Inspired to cultivate an inclusive garden space for students, staff, and the community, the El Paso High School Garden club invites individuals of all ages, interests, and gardening experiences to visit the garden!  

Recognizing the need to promote education, sustainability, mental health well-being, nutrition, and community, staff from El Paso High School including Sarah Renteria, Luis Loweree, and Jessica Silva came together to establish the El Paso High School Garden Fund in 2021. 

“The PdNCF provides organizations like ours with critical support to serve our community. It's priceless to have the Foundation's assistance to develop capacity while we focus on our mission,” says El Paso High School, Magnet Programs Coordinator, Luis Loweree.   

With additional support and efforts of El Paso High School principal, Mark Paz, El Paso Independent School District, and La Semilla Food Center, the garden allows for the community to explore, create, and work as a team.  

The garden serves as a counterpoint to the traditional classroom, providing students and teachers with rich learning opportunities in a unique setting. Loweree adds, “It fosters mindfulness and a deeper understanding of our connection to such fundamental concepts like water, energy, land, life, and food.” 

Students are especially excited about the addition of the new garden and having a new space to call their own.  

Presently, the El Paso High School Garden Fund is working towards reaching their fundraising goal to help cover the costs of the initial garden build which connects to The Cooper Garden, a native plant garden at the high school dedicated to alumnus Judge Herbert "Tio" Cooper. 

“We've almost reached our goal to cover the cost of the initial garden build. The EPHS Garden is just getting started, so any additional money that we raise is especially valuable, allowing us to purchase materials,” says Loweree. 

To learn more about the garden or to donate a gift visit pdnfoundation.org. You can also follow ephsgardenclub on Instagram for community event announcements or contact El Paso High School to learn about volunteer opportunities.