Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden 

Bianca Tondo 

Garden Specialist

Dear Kingswood Community,

As the year draws to a close, the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden (SAKG) program has been buzzing with activity. The combination of rain and warm sunny days has brought our garden to life and we’ve worked together with grit and persistence to tackle the many tasks at hand. Through teamwork and determination, we’ve accomplished so much—an incredible way to finish the year!

A Garden in Bloom for 2025

Many classes have taken part in the important work of clearing and turning over garden beds. With these spaces ready, we’ve planted an exciting array of crops, including tricolored zucchini, corn, cucumbers, pumpkins, potatoes, tomatoes and basil.

For a splash of beauty and inspiration, we’ve also planted sunflowers throughout the garden beds. These will bloom into tall, golden bursts next year, offering students a chance to observe nature’s magic and find awe and wonderment in the garden.

Celebrating Our Volunteers

On Tuesday, December 10th, Sonia and I had the privilege of hosting a special lunch to honour our fabulous volunteers. We gathered to enjoy delicious food, share laughs and reflect on the wonderful memories we’ve created together throughout the year.

The heart and soul of the SAKG program are our volunteers. Without their unwavering support, dedication and willingness to lend a helping hand, the program simply couldn’t thrive. Our volunteers have been by our side through sunny days and rainy mornings, preparing ingredients and guiding students with kindness and encouragement.

Each moment they’ve shared with us, whether it’s helping a student cut up a vegetable or ensuring a meal comes together in the kitchen, has made a lasting impact. They exemplify the values of community, teamwork and care and their contributions extend far beyond the garden and kitchen.

Sonia and I extend our deepest gratitude to every volunteer for the time, energy and heart you’ve given to the program this year. You have truly made a difference.

Looking Forward to 2025

As we head into the holiday season, our garden will rest and grow. The crops planted in these final weeks will be ready to harvest and share next year, offering our students a fresh and exciting start to the new term.

A Holiday Wish

Wishing all our students, families, staff and volunteers a safe, joyful and restful holiday season. May your summer be filled with connection, laughter and moments of wonder. Sonia and I are already looking forward to another fantastic year in the SAKG program with you all.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey in 2024.

Happy Gardening and Happy Holidays!