Shedd was presented with his own keepsake bee house as a token of thanks.

“Our strawberry pyramid has already become a student favorite. We’re grateful to Congressman Shedd for helping us bring it to life and supporting hands-on learning,” said Smith.

The outdoor classroom’s expansion also includes a larger pollinator garden bordered by a sustainable bamboo fence, additional raised beds and an art installation called the “rock snake,” created under the guidance of art teacher Lea Casey. Students decorated each rock to add a personal touch.

The celebration also recognized the outdoor classroom’s most prominent supporters, including the Cullman City Schools Foundation, which funded green initiatives such as composting systems, a greenhouse, and a vermicomposting worm habitat. The Operation Round Up Board provides classroom essentials that support garden-based learning.

Community volunteers Don Scott, Jeff Core, Jerome Woods and David James built trellises, installed beds and repaired the ramp. The Cullman City Schools maintenance team, including Mike Kilpatrick, Hayden Faulk, Roman Shields, Gary Lay, Chris Parker and Jeff Thomas, all worked behind the scenes to bring many of the projects to life. Volunteers were given engraved hammers, and city leaders were given handcrafted bee houses.

Special thanks were also extended to the North Alabama Agriplex and the school’s cherished “Garden Golden Girls,” whose presence adds joy to Garden Club meetings and special events. City and school leaders in attendance included Cullman City Schools Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff; school board members Jill Bradbury and Cheryl Harrison; Cullman City Council members Johnny Cook and Jenny Folsom; and Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs.

The ceremony concluded with a student-led tour of the outdoor classroom and a performance of “The Frog Song,” which was composed many years ago by former Cullman City Schools music teacher Tim Clemmons.

“Our garden continues to grow in size and purpose because of the collective care of our community,” said Smith. “It truly takes a village — and we’re proud of what we’ve created together.”

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