Students explore their new Healing Garden after the grand opening and ribbon cutting, Oct 24, 2024

On October 24, 2024, the Chimacum schools celebrated the dedication of the Healing Garden at Chimacum Elementary School, a vibrant space born from the ambitious vision of last year’s fourth graders. The event opened with a beautiful rendition of “A Beautiful Day” by Maverick Forsberg, and Garden Educator Valerie Randall expressed gratitude to the many contributors, including students, teachers, and local organizations. Superintendent Dr. Scott Mauk highlighted the significance of the Chemakum Tribe's story, further enriching the occasion.

Support from local organizations such as the Rotary of East Jefferson County, the Port Townsend Food Co-op, the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation’s Ocean Guardians, Community Wellness Project, and NOSC has been vital to the garden’s success. Rosalee Walz, Chair of the Chemakum Tribal Council graciously assisted with the project’s visioning and Chemakum language; teacher and biologist Kit Pennell, master herbalists Shatoiya DeLaTour and Nicole Larson, and landscape design coach Candice Cosler each contributed to this rich educational project. The dedication also highlighted the leadership and coordination of the district's staff and parents like Tony Dumford and Sam Davidson, who helped shape the physical space.