Greening Dovercourt: A year in review

Have you noticed all the beautiful plants and flowers surrounding our school?

None of that appears by accident! It's the hard work of the Dovercourt students, staff and volunteers, led by the amazing Deborah Walsh (who would never ask for credit but who deserves all of it).

Here's a sample of what the Deborah and her team have done this year.

Bulb planting

In October and November of 2024, five classes had the opportunity to plant 400 bulbs supplied by Bulbs for Kids. Ms. Tsilka connected us with this opportunity and generously helped us out. Mr. Deottos’ class did the heavy lifting, by moving paving stones from the front of the school to Hallam Street, creating a walkway for the children who enjoy exploring this garden area. (Shout-out to Dovercourt parent Paul Tichonczuk for helping move these stones!)

Months later, in April and May, the bulbs popped out! They were beautiful and made a big impact within the community​.

Hallowe'en garlic planting

We planted garlic bulbs in planters on the school grounds on the eeriest day of the year!
​Thank you to Ms. Volpe's class for making this a super-spooky success!

Native plant transfer

Two classes participated in the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)'s Native Plants transfer program in June.  Mr. Deotto’s class (led by Ms. Volpe on this day)  had had been caring for native plants plants since March.  The TRCA instructors led exercises and games around invasive plants, native plants, and the important role of pollination. Students than planted their plants in the school's West yard. 
The TRCA instructors also led a few games to offer students context for the stewardship they have done in growing the plants.
Ms. Whistler’s class also learned about pollinators and the role plant choices can make in your garden.  They planted in the West and South yard containers after an in class session.

Volunteers needed: Summer weeders

We're looking to organize a few dates in the summer to weed the planters and gardens around Dovercourt. would like to help, please email us at [email protected]. (High school students looking for volunteer hours are welcome!)

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