Post by summer team member Cindy Poundstone.
Who are the teachers of Canopy Life Academy?
At our school, EVERYONE on campus is considered a teacher! This model helps students understand that we can learn from everyone and we are all lifelong learners.
For example, recently our fourth grade class was studying the growth cycles of seeds. The lesson offered the opportunity to introduce the class to Mr. Peter, the gardener, as an expert on the choosing, planting, and growing of seeds. As you can imagine, he was received with enthusiasm.
Mr. Peter introduced himself as Farmer Peter and told the students how he first became interested in planting and how he continues to expand his knowledge.
Peter told the class how he was introduced to the basic concepts of farming in his early education and it captured his interest. Unfortunately, the passing of his father and consequent family responsibilities shortened his school career. He became a worker on a tea plantation and later a security guard. He met and married a lady who works for a local nursery tending plants and once again his love for the outdoors and growing was ignited! God was indeed looking into the details of Peter’s life when Abbu, Canopy Life Director, asked a friend at church if he knew someone interested in working hard, starting a garden that would help sustain the school, and who would add spiritual value to the Canopy community. That friend was Peter’s father-in-law!
Indeed Peter has become an invaluable member of the Canopy family; in fact, many meals feature the fruits of his labor! Peter says his favorite part of the job is the freedom to try new things. He is also enjoying the challenges of learning more about the proper tools and fertilizers to use for maximum harvest.
After his special appearance in the classroom, students gathered around some seedlings Peter is experimenting with to ask questions and investigate further. With this brief introduction, Peter is now a valued teacher on campus!
I personally loved walking through the garden and hearing him speak with such pride and confidence about the crops. Although this is his first independent farming project, it is one that reflects his hard work and constant attention. He continues to grow his knowledge by asking questions of friends who have more experience. When you come to Canopy Life Academy, be sure to stroll the gardens and sit with him to snap some beans for dinner and talk with this incredible man who has such a humble servant’s heart for the students at Canopy.
Oh, and when you come, bring recipes for preparation of corn and some cookies. He is fascinated with the many ways to prepare corn and he has never had a cookie!