From Schoolyard to Sanctuary
A turnkey program to transform your campus into a living classroom, growing pollinators, hands-on learning, and a stronger community.
More Than a Garden: An Investment in Student Success
15%
Higher scores on standardized science tests for students in garden programs.
80%
Increase in learning retention from hands-on, experiential activities.
56.9%
Of principals report improved student environmental attitudes.
25%
Reduction in student stress levels from time spent gardening.
Benefits For All Students
Instead of just reading from a textbook, students gain a stronger grasp of complex science concepts by applying them outdoors. They will observe pollinators, track plant growth, and conduct soil tests right on their own campus. This hands-on practice—journaling, measuring, and presenting findings—cements learning in a way that lasts far beyond the classroom.
Support for Neurodivergent Students
Green outdoor activities are proven to reduce ADHD symptoms by 7-10%. For autistic students, garden programs lead to improved engagement for 90% of participants, while sensory gardens can reduce anxiety by 30-35%. The garden becomes a sensory-safe space where students can reset, focus, and practice social interaction at their own pace.
Support Us
The Bayou City Bee is a completely sponsored initiative made possible by the generosity of our community. Fundraising allows us to provide this program at no cost to schools, covering everything from teaching hours and lesson plans to installation and maintenance. Your support helps us plant seeds of learning and grow the next generation of environmental stewards.
Donation Options
Tax-Deductible Donations
Donate via our 501(c)(3) Partner
For a tax-deductible receipt, please donate through our nonprofit partner, The One Step Closer Foundation.
When donating, please include ‘Sunshine’, ‘Bayou City Bee’, or ‘school gardens’ in the notes.
For a receipt, please email us at Ctibbals@rootedinsunshine.net and Jdiaz@1scf.org.
ACH and Zelle donations to the foundation can be arranged upon request.
Learn more about The One Step Closer Foundation.
Direct Donations
Donate Directly to Bayou City Bee
These methods are for individuals or those who do not require a tax-deductible receipt. Donations go directly to Rooted in Sunshine, LLC to support the program.
Donate to Rooted In Sunshine via Zelle:
Donate directly to One Step Closer Foundation via ACH - account and routing number can be provided upon request.
Choose your Garden Path
Every school has a unique space, capacity, and vision. We offer three turnkey models to fit your needs, each providing the same core ecological and educational benefits at a different scale.
The American Bumblebee
Perfect for smaller campuses or as a pilot project.
- 1 raised bed + signage
- Creates a compact, visible habitat
- Ideal for focused class projects
Volunteer: ~180-200 hours over 2 years
The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
Ideal for grade-level rotations and expanded lessons.
- 2 raised beds with pathways & signage
- Deeper student engagement
- Larger space for biodiversity
Volunteer: ~220-250 hours over 2 years
The Red-Tailed Hawk
Engages the entire campus with ecology, art, and mindfulness.
- 3 raised beds + sensory garden feature
- Fully immersive outdoor classroom
- Creates a lasting community landmark
Volunteer: ~280-320 hours over 2 years
What Every Path Includes
100% Texas-native plant palette, interpretive signage, a two-year Garden Day plan guided by our staff, and lessons that complement TEKS standards across all subjects.
Project Timeline: Year-Round Learning
Fall 2025 – Installation & Early Growth
Students prepare soil, plant native species, and design the garden layout.
Spring 2026 – Peak Bloom & Activity
Students track bloom cycles, count pollinators, and install interpretive signage.
Summer 2026 – Sustained Habitat
Volunteers water, weed, and observe pollinators while reinforcing care routines.
Fall 2026 – Renewal & Learning
Students lead reflection, document growth, and share findings with the school.
Fall 2025 – Installation & Early Growth
Students prepare soil, plant native species, and design the garden layout.
Spring 2026 – Peak Bloom & Activity
Students track bloom cycles, count pollinators, and install interpretive signage.
Summer 2026 – Sustained Habitat
Volunteers water, weed, and observe pollinators while reinforcing care routines.
Fall 2026 – Renewal & Learning
Students lead reflection, document growth, and share findings with the school.
Cross-Curricular Connections
The garden isn't just for science class. It's a living laboratory that provides rich learning opportunities across the entire curriculum.
- Science: Ecology, biology, chemistry, environmental science.
- Math & Data: Statistical analysis, data visualization, GIS mapping.
- Language Arts: Research reports, environmental journalism, grant writing.
- Social Studies: Environmental policy, sustainability debates, civic engagement.
- Fine Arts & Media: Photography, digital storytelling, environmental design.
A Message From Our Sponsor - The One Step Closer Foundation
To our Community,
The One Step Closer Foundation (1SCF) is dedicated to improving the lives of those with cerebral palsy and other disabilities through education, support, and opportunities for growth. In alignment with our mission, we are proud to announce our partnership with Rooted In Sunshine (www.rootedinsunshine.net)—an organization committed to cultivating learning opportunities for children of all ages and abilities, including those with special needs.
As part of this collaboration, 1SCF will act as the fiscal sponsor to accept donations on behalf of Rooted In Sunshine. Contributions may be made in the following ways:

- PayPal at link on www.1scf.org: Donate
- ACH Payment
- Account #: [Insert Account Number]
- Routing #: [Insert Routing Number]
- Electronic Check
When submitting, please include “Rooted In Sunshine” in the Pay To or Details section. 100% of your contribution will be available to Rooted In Sunshine within one to three business days.
Together, our shared commitment to education, inclusivity, and opportunity will help build a brighter future for children across the Greater Houston Area. We look forward to the impact this partnership will create for our communities.
Powered by Community Partnerships
Rooted in Sunshine leads the Bayou City Bee in partnership with organizations dedicated to ecological education and community access.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We are incredibly grateful for our keystone partners who have provided generous sponsorships for goods like soil and mulch, making this program possible.
Schools: Ready to Grow With Us?
Join a growing network of schools across Greater Houston that are reimagining learning through nature. Let's build a lasting legacy of stewardship at your campus. Contact us today to learn how your school can become part of The Bayou City Bee.
