Youth Education Programs
Herbie the Seed and the Root Viewer Program
 Master Gardeners (MGs) visit second grade classrooms in East Jefferson County in the spring, and help students make root viewers using five different seeds. MGs also share posters, poems, a puppet skit (Herbie the Seed) and a song with the children, making a fun filled hour long program for each class. Children in class at Chimacum Creek told Glen Koch (of Herbie the Seed fame), he should be on American Idol and that he would definitely make the Top Five! (2011 update)
We have a lot of fun in the classrooms and in working with each other and we hope to have more volunteers next year. If you don't want to stand up in front of the classroom, you should know that there are many ways to help "behind the scenes."
Check the calendar for the dates and locations.
For additional information, contact Glen Koch for sign-up details for Glen’s email is simplyorganic@yahoo.com
A Special “Thank you”
This year two of our “cornerstones” decided to retire from Herbie the Seed. Dana Purnell and Pamela Scharaga were both coordinators and put a huge amount of love, effort and time into the program. The Herbie the Seed/Root Viewer Program would not be what it is today without them. They will be missed greatly. Now that I, along with my wife Laurel are doing the coordination I feel a special gratitude and appreciation for their efforts. Thank you! Dana and Pamela so VERY much!
2011 Update by Glen Koch
The 2011 program experienced the same pains as the school districts are feeling, a reduction in the number of classes with more students in each class. Most of the classes we visited had 25+ students which added a personnel and logistical challenge. Some of the schools have chosen to combine grades. We are very pleased that we have returned to four classes at Grant St. Chimacum had its usual four classes and Quilcene one. Swan School decided to go to an every two year schedule because they are combining 1st and 2nd graders and wanted the program to be new to all students.
With the loss of Dana and Pam, I was wondering if we could pull this year off, but to my delight the “Veteran Herbeez” stepped up along with another enthusiastic group of interns to make the classes a joy to do. Those of you who stepped up to do “posters”, Thank you.
The teacher evaluation letters have started to come in and all I have to say is “we have a large fan base and it’s growing every year. Here is an example from Sheri Shaw at Grant Street : “The presentation was very well organized. The students were engaged and on task. Excellent use of visuals and incorporating music. Student to adult ratio was low (4 students to 1 adult) and this was very helpful!! Excellent follow up activities.”
My thanks and appreciation goes out to all the MGs and interns who both participated in the classes or worked on logistical support. This program would not exist without you. I would also like to thank the teachers and schools for opening up this wonderful opportunity to interact with the children. And of course thanks to the 4H Program.
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