School gardens provide more than just fresh produce or appealing landscapes; they serve as educational spaces and tranquil retreats. The Office of Climate Action and Resilience acknowledges the crucial role of volunteers in maintaining these spaces.
The Friends in Gardening (FiG) Award, established in 2023 by the Central Texas School Garden Network, honors exceptional school garden volunteers. On May 19, Mary K. Priddy, Coordinator of the Central Texas School Garden Network, awarded the third annual FiG Award to Abbey Seidensticker, Chair of the School Garden Committee at Zilker Elementary School.
Garret Nick, Abbey’s nominator and colleague, praised her efforts: “Abbey was the primary force behind resurrecting [the garden] out of the weed jungle it had become during Covid.” He added that her work allowed them to continue and expand their garden program to benefit all 500 students. “The kids love to interact with her and feed off of her enthusiasm for sharing her knowledge of wildflowers, bugs, vegetables, and herbs,” he noted.
Under Abbey’s leadership, Zilker’s gardens have flourished. Students engage with the gardens as an outdoor classroom where they plant, harvest, and maintain its beauty. Abbey aims to create a space where all students can enjoy nature’s benefits.
As part of her recognition for winning the FiG Award, Abbey received a $50 Central Market gift card, a certificate of recognition, and the Golden Gnome trophy.
Research indicates that time spent outdoors supports healthier and smarter children. For those interested in greening their school’s campus further information is available through the Bright Green Future Grants program.
