By Orit Aviran, Hebrew Day School
Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor is expanding its environmental programming with the launch of a new Community Garden. The initiative marks the next phase in the school’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and environmental education.
This project is made possible through the generous support of the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor and the Zelma Weisfeld Fund. The garden is a collaborative effort, bringing together partners from the Jewish Community Center (JCC) and Jewish Family Services (JFS) to create a shared space for growth and learning.
While Hebrew Day School is already a certified Green School and integrates daily sustainable practices—such as school-wide composting and teaching the values of Shomrei Adamah (protectors of the earth)—this new garden will create a physical “living laboratory” on campus. It will provide students and the broader community with a hands-on space for agricultural education and intergenerational connection.
Call for Volunteers
The school is currently seeking participants to join a Garden Leadership Team. This group will be responsible for the initial planning, design, and ongoing maintenance of the garden space.
The project is open to all community members, regardless of gardening experience—if you can hold a watering can, you’re in! We are looking for individuals interested in outdoor education, sustainable design, or simply helping the school grow its green footprint. We also welcome high schoolers interested in summer volunteering.
Interested in joining the team? Please contact Tamar Jacobson at TJacobson@hdsaa.org to learn more or to sign up for the first planning meeting.