Tech billionaire Larry Ellison is to thank for a new garden provided to the students at Gerald Ford Elementary School in Indian Wells, CA. A teacher at the school wrote to the Oracle CEO and requested help in funding a small garden area, to which Ellison responded generously.

Ellison’s staff designed and installed a complete garden area at the school complete with a gazebo, eight planter beds, and fruit trees. Fifth grade teacher Kim McGrath was thrilled by the philanthropist’s kind contribution.

She said, “Kids love to be outdoors and they love to get their hands dirty.” Since the installment, the students have planted a “salad garden” of lettuce, tomatoes, broccoli, and other vegetables that they will harvest later and serve to their parents.

Through Ellison’s donation, the students gain an outdoor area in which to read or study and will acquire a hands-on learning experience in planting, harvesting, composting, healthy eating, responsibility through caring for their crops, and science skills.

“It’s a great sense of pride for the kids,” said McGrath. “They really have taken ownership of it and take care of it.

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