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Science Education and Employment Development (SEED)SEED will create a continuous pathway of educational opportunities for children from elementary school, into middle and high school, through the university, and on to employment. This program involves people from the public and private sector, the community, the school district, and the University. Unlike other programs which offer a single experience, SEED would provide children with a continuous variety of opportunities. In 1996, SEED began its efforts by funding the Gardening Angels. This project provided an opportunity for approximately 60 elementary school children in the Mendota School area and Vera Court neighborhood, an underserved area in Madison, to learn about science and nutrition while they tended several garden plots. Other project goals were to (1) offer a positive alternative to violence; (2) provide a better food supply; (3) develop hobbies and nurturing skills; (4) address social and academic issues which aid in academic achievement; (5) create a sense of community; (6) create linkages between primary schools and the University; and (7) provide learning opportunities and experience for university students. Over the next five years, SEED will expand to include the Sherman Middle School, East High School, and the Oneida's Turtle School. For more information contact Kevin Niemi at phone: (608) 262-5480, or email: kjniemi@facstaff.wisc.edu. |
