Sunnyseed Garden expansion celebrated at Sunnyside Elementary
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Sunnyside Elementary School hosted a lively event on Sept. 12 to celebrate the expansion of its community garden, the Sunnyseed Garden. The project, which has been growing steadily since 2021, has become a symbol of community collaboration, sustainability, and education for the students and the larger Stanstead area. With the new additions of a passive solar dome greenhouse and an outdoor classroom-kitchen, the garden now plays a significant role in both the curriculum and the local food security efforts.
Marie-Andrée Lafrance, Community Learning Centre Coordinator, one of the event’s speakers, opened with a welcoming address, stating, “We thank you for joining us as we roll out the red carpet for our partners and to celebrate the expansion of our garden.” She highlighted the bilingual nature of the school, with presentations throughout the day given in both English and French.
From seed to success
The Sunnyseed Garden began as a small project in 2021, spearheaded by Sunnyside’s staff and students. Over time, it has grown into a community-supported initiative with far-reaching benefits. During the event, one speaker provided context, saying, “It started, as all things in a garden do, as a seed. An idea from [someone]… but like any good seed, it needed room, and eventually, it outgrew its pot.” The garden’s expansion was made possible by several partnerships and financial contributions, which have allowed it to thrive.
Principal Amy Gallant, who played a central role during the event, explained the broader educational mission of the garden: “The purpose of this was to create a space for learning in and among nature and to create greater opportunities for sustainable, healthy eating habits for our students.” The newly installed greenhouse has allowed the growing season to extend, enabling nearly 500 pounds of vegetables to be harvested already this year.
