Another Successful Puffin Project: Teaneck Celebrates Opening of the Michelle Obama Interdisciplinary Outdoor Garden at Thomas Jefferson Middle School

April 22, 2014

First Lady Mrs. Michelle Obama has challenged our nation’s youth, parents, educators, and community leaders to make strives to reduce childhood obesity through her “Let’s Move!” campaign. Mrs. Obama’s efforts have contributed to the decline in obesity rates among preschoolers in many states. Inspired by the First Lady, in 2013 the Thomas Jefferson Middle School Environmental/ Pet Club launched “Let’s Move Together” anti-obesity human to pet initiative. According to the National Pet Obesity Survey of 2012, fifty-five percent of dogs and cars are overweight. As a result, we want to challenge young people to become “life-long embracers” of good nutritional habits.

The creation of “The Michelle Obama Interdisciplinary Outdoor Garden” connects science, art, math, social science, technology, language arts, and World language (e.g. Spanish, French). This Interdisciplinary Outdoor Garden will provide opportunities for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)related projects that fosters environmental and public interest.

Dedication Plaque

Gladys, Perry and Neal Rosenstein in front of the new interdisciplinary garden at Thomas Jefferson Middle School

Dr. Antoinette Bush and students of Thomas Jefferson at dedication ceremony

Puffin Foundation Executive Director Gladys Rosenstein addresses attendees

Dr. Bush, project leader Frank Ottochian and Thomas Jefferson students in front of the new garden

Thomas Jefferson Principal Angela Davis and 8th grader Kristen Valentine cut the ribbon to open the new garden.