April 27, 2026 - From planting seeds to observing animal footprints, Bill Brown Elementary’s new Garden Lab is full of learning opportunities for every age. PTA member Kyle Burns has taken Bill Brown’s previously forgotten garden space and given it purpose with the help of the campus and community.
The proposal received an Innovation Grant from the Comal Education Foundation in Fall of 2024. With those funds, the campus PTA and a group of teachers were able to create the new Garden Lab and open it for lessons this school year.
“In the garden we practice science, engineering, math, and hopefully English language arts soon,” explained Burns. “We take existing lessons from the Year at a Glance curriculum and bring it outside to provide a more enhanced and hands-on learning experience.”
Burns comes with 20 plus years of experience in education and administration, and is eager to return to the classroom. With her expertise and the help of campus support, the garden has become generally self-sustainable, serving as a space for enrichment without taxing on more work for teachers.
“The initial setup was the hardest in terms of labor,” said Burns. “We have made a point to integrate native plants like wildflowers and perennials, so they return each year.”
Each grade level has experienced a Garden Lab lesson so far, with projects ranging from building greenhouses to creating compost from raw materials and plastic wrappers. The projects allow students to observe lessons from textbooks in real time, increasing the instructional connections students make.
It is no doubt Bill Brown students radiate a newfound passion for learning, showing an eagerness to take part in garden lessons.
“I’ve learned about adaptations,” shared fifth grader Alexander Burns. “It is very hands-on and it makes learning super fun!”
First graders Calloway Bealor and Penelope Rodriguez shared their favorite projects so far.
“I really liked making our own plants!” said Bealor. “We planted squash and cucumbers.”
Rodriguez enjoyed making boats with her classmates, “It was so fun to put acorns in them and make it look like a real ship with people inside!”
Bill Brown Elementary has become a literal example of Growing Greatness, as they grow students' minds by exploring the physical world. Through connecting the community and campus, students are developing a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Thank you Kyle Burns, the Bill Brown PTA, and staff for making new Paths to Success possible!
Photo Descriptions
- Bill Brown PTA member Kyle Burns assisting in a Garden Lab lesson.
- Bill Brown first graders partaking in a Garden Lab lesson.
- Bill Brown first grader packing soil in a greenhouse.
- The Bill Brown Garden Lab.