Wharton Elementary is proud to announce that it has received the highest level of certification as an Eco-School by the National Wildlife Federation. This honor recognizes the school’s exemplary efforts both in the classroom and across its campus to connect learning with the natural environment.
Wharton’s journey to certification began when the National Wildlife Federation learned about the school’s growing commitment to environmental education and outdoor engagement. Inspired by the work taking place on its grounds, NWF invited Wharton to pursue Eco-School status. Under the leadership of third-grade teacher Kelsey Pfaff, along with a dedicated team of Wonder Garden parent volunteers and the support of Principal Dr. Welters, the school completed an extensive, multi-year certification process.
This past summer, Wharton achieved the highest possible level of recognition, earning the distinction of a Green Flag Eco-School. The accomplishment makes Wharton the first school in the School District of Lancaster to receive this certification and one of only a few schools in Pennsylvania to reach this level.
Wharton’s environmental story began more than two decades ago when, in 2002, a teacher planted a small edible garden to help students connect with nature through hands-on learning. Over the years, that seed has grown into what is now known as the Wharton Wonder Garden, a thriving outdoor learning space that has become a source of pride for the school and its community.
The Wonder Garden includes native plant and pollinator gardens that teach students about biodiversity, an expanded edible garden where they learn to grow and harvest seasonal produce, and an outdoor classroom that supports lessons in science, art, and mindfulness. A mindfulness trail provides a space for reflection and connection, and newly planted canopy trees now offer beauty, shade, and sustainability across the school grounds.
Beyond serving as a classroom, the Wonder Garden has become a true gathering space. Each growing season, Wharton hosts a weekly after-school program open to students and caregivers. Together they plant, tend, and harvest the garden while learning about sustainability and nutrition. In just the past two years, more than 1,100 instances of participation have been recorded, showing how deeply the Wharton community has embraced the program.
The focus on environmental education extends indoors as well. Classrooms feature hydroponic growing systems that allow students to study plants year-round, and the Trout in the Classroom program gives them hands-on experience in conservation and environmental responsibility.
Wharton’s next project, the KinderGarden, will expand outdoor learning opportunities for its youngest students. Designed especially for early learners, the KinderGarden will give children a safe and engaging space to explore nature through discovery, curiosity, and play.
These milestones would not have been possible without the generosity of the many community sponsors and partners who have supported Wharton’s mission, including Waxwing EcoWorks Co., Penn Stone, Eshleman Mill Gardens and Landscapes, the Lancaster Sierra Club, Treemendus Jobs, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Frey’s Greenhouse, Landis Valley Farm and Museum, Whole Kids Foundation, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Mr. Bill’s Fresh Seafood, Ken’s Greenhouse, Lemon Street Market, and Lancaster Love Your Block.
Community members can continue to support Wharton’s outdoor learning and environmental initiatives by purchasing a Wharton Wonder Garden t-shirt, with proceeds directly benefiting garden programs and supplies.
Wharton’s recognition as an Eco-School is more than an achievement. It is a reflection of years of dedication, creativity, and collaboration. By bringing together students, educators, families, and community partners, Wharton has built a model for what environmental education can look like in Lancaster.
Through the Wharton Wonder Garden, students learn that growth takes patience, care, and teamwork. The lessons they plant today will continue to shape their understanding of the world tomorrow.
Wharton’s success embodies the spirit of the School District of Lancaster’s mission to ensure every student graduates ready to thrive in a diverse world. It is a reminder that when learning is rooted in curiosity and community, it has the power to grow far beyond the classroom.