Memorial garden earns award

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A memorial garden at Red Pine Elementary School has earned recognition from the Minnesota State Horticultural Society.

The school’s garden received the Joseph Priley Award, given to an individual, group or organization that has developed and started to implement a vision for community beautification. The award was presented March 24.

The Red Pine garden began as a tribute to Kathleen Corrigan, a longtime teacher who loved both teaching and gardening. When she died following a long battle with cancer, the school community looked for ways to deal with their grief and to pay tribute to Corrigan. The idea of a garden seemed like a natural fit.

Philippe Gallandat led a team of parents, children and staff in planning and executing the project. Teams of volunteers spent hours preparing the area, collecting plants and finally planting and creating. The result is an area that is now used for reflection and instruction.

Each year the Minnesota State Horticultural Society recognizes individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to horticulture and greening efforts in public gardens, community projects and through exemplary community achievements. Individuals, projects and activities of neighborhood groups, governmental organizations, garden clubs and communities that have meritoriously contributed to gardening and rejuvenating communities through plants are honored each year.

Tags: elementary school, education, rosemount