The Pond

"If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water."

Loren Eisley, The Immense Journey, 1957

If you were to stop by the pond and garden today, you will witness for yourself how the movement of water brings science to life. The project was designed for many reasons, all of which should make the students of Haworth gain appreciation for their surroundings and how they can interact with them. The idea for the pond and garden grew because I was the hands-on science teacher for grades 1-8. In class I would try to make habitats and lessons for students to better understand their world. However, I knew my students would benefit most from realistic applications of their curriculum. I approached Dr. Eichenholtz with the idea and he told me to write a grant and speak with Ms. Cattani. She had similar visions for the school and found the perfect spot, in the unused area near the new building.

The Northern Valley Educational Foundation Min-Grant generously donated the money for the project. The grant was awarded in June and construction began in August. I went to Cleatus Farms Nursery, in Northvale, for help planning the area. They were instrumental in guiding me on how to properly construct the pond but also sold me all the supplies needed at cost. Over the summer, the summer custodial staff helped me dig the pond's shelves, lay the liner, and place the stones. My husband put in the filter, skimmer, and waterfall. I was overwhelmed with joy when we first turned on the pump and the waterfall came to life! More money was needed then expected for the rock pallets, which left me no money for plants. I went back to Cleatus and asked to set up a registry for the items still needed. The parents of Haworth rose to the occasion and purchased every plant and pond supply needed. Then Mr. MacBeth and other volunteers took the time to plant all the shrubs that Mrs. Galla carefully arranged around the pond. People keep telling me how lovely the garden looks and it is because all of these people.

Over the next week, students will be planting winter vegetables and bulbs in the raised beds, my husband built. In the spring, students will have a variety of hands-on experiences to learn from. The pond offers a great location to watch Koi grow and tadpoles go through metamorphosis. Older students can take water samples of our pond and compare it to Haworth's pond. The butterfly garden will be a great place to watch Monarchs hatch, and bird feeders will bring a variety of song birds to sing to us. Benches and tree stumps make it possible for any class to go outside and read. Over the winter students will learn how to recycle their lunch wastes by using compost containers. This way students may use their own fertile soil they created for their garden. Each grade will help plant and maintain the flower/vegetable beds outside the pond's gate. Idealistically students will grow food that they can take home and eat. Overall the Haworth community has invested themselves in a project I know will have lasting memories for the children! Thank you.

Anna Wimer

Haworth Teacher