Rothenberg Preparatory Academy will see the completion of its 8,500-square-foot rooftop teaching garden this year, thanks to many donations and supporters in the local community.
Edwin “Pope” Coleman, rooftop project manager, has worked with the
Over-The-Rhine Foundation for the past eight years to
bring the rooftop garden to life.
When Rothenberg was vacant and facing demolition, Coleman, as well as many residents of the community, approached
Cincinnati Public Schools and asked for a renovation instead of a replacement.
“[Rothenberg] was a flagship and point of pride for the neighborhood,” says Bryna Bass, full-time teacher and garden manager. “The community fought hard to prevent it from being torn down.”
With the understanding that CPS wouldn’t be responsible for providing anything more than the space, the OTR Foundation took on fiscal responsibility and began restoring Rothenberg through Coleman’s vision.
Fundraising for the rooftop garden began in late 2008, and more than $300,000 has been raised since then. The recent Midsummer Night’s Gala raised additional funding also need for construction and operation.
The teaching garden, which was once a playground, will allow students to explore science and nature. The developed curriculum uses garden-based lessons to deepen students' educational experience through hands-on problem-solving activities, Bass says.
The rooftop teaching garden educational program will launch at the beginning of the 2014-15 academic year.
Do Good:- Visit Rothenberg and go on a tour of the garden.
- “Like” the rooftop garden progress on Facebook.
- Make a donation to the OTR Foundation.
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