The Problem Community gardens improve food access, build community pride and preserve green space. They are most effective when led inclusively, reflect cultural history and support economic development. Such practices are rarely used in school garden programs. Broughal Middle School’s work with the College of Health offers a chance to explore sustainable, school-based gardens that support student and community well-being. The Approach To address these questions, Dr. Jackson, in collaboration with colleagues, school leadership, and community partners, cocreated a 12-week gardening and plant therapy (GPT) program for students at Broughal Middle School in Bethlehem, PA. This pilot study: Supports students with social-emotional learning and environmental education. Celebrates local culture and foodways through a food justice lens. Assesses program feasibility and implementation. Collects preliminary survey and qualitative data on program impact. A Gardening and Plant Therapy Program at Broughal Middle School Short Term Impact Build reciprocal community partnerships, support local leadership and hire a community-based Program Coordinator. Promote student mental health through plant therapy. Longer Term Impact Strengthen community belonging and civic engagement. Highlight best practices and challenges in schoolbased greenhouse programs. Develop a GPT curriculum with the Program Director. Societal Impact Funding for this research will support the creation of a school-based Gardening and Plant Therapy program co-created with community partners. The project integrates social-emotional learning, environmental education and food justice to support student well-being. This work offers societal benefits in the following areas: "Community-based participatory research/my research centers reciprocal relationships between the university and the local community—learning and doing happens in the most beautiful ways in our city when faculty/students and local residents become trusted partners and committed neighbors." - Kate Jackson, PhD For more information visit https://health.lehigh.edu/research-partners or email INRSRCH@lehigh.edu 16 Community/Culture: Unites youth and community to grow together while honoring Indigenous knowledge and celebrating diverse food stories. Education: Develop program to enhance student mental health and environmental connection.
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