Monday, October 19, 2020 – With the announcement of the construction of the new library, Sooke Elementary Librarian Liz Stannard saw an opportunity, grown from the pandemic, and rooted in community values that the district was happy to support.
In June, as schools around the province innovated their teaching styles, Sooke Elementary began planting a native plant garden outside the school. “We are continuing this project and, with the fall rains beginning, are seeking to acquire some native plant transplants which we can establish on our school campus,” Stannard shares. Hearing of the lot clearing as construction on the library begins, Stannard wondered if there was an opportunity to acquire some transplants from the library site.
“Several teachers and students have been working hard to acquire, tend and learn about native species so that we can readily share about stewardship of our unique ecosystem,” Stannard elaborates on the project. Upon receipt of the request, District of Sooke Manager of Parks and Environmental Services Laura Hooper was elated, “I am inspired by this generation of youth in our community who are remarkably engaged in the environment. Thank you to their teachers for planting this seed of inspiration and to Sooke Elementary for their innovation and efforts.”
Students and teachers from Sooke Elementary will be acquiring sword ferns, salal, oregon grape, and ocean spray as they expand their garden.
Media contact:
Christina Moog, Communication Coordinator
Tel: 250.642.1634, ext. 678
cmoog@sooke.ca