Kent-Meridian High School is proud to celebrate the dedication of a new sensory garden made possible through a partnership with Home Depot. The garden features raised garden beds and accessible seating, creating opportunities for students with mobility challenges and those in inclusive education programs to participate in hands-on agricultural learning. Students will learn how to plant, cultivate, and harvest produce while enjoying an engaging outdoor learning environment.

 This project began with a vision to revitalize the school's aging garden space and became a reality thanks to the efforts of Barbara Arnett, Kent-Meridian High School Speech-Language Pathologist, and Home Depot, which donated $10,000 in materials and volunteer support.

 “Giving our students in inclusive education the chance to engage in hands-on learning outdoors is really special,” said Barbara Arnett. “When you can get out of the classroom, it’s always fun. We do units on the life cycle of plants, and the students help with weeding and planting.”

 The garden will also give back to the community, with student-harvested crops being donated to the Kent-Meridian Food Bank and the Kent Community Food Bank. A commemorative plaque honors Irene Terrado-Paradeza, a Home Depot employee whose contributions helped make this project possible.

 Thank you to everyone who helped create this beautiful space for learning, growth, and community connection!