If you have visited the CLES Elementary School lately, you may have wondered what all the activity is on the front lawn. A demonstration Teaching Garden site has been selected and ground prep is underway. The purposes of the Teaching Garden are to - help children learn about the natural world and the origins of foods, help them select a wider variety of food, develop and improve social skills, improve retention and observation skills, and foster a respect for the natural environment.

The Teaching Garden is a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Calapooia Food Alliance and under the leadership of a diverse steering committee chaired by Nan Van Sandt. Design and organization is by Kathleen Beeson. If you want to learn more or volunteer, please contact Kathleen Beeson at 847-643-6868, Nan at 541-466-5490, or Kathleen Swayze at 541-409-7315.