by Dominic Ramirez

Following the construction of a 6,000 square foot garden, St. John Bosco is getting students more involved in the food-making process with agriculture classes and a Horticulture Club.

The garden is located beyond the left field fence of the baseball field. Construction of the garden, which consists of eight planter beds, one vineyard and one citrus orchard, broke ground in January and was completed over the Summer.

In the wake of the new garden’s construction, students founded the Horticulture Club, which is open to anyone on campus who is passionate about plants and gardening. In addition, agriculture classes are available to juniors and seniors.

Prominent figures involved with the horticulture program at St. John Bosco include Mr. Nathan Corkhill, moderator of the Horticulture Club, Mrs. Diaz, a master chef and leader of the Bosco Bread Company, and Ms. Aleshire, a master gardener who helps with gardens in schools across Los Angeles.

The food grown in the garden is sold in the student store in menu items such as breakfast burritos or zucchini bowls, which can be bought and eaten by the entire student body.

“The original design is built for growing food on campus that students can have for lunch and snack, which gives students a farm-to-table experience,” said Mr. Corkhill.

Students in the agriculture class learn about plants and get hands-on experience in the garden as well as the kitchen. The experience of growing and cooking their own food prompts healthy eating among the student body and teaches valuable life skills.

The garden was also recently sponsored by Whole Kids, which is a non-profit organization established by Whole Foods. The Whole Kids foundation is dedicated to helping kids eat healthier, nutrient-rich food.

Even though agricultural classes are only for upperclassmen, students can still participate in activities through the Horticulture Club.

“The [agriculture] class and the [horticulture] club are very similar, but if you are into it [the club] can be as an extension of the class. There is a lot more cooking and planting in the club,” said Kaimana Storch, president of the Horticulture Club.

If any students are interested in joining the Horticulture Club, contact Mr. Corkhill at ncorkhill@bosco.org.