A Honolulu plant nursery is getting a much-needed mini-makeover thanks to a group of aspiring builders. It’s a community project that’s rewarding in more ways than one.
In the middle of Wai-Kahala sits one of the state Department of Education’s most valuable assets. A two-acre plant nursery that’s become an outdoor classroom for high school special education students — a place to learn critical skills.
“It’s following directions, being able to do hand-eye coordination work and then teamwork, working all the way up because we want them to be community contributors,” explained teacher Linda Maeda-Lee. “We want all these kids to excel as much as they can.” Maeda-Lee has been overseeing the nursery for the last eight years.
She said one of the most heart-warming aspects is seeing her students develop over time and bring their training to the workforce. “That’s the main goal, and if they can’t get a job, at least they’re better. They can do things, they can help out at home, so it’s very rewarding,” she said. But the site could use some touch-ups, and that’s where another education initiative comes in. The head of Honolulu Community College’s carpentry program found out about the nursery and brought his students along for a project.
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