The doors of Woodside Elementary School will open to plant lovers on Thursday, May 15, for the annual Woodside Garden Open House, an event that invites the public to explore the school’s greenhouse and walk through the garden, guided by the students themselves.

The activity was originally scheduled for last Friday but was canceled due to rain. It will now take place at the same time: from 4:30 to 6 p.m. During the visit, guests will learn about everything the students have explored and discovered throughout the school year.

Attendees will also have the chance to meet the volunteers who help maintain the garden, enjoy student-created artwork, and follow colorful chalk flower drawings that lead the way to the Woodside Magic Garden.

The current greenhouse was reopened in 2019 thanks to a collaborative effort involving district staff, the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), and the Rotary Club of Peekskill. The previous structure had to be demolished for safety reasons.

The greenhouse is used regularly for science, environmental, and hands-on learning activities. Students plant seeds, care for them, and eventually transplant them into the outdoor garden, where they observe their growth across the seasons. They also take part in community events such as school fairs and plant sales.

Key contributors to the project include Laura Perkins, a volunteer horticulturist and Peekskill resident, and Melina Cronin, a kindergarten teacher and garden program advisor. Both have worked closely with students to develop the gardening curriculum, integrating environmental learning into daily classroom routines.

The event will be held behind the school building, with access via Union Avenue. Organizers recommend arriving early to secure parking. For more information, visit the school’s website.