The San Diego Ag in the Classroom (SDAITC) Garden Grant program provides funding and resources to support school gardens and agricultural education projects in San Diego County. These grants aim to enrich learning experiences by allowing students to engage in hands-on activities that bring subjects such as science, math, art, and social studies to life in an outdoor, interactive setting. By fostering a deeper connection to agricultural practices, the program helps students learn valuable life skills and understand the natural cycles that sustain life. Schools can use these grants to develop gardens that serve as "outdoor classrooms," enabling educators to integrate diverse academic subjects into a practical, garden-based curriculum.
SDAITC offers two types of support for garden projects: in-kind support, which includes physical resources, and technical support, such as expert advice. Monetary grants range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the project's needs and the availability of funds. Applications are evaluated annually, with a focus on projects that align with San Diego County's agricultural definition, which encompasses activities related to cultivating crops, soil management, and raising animals for food and related purposes.
The application process for the Garden Grants is currently open, with submissions due by November 15, 2024. Applications are typically accepted from mid-September to mid-November each year, with the funds distributed in late February to allow schools adequate time to plan and implement their garden projects for the growing season. To apply, applicants need to download the form from SDAITC’s website or contact the organization directly for assistance if technical difficulties arise.
Eligibility is limited to schools within San Diego County that plan to incorporate garden-based learning into their curriculum and are committed to using their gardens to teach about agriculture’s science, art, and business aspects. The program prioritizes applications that highlight a clear educational plan and demonstrate how the garden will be integrated across multiple subjects and age groups.
For additional information or examples of previously funded projects, SDAITC encourages prospective applicants to visit the “News” section on their website or follow their Facebook page. Interested schools can also reach out to SDAITC through their contact information provided on their site for any questions regarding the application process.
