What is the ultimate goal of education?  Hopefully, it is to help prepare students for life.  The more experiences we provide for our students that are authentic and meaningful, the better off they will be.  In New Jersey, the Princeton area schools are doing just that.  A NY Times article describes how students are learning about math, science, and language arts by growing their own vegetable garden.  In projects like these students are able to take ownership of their learning.  They are able to see that what they are learning makes a difference and can be useful.  Reportedly, the students work on the garden daily which provides another educational benefit of teaching responsibility.  Not only do students get the educational benefit of this experience, they also get the satisfaction of enjoying the fruits of their labor.  It is very rewarding to enjoy fresh food from a garden that you have tended. For the teacher, this endeavor allows for cross curriculum integration.  Students are able to see how different subjects work together in real life.  For the school, this type of project brings members of the community together, which gives them a stake in the activities and events of the school.  This kind of hands-on meaningful learning experience results in a positive outcome for all involved.