8 years ago, dozens of Chabot College students, working with 2-3 faculty, transformed a forgotten area of campus into a 7,000 sq. ft. mini-Eden. Chabot’s Maintenance and Operations personnel offered crucial guidance and access to materials. Along the way, the “Knowledge Garden” garnered support from over 3 dozen different entities, groups, companies, and non-profits...not to mention the many community members and family members of Chabot students who have shared their expertise. 

The Knowledge Garden features 10-15 growing areas that are tended to by clubs, classes, and community members. An Outdoor School House sits under a spreading Oak tree. Passion and Purpose students built a lovely Contemplation Pond. Students use upcycled and recycled materials to create outdoor furniture, tool sheds, and composting systems.

A wide variety of organic vegetables and fruits is grown. Seeds come from as far away as Mexico, Afghanistan, and India. The bounty is enjoyed by the Chabot community, including staff and students. More recently, the food has been dispersed to the community through Chabot’s FRESH food distribution initiative. 

On average 1-2 events per month take place in the Knowledge Garden--movie nights, community programs, youth events...even a wedding!  In addition,  many impromptu activities occur, such as teachers bringing their classes, students having lunch, Yoga classes under the oak trees… and so much more. 

Since its inception, The Knowledge Garden, Contemplation Pond, and Outdoor School House have served thousands of students and community members. 

The Knowledge Garden offers many lessons for faculty who work with TEA. Perhaps the most important lesson is--to quote from the film Field of Dreams--”build it and they will come.” Students and teachers crave the multitude of delights that the Knowledge Garden offers. Teaching and learning--and joy-- is enhanced in such a space. There is no comparison to the paltry confines of a “regular” classroom. TEA works with faculty and their institutions to create more inviting spaces on the campus--spaces that honor Nature, and in doing so, inspire students to protect the planet.