Following in the footsteps of the 10th and 11th grades, the Class of 2029 demonstrated strong organization, teamwork, and a commitment to service through their participation in the GHCDS Community Enrichment Program, a student-led initiative centered on fostering community engagement and building meaningful partnerships across St. Croix.
As part of their work, the 7th grade partnered with St. George Village Botanical Garden, a historic 16-acre site dedicated to preserving the island’s natural environment and cultural heritage. The Garden features over 1,000 native and tropical plant species, a museum documenting more than 2,000 years of history, and a herbarium focused on island ecology. In alignment with the class’s focus on cultural heritage and preservation, students organized a visit to the Botanical Gardens, where they engaged in hands-on work such as gardening, assisting with the nursery, and supporting outdoor conservation efforts.
Through this experience, students gained a deeper understanding of the Garden’s impact and the important role it plays in preserving both the natural and cultural landscapes of St. Croix, while also gaining valuable exposure to the island’s diverse botanical ecosystem, including efforts to protect endangered native species such as the Vahl's boxwood.
The 9th grade looks forward to continuing to build on this partnership while developing their role as responsible stewards of St. Croix’s environment and cultural heritage.
We extend our sincere thanks to the St. George Village Botanical Garden for their time and partnership, as well as to our generous donors whose support makes student transportation and these experiences possible.
