A garden is a classroom waiting to be explored.

If you've ever wanted to start a school or community garden but were not sure where to start, the School and Community Gardens course is for you! This self-paced, research-based online class gives you the tools you need to teach youth to garden. Learn how to build a thriving, long-lasting school garden program of any size. 

Topics

  • Learning opportunities in science, math, social studies, art, and more
  • Getting support from school administrators and parents
  • Budgeting and financial resources
  • Site and plant selection
  • Planting, maintenance, harvesting, and recipes

 

Let's Get Growing

Participants continue to have access to the course for one year after enrollment and can ask questions and share ideas with a community of educators across Illinois in the Q&A forum. The course is $15 and participants have access for one year.
Enroll in the Course

How to Enroll in the Course

This course is offered through the Learn @ Illinois Extension platform. If you do not have an existing account, you will need to set one up before enrolling in the class. See below for instructions on setting up an account and enrolling in the course. 

How to set up an account and enroll in the course

  1. Go to Learn @ Illinois Extension.
  2. On the login page, below the "Extension Account Login" button, select the “Create Account” link.
  3. Follow the prompts to create an account. You do not need to create a pin unless you are an Extension volunteer. Providing a phone number is also optional. 
  4. After registering your account, you will be redirected to the Learn @ Illinois Extension dashboard. From there:
    1. Select the "Home" link at the top
    2. Select the "Go to Course" button
    3. In the "Search Courses" box, type "school and community gardens" and hit enter to search
    4. Select the course title, then select the pay button to complete the transaction.
  5. Completing the payment will take you directly to the course.

How to enroll in the course when you already have an account

  1. Go to Learn @ Illinois Extension and login to your account.
  2. This will take you to the enrollment page. Select "Pay" and enter your payment information. The course costs $15. You may need to select the course title to show the pay option.
  3. When payment is complete, you will be taken to the course.

Questions? Please contact us