Kids & Family
River Valley Teacher Gets Fresh Start on Grant for Garden
Sonya Raymond wants to create a nature wonderland for District 113A students. She lost out on one grant to fund it, but she's trying for another.
River Valley fourth grade teacher Sonya Raymond doesn't only talk the talk. Having missed out on a grant to fund a garden for Oakwood and River Valley students, Raymond will "try, try again."
Raymond's attempt to win a $2,500 Thank a Million Teachers grant, but is rallying support for funds from the Seeds of Change program. The program awards two grants for $20,000 and 15, $10,000 grants to fund programs that judges believe "enhance the environmental, economic, and social well-being of gardens, farms, farmers and communities."
The contest is open to public votes, and the voting period ends April 21, at 11 a.m. The 50 applications that receive the most votes will be passed through to the next phase in the evaluation process.
Click here to vote for Raymond's proposal.
"It is our hope that students, and community members, will be able to learn healthier eating habits as they grow and try the fruit of their harvest, and become civic-minded as they share their produce with needy families in the Lemont area," wrote Raymond in her entry. "We are fortunate to have Eagle Scouts, Wellness Committees, Parents, and Garden Clubs ready to help us!"
The garden—which Raymond estimates to be larger than a 25-foot by 25-foot classroom—will happen with or without the grants but the funds, along with help from Eagle Scout candidates, would expedite the process. Some components are already in place, including an enclosed compost heap and a donated rain barrel.
Raymond is undaunted by the possibility of not receiving the grant.
"If we don't get the grants, it just means the project will take more time, but more people will help."
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