Thursday, May 28, 2009

question 4--- my hopes and desires for my students

I was asked by my friend, who runs the career ed program at the school, to answer some questions about the horticulture program. Tonight at home I answered all but one. Here is how I answered number 4...

4. What are the desired outcomes for your program? What is your ultimate goal? Reach for the stars with this one people.

Answer... Students will develop and grow their passion, knowledge, confidence, and skills in order to do any or all of the following:

• Obtain a job working with plants.
• Grow a garden in their community.
• Recognize plants as they move about their environment.
• Keep house plants inside their homes.
• Use fresh vegetables and herbs in their cooking.
• Appreciate the beauty of a garden and understand the effort taken to maintain it.

6 comments:

Dana said...

Wayne, I think you wrote very practical goals and I was kinda happy my son reached three of them out of his lifelong interest in Botany plus your teaching. Whether you pick him for cooking group or not this summer,no matter, I really wish you continued success. Keeping an attractive, interesting greenhouse makes a lot of them pay attention. Our family follows the blog to see what is going on even after he finished your class. Mention needs to be made as to the type of teacher you are. The kids amoung themselves and parents who care enjoy that you are not condescending, instead ...humorous but strict when you have to be....and...enjoy your break. this summer Sam is taking a college course and we are also going to Atlantic City as well as doing one final ESY. he says what his ex teacher says, that the absence of grades and pressure make for a happier learning experience...oh and we are Keeping an eye on our corn,peas,melons and lilies at home as well. All the best,see you in passing on campus! Thank you for everything. I know this is a lot to read but it is heartfelt...

walk2write said...

I like your answers, but maybe one more should be considered? "Share with others their love of gardening and perhaps even teach the next generation how rewarding it is." I'll bet you're inspiring some of your students to do just that someday.

Wayne Stratz said...

Dana--- Thanks for the kind words about my teaching. I did find it a rather "practical" list. ??? as for the summer cooking club, I do not do the picking. Scheduling is a job I would not want so I do not complain about the results, however, I have advocated to try to get a student in horticulture from time to time if he/she was left out of the schedule.

Sounds like a great summer is planned. We too have some adventures in our near future.

Wayne Stratz said...

Walk2write--- wonderful idea, and since I never got around to sending the info on Friday, I will add it to the list (not that I couldn't have other wise). Thanks!

Rob (ourfrenchgarden) said...

Belatedly, Wayne your hopes and desires are said by Dana!

Wayne Stratz said...

Rob---- Dana's son was one of 29 students in the upper school program who hope to have a horticulture class this summer. That list makes me smile and gives me hope that my desires will continue to come true