Peck Unveils New Community Garden

The Peck School is buzzing with excitement as it unveils its brand-new community garden, a vibrant green space that promises to offer a unique opportunity for growth, both literally and metaphorically.

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony at an all-school assembly, Head of School Andy Delinsky said, “gardens have the power to teach so many lessons. [Our] garden will be more than a collection of plants, flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables. It’s a place where the seeds we plant today will grow into a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Peck's original community garden, which was initially planted in 2008, needed to be relocated in 2018 due to renovations for a new recess area, playground facilities, and the construction of The Peck Commons. Peck’s commitment to rebuilding a community garden is a testament to the deep sense of stewardship and collaborative spirit that defines the Peck community.

Back to Nature, an ecologically inspired landscape design/build firm in Basking Ridge, has been a long-standing partner of The Peck School. They designed and developed the garden's layout and provided the initial plantings. Past Parents Lisa and David Welsh P‘21 and P‘17 have also played a crucial role, contributing to the project's success.

The Peck Parents Association has been a financial pillar of the project, supporting the garden’s development. They are furthering their commitment by organizing a dedicated parent volunteer committee to assist with garden maintenance throughout the school year and during the summer months.

“The Parents Association is thrilled to have made a meaningful contribution to the school's learning garden,” said PA President Niki Robbins, “knowing that it will not only enhance the beauty of our school but also serve as a dynamic space for students to learn, grow, and connect with nature. We believe that this garden will foster valuable educational experiences, promote community involvement, and inspire a deep appreciation for the environment among our students and the wider community.”

The garden boasts a diverse range of plant beds, featuring vegetables, herbs, and flowers, all carefully chosen to provide educational value and promote sustainability. What's more, each grade will have its very own garden bed, transforming the garden into an educational resource for students of all ages.

The garden's potential extends beyond the educational realm. It has the capacity to serve as a source of fresh produce and herbs for the school's dining hall; championing the farm-to-table concept and reducing the school's carbon footprint through local sourcing.

With its colorful array of plants and the enthusiastic hum of students, The Peck School's community garden is not only cultivating greenery but also nurturing a generation that is deeply attuned to environmental consciousness. It's a blooming success story that embodies the school's values and commitment to fostering growth in every aspect of life.