Montezuma School to Farm Project

Every seed we plant helps a child grow.

Your gift supports hands-on garden education for over 1,500 students each month across Montezuma County — teaching kids to nurture the soil, their food, and their community.

Our approach to garden education helps students learn the importance of food systems, resource conservation and connects their knowledge through hands-on experiences.

Why It Matters

Our school gardens are living classrooms where learning comes to life. Students explore how food grows, how ecosystems thrive, and how caring for the earth connects to caring for themselves. Our lessons blend science, nutrition, and conservation — planting seeds for lifelong curiosity and healthy habits.

What Students Say About Garden Class

“This is more fun than recess!” – 3rd grader, Cortez

“I want to bring food home to my family so we eat fruits instead of candy.” – 2nd grader, Cortez

“I’ve always wanted a garden at home. I’m so glad I get to come work in this one.” – 2nd grader, Mancos

“I’m usually a really picky eater, but I’ll eat anything from the garden.” – 5th grader, Dolores

Your support helps keep this joy growing all year long.

What Teachers See in the Garden

“Garden class is the easiest class to get all kids engaged. Even students who struggle in other settings thrive here.” – 3rd grade teacher, Cortez

“The school garden provides a wonderful outdoor classroom that engages students who don’t always connect indoors.” – Middle School teacher, Montezuma County

“The benefits include better cross-curricular connections, more excitement for being healthy, and a stronger connection to nature.” – 4th grade teacher, Cortez

Your Impact

Your gift keeps our gardens — and our students — growing. Every dollar sows the seeds for a healthier, more connected future in Montezuma County.

• 🌱 $25 — Provide seeds, soil, and tools for classroom gardens.

• 🥕 $75 — Connect kids to where their food comes from.

• 🌻 $150 — Construct and maintain raised garden beds for students.

• 🐝 $500 — Fund an educator to lead lessons across schools.

Monthly gifts ensure our gardens — and our students — flourish all year long! Choose monthly donations at checkout. 

Our Roots

Founded in 2009 as a project of the Mancos Conservation District, MSTFP began with one farm field trip for 40 students. Today, we reach more than 1,500 students every month, maintain school gardens across Montezuma County, and grow over 5,000 pounds of produce annually for students and the community.

Join Us

Every child deserves the chance to discover where food comes from — and how much joy can grow from a handful of soil.

Help us keep Montezuma’s gardens growing — one lesson, one student, one seed at a time.