Beneath the early June sun, the courtyard of Springfield Middle School buzzed with activity as teachers, community partners and volunteers came together to breathe life into a longawaited project: the Springfield Middle School Community Garden.
What began as a simple idea to connect students with the joys of gardening has now taken root—thanks to the generous support, hands-on leadership and collaboration of local businesses and school advocates.
The district proudly recognizes and extends its deepest gratitude to:
•Hoen’s Garden Center of Holland—partners Justin Hoen and Theresa Hoen
•Springfield Schools Foundation—Barrie Howell, president
•Principal Jeff Pendry— SMS
•Amber Poponak, SMS science teacher and garden leader
•Kelsey DePompei, SMS school counselor
•Reed Sweederman (pending appointment as Clean and Green Club president and SHS student).
What was once an empty lawn space now holds six newly planted raised garden beds—the beginning of an outdoor classroom and a living laboratory where students will experience firsthand the science of plant life, the importance of sustainability and the simple joy of harvesting something they helped grow.
“This project has been years in the making, with many thoughtful steps along the way,” said Principal Pendry. “First came the vision and the materials to build the containers, then the planting items, the volunteers and the irrigation needed to sustain the garden. We’re grateful to see it coming together in such a meaningful way. This space will provide both learning opportunities and a sense of ownership for our students— and we are just getting started.”
The media day and donation drop-off was a hands-on effort. With guidance from Justin Hoen and volunteer leadership from Amber and Kelsey, the team filled garden beds with nutrient-rich compost and planted an assortment of vegetables.
“Once these plants—like zucchini—begin to grow, there will be an abundance to harvest,” said Hoen. “And the more you pick, the more the plants will produce. It’s a beautiful cycle. Just remember: it’s about watering the roots, not the leaves. I always tell people—you can’t quench your thirst with a shower. Plants need water at the root to truly thrive.”
Poponak, whose dedication to the project over the past year helped bring it to fruition, added, “We are inviting both students and community members to step into leadership roles by volunteering in the garden this summer— watering, nurturing and harvesting the plants as they grow. Not only will this teach practical science lessons, but it will also allow students to experience the reward of cultivating food themselves.”
The garden also supports SMS science curriculum through its adjacent greenhouse spaces, where students explore concepts such as germination and irrigation.
Springfield Schools Foundation President Barrie Howell reflected on the broader impact of the project, “It’s amazing to see this vision take shape. One of our hopes was to expose students to vegetables they may not have tried before—and to let them see the entire process, from planting to harvest. The pride and joy that comes with growing something with your own hands is truly special.”
DePompei echoed that sentiment, “This is about more than just growing plants. We are teaching sustainability, leadership, responsibility— and providing an opportunity for joy. The lessons here will last long after the summer harvest.”
Call for Volunteers
As the garden grows, community involvement is key. An upcoming volunteer signup will be shared for those interested in:
•Watering the garden (recommended every two to three days once established)
•Harvesting produce throughout the summer months
•Supporting ongoing garden care and sustainability efforts “We welcome anyone who would like to help nurture this space,” said Poponak. “And yes—volunteers who help harvest are welcome to take some of the fruits of their labor home.”
To sign up, go to https://forms.gle/o5mNHRSL 5jPKGzKZ9 or email taylerredinger@springfieldschools. org or amberpopon ak@springfield-schools.org.
