On September 17, Wildwood's school grounds were buzzing with activity. The sun was shining as students gathered to put shovel to soil, planting native species that will fill the yard with colour in spring.

The garden takes the shape of a turtle.

The native plant garden was designed with care by teacher Jennifer Hamond-Adair. It is in the shape of a turtle, and divided into four sections which make up a medicine wheel. The flowers which have been planted in each quadrant will bloom to fill in the yellow, red, black, and white sections. Local prairie plants like like prairie clover, yarrow, and anise hyssop were chosen to provide habitat for pollinators and to introduce students to native species.

In addition to looking beautiful, the species chosen are useful. Some plants, like sage, will be used for gifting and ceremony, while edible plants include rhubarb, saskatoons, and haskaps.

As they plant, the students are curious. "How much water do we use? Why do we lay cardboard on the soil? How deep should I plant the roots?" For some of them, this is their first time planting. Younger students plant with the help of their care partners.

The native plant garden is just one initiative under the Wildwood Playground Project, a community-led effort to revitalize Wildwood’s School grounds. Wildwood Playground Project Chairperson Elya Lam and Fundraising Coordinator Kat Lysak were hands-on during the planting, helping students bring to life the project they and others have invested so much time in. The previous week, a number of trees had been planted around the yard to provide shade and greenery, as well as fruit for the community to enjoy. Multiple future stages are planned, including both additional outdoor learning spaces, play structures, and a sports court. Visit @playwildwood on Instagram to see more about this wonderful initiative.

Contributors to the Wildwood Playground Project include Chairperson Elya Lam, Fundraising Coordinator Kat Lysak, and Teacher Jennifer Hamon-Adair.