FARMER KIM
Ray Brantley
FARMER KIM
Kim Aman would love to see a school garden in every schoolyard in NTx. She helps connect students with the soil, their food, and their community. Her farming roots run deep from her Grandfather who grew crops in the rich country soil of central Ohio. He taught her about the earth, soil, plants, animals, and the beauty of a bite from a vi
Kim Aman would love to see a school garden in every schoolyard in NTx. She helps connect students with the soil, their food, and their community. Her farming roots run deep from her Grandfather who grew crops in the rich country soil of central Ohio. He taught her about the earth, soil, plants, animals, and the beauty of a bite from a vine-ripe tomato. She knows that she is fortunate to be doing what she loves and looks forward to every day that she can spend digging in the soil.
Ms. Mew
Ray Brantley
FARMER KIM
Leigh Ann Mewhirter has always loved the great outdoors. She spent summers in Iowa learning to check the crops with her grandpa and pulling weeds in the garden with her grandma. Teaching is her passion and becoming a garden educator has brought the joy of working with kids to the outside classroom. She appreciates the smiles and excitemen
Leigh Ann Mewhirter has always loved the great outdoors. She spent summers in Iowa learning to check the crops with her grandpa and pulling weeds in the garden with her grandma. Teaching is her passion and becoming a garden educator has brought the joy of working with kids to the outside classroom. She appreciates the smiles and excitement that show up when the kids walk into the garden, eager to learn and have fun.
Ray Brantley
Ray Brantley
Ray Brantley
Ray Brantley, our newest member at Grow Garden Grow, discovered his passion for gardening later in life, igniting a deep interest in horticulture. He began by volunteering as a raised bed gardener in his former Dallas elementary school. Ray's dedication expanded as he helped establish outdoor gardens for various schools across Ft. Worth,
Ray Brantley, our newest member at Grow Garden Grow, discovered his passion for gardening later in life, igniting a deep interest in horticulture. He began by volunteering as a raised bed gardener in his former Dallas elementary school. Ray's dedication expanded as he helped establish outdoor gardens for various schools across Ft. Worth, Mansfield, Haltom City, and Castleberry ISD. He recently accomplished the 2022 Tarrant County Master Gardener and Master Wellness programs from Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, adding to his expertise. Ray further enriches his knowledge at the Ft. Worth Botanic Garden, focusing on Backyard Vegetable Gardens and Composting. He's pursuing the 2023 Cross Timbers Master Wellness program, starting in Fall. Outside of mentoring, Ray tends to his own vegetable gardens at TCMGA Demonstration Garden, UT-Arlington Community Garden, and his backyard's three raised beds. Ray holds a B.A. in Biblical Studies and dual Masters Degrees in Pastoral Care from The Criswell College, along with extensive PhD studies in Preaching at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Ms. Lauren
Brandon Iker, PHD
Ray Brantley
Lauren Budenski has always loved being outside. Growing up on acres of land, she spent her free time exploring and helping in the family garden. These experiences have carried over to her adult life as an educator and farmer. She is excited to share the joy of farming with the students this year!
Brandon Iker, PHD
Brandon Iker, PHD
Brandon Iker, PHD
Brandon is an experienced research scientist and farmer, passionate about addressing climate related issues with his work. He has deep roots within school gardens and is working to grow the movement in Texas. He loves building communities that support healthy living and a healthier environment.
Mrs. Kenley
Brandon Iker, PHD
Brandon Iker, PHD
Kenley Larkin is a mom of three young kids, a former elementary educator, and an urban homesteader. Her love of gardening began shortly after her first child was born and has continued to blossom ever since. She finds true joy in watching students come alive in the garden through authentic and hands-on learning that can only be experienced outside.
Mr. A
Tyler Hollandsworth
Renee Porter
Hugh aka Mr. A is a lifelong educator who is deeply passionate about science and the environment. With his wit and humor, he teaches kids about their world and how they can make a positive impact on the planet. He's excited about growing the school garden movement in North Texas.
Renee Porter
Tyler Hollandsworth
Renee Porter
Renee Porter is thrilled to be part of the school garden team this year. With her background in teaching science and a strong passion for outdoor learning, she is eagerly looking forward to engaging with students and sharing her knowledge about the garden. Her enthusiasm for educaiton and her desire to collaborate with young minds make he
Renee Porter is thrilled to be part of the school garden team this year. With her background in teaching science and a strong passion for outdoor learning, she is eagerly looking forward to engaging with students and sharing her knowledge about the garden. Her enthusiasm for educaiton and her desire to collaborate with young minds make her an excellent fit for guiding students in both discovering and contributing to the garden's wonders.
Tyler Hollandsworth
Tyler Hollandsworth
Tyler Hollandsworth
Tyler Hollandsworth has always had an affinity for plants and children. At Grow Garden Grow, she has been able to combine the great passions of her life! Growing up in Dallas, she always desired a greater connection to the land. She feels so lucky to have the opportunity to bring gardens into urban schools. She can't wait for a year of growing with students!