Donna Witte, Greg Witte, Laura Wynn and Erika Williams

The team’s innovative teaching idea, “Grow, Build, Thrive,” a hands-on learning program at Nova Roots Academy, is designed to empower kindergarten through 12th grade students, especially those who are neurodivergent or from underserved backgrounds, through interactive and integrated gardening, maker education and life skills development. Students will design and maintain garden beds, learn planting and harvesting techniques, and connect these experiences to nutrition, sustainability and entrepreneurship. Through this project-based learning idea, participants will also build simple tools, create garden-related products and engage in real-world problem solving. According to the team, the program promotes responsibility, teamwork and independence while strengthening fine motor skills, communication and confidence. By combining outdoor learning with creative construction, the hope is that “Grow, Build, Thrive,” cultivates both practical skills and personal growth, ultimately helping students develop a deeper connection to their environment and their own potential. The team plans to use the Voya grant to purchase a raised garden bed, soil, seeds, starter plants, watering system and basic gardening tools.