SIXTH THROUGH EIGHT-GRADE WINNER: Mary Arndt, from McMath Middle School in Denton
This week we're announcing WFAA's Project Green Eco-Educator winners.
These are teachers in the community who exemplify leadership, creativity, and execution of projects educating students about protecting and improving the environment.
Our sixth through eighth-grade category winner goes to Mary Arndt, from McMath Middle School in Denton.
Mrs. Arndt and her students take care of the herb and flower gardens around campus. From these gardens, they provide flower arrangements in recycled containers for community events and local nursing homes. One of the most meaningful activities for the students has been providing fresh vegetables and herbs to a nearby food pantry.
"I just love to know the fact that I can grow something and give it away ... and somebody else can be benefiting from that," said student Malcolm Buckner.
Mrs. Arndt's garden isn't only making a difference in the community but teaching students valuable life lessons.
"When you see the roots and where it comes from ... it's so interesting because everything has a story to it," said student Rae Perry. "It's really amazing to see how it starts and grows. You know you have to take care of it. That's a lot of things you learn about life ... because taking care of stuff takes work and you have to put in the effort."
Mrs. Arndt's and her students are certainly putting in the effort. As one of this year’s Eco-Educators, Mary received $1,000 donated by WFAA Project Green and KHovnanian Homes to keep her project going. She hopes to get a greenhouse. Congratulations Mary Arndt!