Students at the Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School East Campus on Broad Street now have a peaceful, outdoor space for relaxation, reflection and reconnection.
A new sensory garden at the K-eighth grade school was recently made possible through state funding and local advocacy and the school held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 14 to celebrate its official opening. It was built using $100,000 in state funding secured with the help of state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler.
“This garden is such a lovely space, and I am so glad I could do my part to help make it a reality,” Fiedler said at the event. “It makes me happy to think that when a kid has a tough day, they can come out here to relax or find that connection they need. That’s something I really think every student should have.”
Sensory gardens are specially designed to stimulate the five senses and promote emotional regulation, movement and mental wellness. The new garden features a variety of flowers and herbs, soft and textured pathways, interactive music stations and future plans for an outdoor pizza oven where students can learn how to properly bake a pie.
Students, teachers and staff gathered for the celebration, marking the addition of what many hope will become a daily resource for learning and self-care.
According to the American Horticultural Society, sensory gardens are especially helpful for students with sensory processing challenges, such as autism, OCD and learning disabilities. However, educators say all students benefit from spaces that promote mindfulness and nature connection.
The project is part of Fiedler’s ongoing effort to ensure every school in her district has access to green space or an active play area. Other schools that have received funding for similar projects include Key School, Furness High School, Jenks Elementary, Kirkbride Elementary, Taggart Elementary and Southwark Elementary.
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