Saxons gathered in circles, both inside the classroom and outside room 405. Their hands gripped shovels, their clothes dusted with dirt. Their palms held the jingling weight of wingnuts, washers, and screws. Twist them tight, pass the screwdriver, drill them in—this is the foundation of our school’s Zen Garden.
Wait. We’re building a garden?
The Purpose of the Zen Garden
The NHS Zen Garden service project is an initiative bringing Loara students together to create a space dedicated to mental health and relaxation. Through teamwork, students are building garden beds and installing flowers, tools, and features that will be sustained throughout the year. This project fosters creativity and enhances our campus environment.
Loara’s NHS is partnering with CSF and the AVID program to bring this initiative to life. We also hope to collaborate with LUNA leaders in the near future to strengthen our sense of community and continue our mission of promoting mental well-being on campus.
Laying the Foundation
At the start of this project, progress was slow as we worked to secure funding and receive soil. In November, we were awarded a $10,000 grant, allowing us to purchase essential supplies, including garden beds, fountains, and benches. Since then, we have begun assembling the garden beds and preparing the designated space. As students contribute their efforts, the vision of our Zen Garden is becoming a reality. By the end of this academic year, we aim to introduce plants and finalize the area to provide a tranquil environment for all students. The garden will be open in the mornings, during lunch, and after school.
What is the National Honor Society?
The National Honor Society (NHS) is an academic and service-based club that recognizes high-achieving high school students who are dedicated to community building,
leadership, and character development. By participating in service projects like the Zen Garden, students gain valuable experiences that highlight the importance of education and networking within the school community.
For updates on the NHS and the Zen Garden project, follow us on Instagram: @loaranhs.
Any student is welcome to participate in our community service events! If you’re interested in applying to become an NHS member, join our club meetings on Thursdays during lunch in room 405 and look out for applications in the spring semester.
Join the Initiative: Zen Garden
Students who help build the garden can earn up to four hours of community service per service day. While NHS graduation pins are reserved for active NHS seniors, students who meet the following service hour milestones may receive special recognition:
- Silver Medallion: 30-99 hours of community service
- Gold Medallion: 100+ hours of community service
For details on submitting community service hours through Thrively, contact your counselor.
After daylight savings, NHS will continue working on the garden weekly or twice a month until May 3rd, when the Zen Garden is expected to be completed.
The Work Experience
On scheduled workdays, students meet with Mr. Sean Phi, our chemistry teacher and NHS advisor, in room 405. Ms. Valencia Davis, the AVID teacher and advisor for AVID & Friends, also lends her support to the project.
Saturday Academy Work Days
During Saturday Academies, students can receive free breakfast and lunch while working on the garden. Join us on the following dates from 8 AM – 12 PM:
- Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Saturday, March 15, 2025
- Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Saturday, May 3, 2025
We look forward to seeing you all in the garden soon!
