Greenhouse at Carver School for Mathematics, Science and Technology Provides Experiential Learning Experience

DOTHAN, Ala. – Bringing learning to life! Oftentimes, teachers at Dothan City Schools develop creative teaching strategies to allow students to understand concepts in fun and memorable ways. A project underway at Carver School for Mathematics, Science and Technology takes learning to a whole new level with an area that provides imaginative learning.

What started as an idea grew into a much larger vision when Chris Payne, Principal at Carver MST, planted the seeds that he knew one day would bring about more success for the school. In 2021, with the help of the Auburn Extension Service, the school implemented a garden area. Its success led to the start of the school’s garden program. 

A research garden soon took shape, and, with more help from the Auburn Extension Service, the school built a chicken coop just behind the school. The idea of developing an embryology project at Carver MST became a reality. From there, more parts of this larger vision came together, including a picnic area for the students, outdoor raised bed expansion, and a field garden. Payne had another idea to add to the overall garden ecosystem: a greenhouse. 

That greenhouse was recently constructed adjacent to the school campus. The greenhouse is eight feet wide, nine feet tall, and 20 feet long. It serves as a dedicated area where students can study plant growth, contributing to hands-on learning with planting, nurturing, and observing of various vegetation. 

A grant through the Wiregrass RC&D Council provided funding for Carver MST’s greenhouse project. The Council works with people in the community to solve local problems, helping communities grow and prosper. According to their website, RC&D Councils are “dedicated to conserving, enhancing, and developing Alabama to make our state a better place to live, work, and play.” 

The experiential experience presents students with a “living classroom,” allowing teachers to integrate learning opportunities. 

“The greenhouse is really part of a massive expansion we’re wanting to do here at the school,” explained Payne. “It’s a school-wide project, not just one particular class or not a particular grade level – it’s everybody!”

The greenhouse is another way teachers can increase STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education at Carver MST. In addition, the project provides the school with potential community involvement by implementing gardening activities.

“All of the students here at the school go through our science lab. And, so our science lab teacher, Ms. McClenney works very hard on implementing gardening into her curriculum. All the students have an opportunity to participate,” Payne said.

Over the past few weeks, Payne and others have worked to construct raised beds for the plants. These raised beds will allow drainage, offer improved soil quality, provide a layer of protection from pests, and give better access to planting.  

“Students at Carver MST continue to thrive, and these types of projects contribute to that success,” said Dr. Dennis Coe, Dothan City Schools Superintendent. “The greenhouse will not only give students a new perspective on planting, but we hope it will also spark an interest in a potential career down the line in areas such as conservation, horticulture, or agriculture.”

The Carver School for Mathematics, Science and Technology was designated a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.  Only one-percent of schools in the nation have an active Blue Ribbon. The Title I school draws a diverse student body from nine different elementary schools. The hands-on curriculum includes unique projects that promote a foundation for student success.

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