Fremont Elementary School grows vegetables in its own garden

As the healthy minds teacher at Fremont Elementary School in Mundelein, Lori Northup spent a good portion of her summer in the school's garden preparing the ground for vegetables and taking care of those seedlings.

She developed garden beds three years ago and then engaged her students in planting seeds like kale, cucumbers, squash and eggplant.

"Growing up, my exposure to fresh produce was minimal. We mostly ate vegetables from cans. Having a garden seems like a perfect way to introduce students to healthy alternatives. Being active participants in the gardening process is even better.

"When students plant and then harvest the food they eat, everything comes together. The excitement on their faces when they see how the fruits and vegetables grow is priceless," Northup said.

Over the summer, a group of garden enthusiasts helped her maintain the garden. It isn't any easy project, admits Northup, a novice when it comes to gardening.

In an enclosed courtyard, the temperature easily climbs to 90 degrees and bugs abound. She stops by several times a week on her own time to ensure the plants are well watered and the beds are not taken over by weeds.

Most vegetables harvested are given to the Fremont Township Food Pantry.

"The many seniors and low income residents appreciate the support from the Fremont garden," Fremont Township Supervisor Diana O'Kelly said. "We're excited to offer fresh vegetables to our residents."