Save the Montclair Elementary Garden Program

Mr Kelsey is a gem!!

Best of luck!

The kids love garden. They need new administration.

My daughter LOVES garden. It's gotten her to eat vegetables again! Please continue it!

Good luck! Kindergarten LOVED Garden class when I was there ❤️

please find a way to save this program.

We love the community garden and Mr. Kelsey, please let the students keep the program

So very important.

Save this resource

Gardens being such a vital dimension of learning that cannot be taught inside of classrooms. Please do not take this opportunity away from the students, future students, and the livelihood of an individual who is passionate about their job.

Save the garden!!

This class is essential and so nourishing for the kids.

I’m frustrated that we even have to sign a petition for this. It’s so obvious how important and special the garden program is to MES.

As another open their own divergent child I think Mr. Kelsey‘s garden class has been very beneficial for my daughter with only learning about basic foods and how they grow but also helps her sensory needs. She’s come home numerous times excited to share with me about what she learned and even been given seeds and tips for Mr. Kelsey himself as far as how to grow things, but my daughter would be excited about working on with me.

I am are writing to express my strong support for Mr. Kelsey and to advocate for the continuation of his role as Garden Teacher at Montclair Elementary School. Mr. Kelsey is an outstanding educator whose work has become an essential part of what makes our school community so special. His garden program is not just a class—it is a hands-on learning experience that inspires curiosity, responsibility, and a deep appreciation for nature. Through daily lessons on gardening, flowers, vegetables, and insects students gain practical skills while also learning about science, sustainability, and healthy living. What sets Mr. Kelsey apart is his ability to engage every student. Children who may struggle in a traditional classroom often thrive in the garden, where they can learn by doing. His patience, enthusiasm, and dedication create an inclusive environment where all students feel capable and valued. The joy and excitement students bring home after his classes speak volumes about his impact. Beyond the classroom, the garden itself stands as a living symbol of his hard work and commitment. It is a space that fosters community, encourages teamwork, and connects students to the natural world in meaningful ways. For many families, the garden program is one of the defining features of Montclair Elementary. Eliminating Mr. Kelsey’s position would mean losing an irreplaceable part of our school’s identity and a program that has had lasting positive effects on students year after year. We respectfully urge you to preserve funding for Mr. Kelsey’s position and ensure that future students continue to benefit from this invaluable program.

Please keep this fantastic learning experience in place for future students!

4 months ago Featured

My daughter is a special-needs student and in her recent IEP everyone spoke about what a positive learning environment the garden is. My daughter, who can be very challenging to engage, thrived under Mr. Kelsey’s teaching. This position and program should be funded.

My kids talk about garden and what they learn there almost every day! Please reconsider this and what it means to the kids.

We love Mr. Kelsey!!

We need the garden for our future generations! We need Mr. Kelsey’s presence and leadership. He is a priceless treasure that we need to protect.