Creating a School Herb Business by Researching Plants and Serving Community Needs

Summary

High school reading students at Center High School launched an herb-growing business designed to serve their school community. Students engaged in research, planning, implementation, and reflection—all aligned with core reading, writing, and speaking standards.

Students began by researching various herbs, comparing growing requirements and usefulness to teachers’ preferences. They surveyed and presented to teachers and administrators to identify specific herb needs, which guided their planting decisions. With input from horticulturists, nutritionists, and small business owners, students planned and executed all aspects of production—planting, maintaining, harvesting, marketing, and selling herbs in creatively decorated school-colored cups.

Throughout the project, students improved their reading comprehension, speaking, and writing skills while also developing responsibility, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. The experience helped struggling readers find joy in learning and build confidence through real-world application. Their efforts resulted in a successful mini-business that not only provided fresh herbs to school staff but also inspired new career interests among students.

Takeaways

This garden project provides a rich opportunity to align reading instruction with authentic, hands-on learning. Through gardening, students will not only develop literacy skills but also build patience, responsibility, and collaboration. They will see first-hand how their actions lead to tangible results, reinforcing their sense of achievement and fostering a deeper connection to their education.

Advice

Start Small and Set Clear Expectations, Use Gardening as a Literacy Bridge, Keep Language and Tasks Accessible, Build Ownership and Responsibility, Celebrate small wins, Integrate Reflection and Real-World Connections, and be Be Flexible and Patient!