Teacher: Sierra Emanuel

School: Otis Junior Senior High School

Website: otisr3.com

Address: 518 Dungan St, Otis, CO 80743

Grade Level: High School Science

Region: Northeast

Project Title: Patio Garden

Category: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)

Funding Amount Requested: $1,150

Project Description:
I teach high school science at Otis, located on the eastern plains of Colorado. I want to enhance the patio of my science classroom by growing native and low-water plants that will attract birds and pollinators, which will support our classroom discussions about biodiversity. Additionally, I would like to add a rain gauge so my Earth Science class can participate in the CoCoRahs weather reporting program. This project will help connect students with science in a more meaningful way.

Photos:
Photo 1

Impact:
The majority of my students think that science is only a class and not relevant to their daily lives. This patio garden will spark discussions about biodiversity, our impact on wildlife, water usage, and creating something beneficial for the environment. Students will see firsthand how science applies to their lives and take part in a project that positively affects their community.

Use of Funds:
- Raised Beds
- Soil
- Native and Low-Water Plants
- Bird Bath/Feeder
- Watering Implements