Justin Hayes

“Building on concepts of food sovereignty, restorative practices and the Santee Sioux Nation’s inherent connection to nature and outdoor-based traditions, Santee Community Schools received SEL in Action support for our Grow Santee project, an integrated school-community youth gardening and entrepreneurship initiative designed to engage students in hands-on learning experiences connecting them to school and community supportive relationships. Desired student outcomes include improving daily school attendance, graduation rates, social and emotional wellbeing, and ultimately, career and economic success as adults.”