Culinary teacher Ms. Julianne Downes was in the PV courtyard last May planting organic produce with her classes. Four months later, she enjoys eggplant meatballs for lunch.

Throughout the summer, Downes, along with Mrs. Kristen Lindstrom and Mrs. Michela Piccolini, helped maintain the garden, picked the herbs and vegetables, and donated a portion of the produce to the staff in the front office.

The garden is not only for the use of Culinary students, but also in science classes.

During the first few weeks of school, Downes presented a demonstration in Lindstrom’s science class for making pesto to show them the effusion of the oil, basil, and garlic. She also plans on teaching the students in Piccolini’s class in an upcoming week. Students in these classes will then take part in a pesto pasta party.

As the cold weather approaches, Downes plans for the spring mentioning how the PFO has arranged to help buy vegetables for next year. Along with new vegetables, a conversation about getting bees is in the works.

“I usually leave a little container [of vegetables] and I encourage the kids to come and enjoy some of nature’s candy,” Downes said.