The Rodartes - Garden Coordinators

Our expansive school gardens; which include 20 raised gardens, a desert habitat with native tortoises, a butterfly and hummingbird habitat, numerous hanging gardens, citrus and fruit trees, and potted flowers throughout the campus; would not be possible without the dedication of our Garden Coordinators Lou and Ann Rodarte (also known as Mr. & Mrs. Pickles to the kids).

Lou is a University of Arizona Master Gardener who guides ECS teachers in utilizing the gardens to enhance curriculum, filling the gap between teachers and garden science. A proponent of school gardens, Lou has worked to organize the Maricopa County Master Gardeners into a committee that supports this cause. In this group he has taught classes such as "Aligning School Garden Seasonality with the Academic Calendar" to teachers, wellness educators, and garden advocates.
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He is also a member of the Blue Watermelon Project, a group of chefs, farmers and food advocates focused on encouraging students to develop healthy eating habits. Lou serves on the Board of Directors for Slow Food Phoenix.

Contact: lou@swrci.com​