ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — ROCK ISLAND, ILL – Lindsay Russell works as the secretary at Denkmann Elementary School in Rock Island where she recognized a kindergarten teacher impacting students outside of the classroom.
That kindergarten teacher is Jennifer Kuth.
“Jen's second home is probably here in her garden. We do say it's hers because she definitely tends to all of it all year round,” Russel said.
Knuth not only teaches kindergarten students, she created a nature space for the whole school which allows students to enjoy nature, right outside the classroom door. That is why Russell nominated Kuth for the Pay It Forward Award, sponsored by Ascentra Credit Union.
Jennifer Created the 7 Habits Garden 6 years ago, named after the principles Denkmann follows closely. Some students tend to the boxes while some work on planning for the garden.
"So, each box, there's 7 boxes for the 7 habits and we have every class tend to their box and some plan annuals. Some plan perennials. So yeah! Some do a little bit of both,” Kuth explains.
While not tending to the garden with students, Knuth works on the garden with her husband. They plant all sorts of vegetation, from flowers to vegetables. The garden's goal is to provide a unique way for students to learn about plants and food.
"I think it's a great learning opportunity for the kids. It's an outside tool that we use and they can actually plant annuals and seeds. They get to see the life cycle from seed to flower. Which is an awesome experience. Some kids have never planted before," Kuth says.
Jennifer wants to show students how beautiful nature can be through her passion for watching kids learn hands-on. The size of the garden shows its upkeep is no easy feat.
“Oh my… well it's just a passion. I just love it. I think it's exciting for the kids… I think they… I do it for them,” Kuth says.
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for his or her community? News 8 and Ascentra Credit Union would like to help you Pay it Forward to them. Click here to nominate someone you know.