Frequently Asked Questions for Teachers
Does Food Forest time take away classroom learning time?
Not at all. Food Forest time is classroom time, just outside!
Our curriculum modules are fully aligned with Miami-Dade County's K-5 math, science, and resiliency standards, so every hands-on activity reinforces exactly what students are already learning in class. That means classes can head to the Food Forest during their regular math or science block with confidence, since it's structured, standards-based learning, not free time. Teachers can even use it as a gradable lesson, so it fits right into the instructional day your administration expects. And the results speak for themselves: our tactile, engaging approach has led to a 70% improvement in math and science scores among participating students. Food Forest time doesn't take away from learning, it enhances it!
When Do Planting Days Happen?
Educational planting days are generally scheduled October through December, taking advantage of the cooler weather and prime planting season here in Miami-Dade County giving new plants the best possible start!
We'd love to work with you to plan your perfect school garden. Please connect with us to schedule a date that fits your school's calendar, discuss what your garden needs, and coordinate classes and grade levels so it's a fun, memorable learning experience for everyone involved.
Can I use my Food Forest or edible garden to apply for other awards like Green Schools, Fairchild Challenge, Dream In Green?
Yes, and we encourage you to do so! Our program aligns with many criteria and opportunities for other awards and grants. An important reminder is that one Food Forest or edible garden space can serve many purposes. It’s an outdoor classroom, edible garden, and can also be a native pollinator garden if native flowers that attract bees and butterflies are added. You don’t have to build new or separate gardens to meet different criteria.
What if we want to alter or change part of our Food Forest?
Your Food Forest is more than most realize! It's a pollinator garden, a native garden, an edible landscape of ethnically diverse plants, and an outdoor classroom, all growing together in one space! It's also an integral part of your school's landscape, endorsed by the district's Wellness Policy, STEAM Department, and Office of Efficiency and Resource Management. That diversity and support is part of what makes it so valuable, so we'd love to help you make the most of it before making changes.
If you or your administrator have questions or run into issues with the space, please contact us first before changing any part of the Food Forest. We're happy to help guide solutions.
Sometimes the best solution is simpler than starting over. For example, schools interested in adding native or pollinator-friendly plants don't need to remove what's already there; those elements can often be woven right into your existing Food Forest, enhancing the space rather than replacing it. Let's chat first so we can find the best path forward together!
Where do I buy plants?
North Dade:
Florida Nursery Mart: 10900 Griffin Rd Cooper City, FL 33328
Tree Amigos: 10900 SW 48th St Davie FL, 33328
South Dade:
Little River Coop: 22305 SW 157th Ave Redland, FL 33170
Ready to Grow: 4590 SW 122nd Ave Miami FL, 33175
