On Thursday, September 12th, Pam Giannonatti and Tyson Legler from Fry’s Food Stores presented the students and staff of Skyview School with a $10,000 donation to support their Garden Science Program. Prescott Mayor Phil Goode and City Councilwoman Lois Fruhwirth, also attended the ceremonial check presentation.
A representative of Fry’s Food Stores reached out to Ashley Fine, Skyview’s Garden Sciences Teacher, saying, “We came across Skyview School’s Garden Science Program in our recent search of amazing organizations in the state who have programs that align with sustainability, improving food security, and/or eliminating waste. Fry’s Food Stores awards grant-funds through their Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation, supporting nonprofit organizations, social entrepreneurs, and creative thinkers who are focused on these pillars.”
Ms. Fine was very surprised to learn this boon was headed Skyview’s way. “I was extremely grateful for this unexpected donation! In addition to upgrading and sustaining garden infrastructure, I hope that with Skyview’s students, we can begin experimenting with Agrivoltaics.” Agrivoltaics is the practice of using the same space to harness solar power while growing crops.
Skyview School has gradually expanded its school garden program over the last 15 years. The campus is home to a quarter acre food forest, supporting fruit trees, native plants, and a variety of rain harvesting and water conservation infrastructure, as well as multiple edible gardens and small pocket gardens for pollinators sprinkled throughout the campus. Kindergarten through 8th grade students use the gardens to learn core academic concepts in science and social studies, as well as how food systems interact with the environment, people, history, and culture.
Fry’s/ Kroger’s Zero Hunger Zero Waste Foundation aims to increase access to fresh, affordable food for millions of Americans, while also reducing waste, optimizing water use, and practicing sustainable sourcing across the supply chain.
In addition to garden work parties and community events (both on and off campus), Skyview offers tours of their school gardens as well as numerous volunteer opportunities. Contact the school if you would like to learn more or get involved in their garden program.