May 5, 2026
Deanna G. Taylor Academy's Mrs. Rachael Fernandes is proud to announce that she has been awarded two certificates through Union County's 2026 Plant a Seed program — one for the Kids Dig In! School Garden Grant and one for the Fruitful Futures Tree Grant! Funded through the Union County Open Space, Recreation & Historic Preservation Trust Fund, these grants help schools and community partners grow existing gardens or establish new ones, providing interactive learning experiences focused on agriculture, sustainability, and healthy food.
The Fruitful Futures Tree Grant provides a fruit tree to be planted on-site, serving as a long-term reminder of the importance of conservation and providing a sustainable food source for years to come. When children engage in gardening programs as part of their school curriculum, health outcomes improve, school performance increases, pro-environmental attitudes develop, and social and emotional interactions benefit! Mrs. Fernandes' efforts in writing and securing both grants will leave a lasting impact — giving our students hands-on learning experiences while cultivating a greener, healthier community for years to come! Great work, Mrs. Fernandes, congratulations!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsideone #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
The Fruitful Futures Tree Grant provides a fruit tree to be planted on-site, serving as a long-term reminder of the importance of conservation and providing a sustainable food source for years to come. When children engage in gardening programs as part of their school curriculum, health outcomes improve, school performance increases, pro-environmental attitudes develop, and social and emotional interactions benefit! Mrs. Fernandes' efforts in writing and securing both grants will leave a lasting impact — giving our students hands-on learning experiences while cultivating a greener, healthier community for years to come! Great work, Mrs. Fernandes, congratulations!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsideone #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities