Strengthening School-Based Garden Program: Opportunities and Challenges of Coordinators

This study explored the opportunities and challenges of school coordinators in strengthening the School-Based Garden Program. There were ten (10) teachers of Sta. Cruz North District, Division of Davao Del Sur, who participated in the study. This study used a phenomenological approach to extract the participants' ideas. An in-depth interview was conducted to gather information about their experiences and coping mechanisms. Using the thematic analysis, the following themes emerged: the opportunities and challenges of school coordinators focused on environmental education, life skills development, and community partnership. The identified coping mechanisms with the challenges delved into positive responses, professional development, and innovative concepts. The insights drawn from the study's findings were challenges in sustainability, opportunities for experiential learning, and curriculum integration. Results revealed that school-based garden programs should be strengthened to enhance their impact on student learning and the community. Moreover, stakeholders shall collaborate to promote success and sustainability.