Alabama Power volunteers revitalize Lee Elementary outdoor classroom for school year
Volunteers from the Alabama Power Service Organization rolled up their sleeves at Lee Elementary School in Satsuma to give its outdoor classroom a fresh start for the new school year, revitalizing a beloved space that nurtures curiosity and connection with nature.
The team tackled seven raised garden beds, pulling stubborn weeds and enriching the soil with nutrient-rich manure to promote healthy, vibrant growth. Their work didn’t stop there: They cleared weeds from multiple surrounding areas; trimmed overgrown plants; and refreshed the turtle habitat to provide a welcoming home for its resident. Volunteers emptied bird baths, then thoroughly cleaned and refilled them with fresh water.
“It’s important to us to volunteer at Lee Elementary in the outdoor classroom because we have seen how much the children love the gardens and all of the elements in the classroom,” said longtime Barry APSO member Sharon Meier, who is an IT specialist at Alabama Power’s Plant Barry. “From the garden beds, to the sensory garden, to the turtle and fish habitat, there is something suitable for every grade level.”
The impact of volunteers’ efforts resonates deeply with the school community. Following Alabama Power employees’ earlier restoration work this year, Lee Elementary teacher Samantha Tallent expressed heartfelt appreciation: “APSO has been our saving grace, swooping in to help maintain this well-loved area year after year.”
Together, these volunteers are cultivating not only the gardens but also a sense of wonder in the students who learn and grow within this outdoor setting.