RESEARCH

Cultivating Job Skills Through a School Gardening Enterprise: Special Educators Work with Students with Disabilities from Elementary Through High School to Launch and Run a Business while Teaching Vocational Skills

The Succulent Enterprises program successfully teaches vocational skills to students with developmental disabilities through gardening and entrepreneurship, fostering confidence and independence while preparing them for employment. Over three years, the program has helped students secure jobs, build friendships, and launch their own businesses while strengthening community connections.

Program Types: Social, Vocational

Population Groups: Children/Youth, Neurodevelopmental Differences

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Greater Sense of Purpose, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Greater Job Readiness & Vocational Skills, Increased Self-Efficacy

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Plant Propagation, Vocational Skill Development, Greenhouse/Nursery Production

Evidence Type: Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This paper describes “Succulent Enterprises,” a school-based gardening program designed to teach vocational skills to students with developmental and communication disabilities while fostering independence and confidence. The program, created by educators in Springfield, Missouri, combines gardening with business practices, allowing students to grow, care for, and sell plants. Participants learn practical skills such as customer service, organization, math (e.g., calculating sales), and teamwork. Activities are tailored to different age groups and abilities, ensuring inclusivity. For example, younger students focus on tasks like watering and pruning plants, while older students handle larger responsibilities like preparing garden beds and fulfilling orders. The program also overlaps with Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals, addressing areas like communication, problem-solving, and executive functioning.

Over its three years of operation, Succulent Enterprises has achieved significant milestones. Students have gained confidence, developed friendships with peers, and even secured jobs after graduation. The program has expanded its impact through community partnerships, such as providing floral arrangements for events and donating gifts to local businesses. One former student even launched their own online business selling pet products. The paper highlights the program’s success in promoting vocational skills while empowering students with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Future plans include building an outdoor classroom to further enhance learning opportunities.

Link

Leo, E., Patterson, K., & Reese, A. (2020). Cultivating job skills through a school gardening enterprise: Special educators work with students with disabilities from elementary through high school to launch and run a business while teaching vocational skills. ASHA Wire.

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