Chute Middle School's Green STEAM Club has been a beacon of sustainability and creativity for over two decades, nurturing both young minds and a thriving garden. This club, under the guidance of dedicated faculty adviser Wendy Mohrenweiser, has evolved from a simple vegetable garden to a hub of environmental education and artistic expression. What makes this story truly captivating is the seamless blend of nature, art, and community engagement, all centered around the humble butterfly and the majestic monarch.
The journey began with Kitty Okano, an ESL teacher who planted the seeds of this initiative. Her vision was to create a space where students could connect with nature and learn about the importance of sustainability. With the help of Felicia Przekota, a fellow educator, they established a vegetable garden, teaching students the art of planting and harvesting. This garden not only provided fresh produce but also became a living classroom, fostering a sense of responsibility and environmental awareness.
As the club grew, so did its impact. When Okano retired, the students decided to honor her legacy by creating the Okano Butterfly Garden. This new garden became a haven for butterflies, attracting their graceful presence. But the real magic happened when Sherri Kushner's media arts class joined forces with the Green STEAM Club. Together, they envisioned a mural that would not only celebrate the beauty of butterflies but also educate the community about monarch migration.
The mural, a stunning piece by Chicago artist Mario Mena, was funded by the Evanston Mural Arts Program. It depicts the journey of monarch butterflies, blending art and science to create a powerful visual narrative. The mural's debut in June 2025 was a moment of pride for the school, and its dedication in September further emphasized the club's impact. The use of polytab for the mural ensures its longevity, a fitting tribute to the club's enduring legacy.
This year, the Green STEAM Club is expanding its horizons. They plan to print the monarch mural on canvas bags, promoting Evanston's shopping policy against single-use plastic bags. This project not only supports the environment but also empowers students to take an active role in their community. The club's culinary adventures, like making kale chips and cucumber-yogurt snacks, showcase the practical applications of their garden's bounty.
The garden itself is a testament to the club's dedication. With the help of woodchips donated by District 65, the students have created raised garden beds, fostering a sense of ownership and pride. The harvest is donated to local food pantries, providing fresh produce to those in need. This summer, the garden boasts an abundance of yellow squash, cucumbers, kale, chard, and carrots, a true labor of love.
In the winter, the club embraces the season's challenges, growing mushrooms and exploring winter themes. Last year, they used this time to research and plan the mural, demonstrating the club's commitment to continuous learning and creativity. This coming school year, they will plant three new apple trees, a project that will not only provide fresh fruit but also teach students about the importance of pollination and sustainable agriculture.
The Green STEAM Club is more than just a gardening club; it's a community of learners and creators. It empowers students to take an active role in their environment, fostering a sense of responsibility and curiosity. The club's impact extends beyond the garden, influencing students' perspectives on sustainability and the interconnectedness of all life. As the club continues to evolve, it serves as a shining example of how education and art can come together to create a brighter, more sustainable future.
In my opinion, the Green STEAM Club is a testament to the power of community engagement and environmental education. It shows how a simple garden can become a catalyst for change, inspiring students to think critically, creatively, and sustainably. As we look to the future, I can't help but wonder what new projects and discoveries await this remarkable club. Perhaps they will explore the science of composting, delve into the world of beekeeping, or even create their own sustainable art installations. One thing is certain: the Green STEAM Club will continue to flourish, nurturing both the garden and the minds of its students, and leaving a lasting impact on the community it serves.
