Garden and Playground
The Metz Elementary garden acts as a central point of parental involvement in the school. When the school moved into its new building in, there was designated space to curate a personalized garden for the students at Metz.
Without the assistance of Metz parents, the garden would not have been the success that it turned out to be. Parents contributed their time and resources into creating the garden. In an anecdote from Lupe Ramos, a teacher at Metz Elementary, parents helped transport mulch to help create the garden with their vehicles.
The garden also acts as an educational tool for students.
“We write about our plants, read books about gardening and plants, and study seed germination”- Eva Rosenthal, Metz Elementary School teacher
Through the use of signage placed within the garden, students are able to learn about plants and animals that they are also able to physically see inside the garden. The knowledge gained through involvement with the garden does not stop at school. Eva Rosenthal recalls that the students often communicated these lessons to their parents and take charge in produce selection for their families.
In 1984 Metz Elementary completed phase II of its playground construction. The construction of this playground largely was a product of the work of the PTA. The total cost of the playground equipment was $3,000. At this point in time the PTA was also planning phase III which would include the addition of more playground equipment. This structure was also intended to be accessible to other children who live in the neighborhood.
In relation to the construction of the playground the PTA was described as:
“…one of a united effort among parents from Metz, Barrington, the PTA and the community.”- Diane Castaneda, Metz Elementary parent
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