Tiny Hands, Big Harvest: Young Gardeners at McRae Learning Center

George Tarver was doing some outside maintenance work this past spring at McRae Learning Center and spotted some land around the back of the school that would serve well to introduce a passion of his – planting fruits and vegetables to beautify grounds and produce food for others.  

At McRae, his creation also turned into a learning opportunity for the school’s students, amongst the youngest in the community.

Tarver, a Dallas County residence and retired maintenance employee in Selma city schools for over 30 years, gave four-year-old students at the school a tour of the garden in July 2025, and invited them to search for various plants and vegetables that were growing.  

Students were amazed to find fresh tomatoes, huge watermelons, brilliant green jalapeno peppers, and beautiful collard greens and turnips. Tarver also taught the students the whole process of growing food and of its importance.

Peas and okra will be planted this coming September.  In 2026, plans are to triple the size of the current garden with designed boxed structures.  Implementation will take place in January and February. The garden is meant to beautify the grounds around McRae Learning Center, teach children the importance of agriculture, and provide food for the school and local community.