January 21, 2022, Fairview, OR – Reynolds School District’s Community Transition Program (CTP) built two greenhouses for the start of their new business, called Sweet Gum & Cedar. The name comes from local trees at a nearby park that the students toured. This upcoming spring, CTP students plan to sell vegetable starts, flowers and hanging baskets and garden-themed art created by the students.
The CTP students received plant donations from the Wood Village Fred Meyer and seeds donated from Park Rose Hardware. These donations enabled them to learn how to care and propagate the flowers and experimented with planning different things from the seed and ultimately learn about plant care. The Japanese Garden in Gresham gave the CTP students a tour to show them what they are doing in their greenhouses. The CTP students are planning future trips to local farms and nurseries to learn from others. CTP also received a $1,000 grant from the Reynolds Education Foundation to purchase more gear to expand the greenhouse program.
“We truly appreciate the community's support in helping us start our garden and greenhouse program. The students are gaining so much practical knowledge,” stated Christina Bederka, Transition Specialist for CTP. “We've only just begun, and we look forward to the fruits of our labor this spring,” she added. “One of Reynolds School District’s core beliefs is that equitable practices allow everyone within the Reynolds community to thrive. CTP students’ hard work as well as the community and district support to the CTP program showcases that belief. We are so proud of the work that CTP students have done and will continue to do with this project,” stated Dr. Danna Diaz, Superintendent of Schools, Reynolds School District.
Reynolds Community Transition Program serves students with disabilities ages 18 to 21 as they learn and grow in their independence as young adults. You can follow CTP’s progress and business on Instagram at @sweetgumandcedar.
About Reynolds School District:
As a community, we prepare lifelong learners to achieve their full potential in a complex and interconnected world. Reynolds School District recognizes the diversity and worth of all individuals and groups in our society. Reynolds School District Board of Education ensures that all educational programs, activities, and employment will be free of discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, parental or marital status, or age.
Contact: Steve Padilla, Assistant Director of Public Relations and Partnerships – spadilla@rsd7.net; 707.330.6559
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