Concrete paths were recently poured at Iola Elementary School as work continues on a memorial garden that is now one step closer to completion.
The garden, located between the school’s second- and third-grade wing and its fourth- and fifth-grade wing, has been years in the making.
“It’s been a process of about four years,” said Principal Andy Gottlob. “We’re hoping to get it completed maybe this spring or summer.” He added that the goal is to have the project finished by the beginning of next school year.
Although the garden will memorialize multiple individuals connect-ed to the district, the idea began following the tragic passing of beloved Iola Elementary teacher Audrey Gardner. Gardner died in December 2018 at the age of 41 after teaching in the district for 16 years.
“From there, the idea grew to become an all-encompassing memorial garden recognizing those who have passed away and had a connection to the district,” Gottlob said. In addition to honoring Gardner’s memory, the garden will include space for plaques recognizing other teachers or students, and possibly retired educators.
Large concrete walls on either side of the garden will hold the memorial plaques.
The space is designed to be more than just structural elements. “Our plans include bushes and plants to be planted throughout,” Gottlob said. Gardner’s brother, Paul, who works with landscaping companies in the Kansas City area, has helped spearhead the project and plans to donate labor and various plants for the garden.
Community support has also played a key role in bringing the project to fruition. “After Audrey passed away, her parents had a lot of donations that they gave us — over $4,000,” Gottlob said. Since then, additional community donations have helped make the memorial gar-den a reality.
A final name for the space has not yet been selected. “It may just be the Memorial Garden, since it will include multiple memorials,” said Gottlob.
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