What was once an overgrown patch of land near the entrance of Berlin Community School (BCS) has now blossomed into a vibrant and symbolic garden, thanks to the dedication of students, staff and community supporters.
The newly refreshed Autism Acceptance Garden was unveiled the week of April 14 as part of a dual celebration of Autism Acceptance Month and Earth Day on April 22. A collaboration between the school’s special education department and its administration, the garden renewal project was both a hands-on learning experience and a powerful symbol of inclusion.
“The idea to renew the Autism Acceptance Garden came from a desire to both celebrate Autism Acceptance Month and create a meaningful, hands-on project that brought our special education classes together,” said Kevin O’Donnell, special-ed teacher at BCS.
“We saw an opportunity to not only beautify the area, but also to create a symbol of growth, inclusion and community pride.”
The garden was created several years ago but had fallen into disrepair during recent construction updates to the school campus. With support from staff donations and community contributions, the renewal project was revived with energy and purpose.
Dr. Shaitra Flores, director of curriculum and instruction for Berlin Borough schools, noted the timing of the garden renewal was ideal.
“We love the beautiful message this garden shares, which is that we want everyone to feel welcome, appreciated and accepted at Berlin Community School,” Flores explained. “Refreshing the garden was the perfect project during Autism Acceptance Month and as an Earth Day activity.”
The revitalization effort was also a school-wide collaboration. Students from preschool through middle school rolled up their sleeves to help clear out debris, rake soil, spread mulch, dig holes, plant flowers and assemble decorative features like a bird bath and mini fence. Art students painted colorful rocks with messages to decorate the garden’s borders.
“Our students are very excited,” Flores noted. “They helped prepare new additions and freshened up parts that could still be reused. The garden now represents the beauty and diversity in our school community.”
According to O’Donnell, the project was a valuable teaching moment that extended beyond the classroom.
“Students learned about teamwork, responsibility and the importance of advocacy,” he said. “They took ownership of a shared goal, and it’s clear they’re proud of what they accomplished.”
Challenges such as coordinating schedules and securing materials were met with creativity and resilience. Small fundraisers organized by students, along with generous donations from staff and families, helped the project stay on track.
“Perhaps the most inspiring part of the process,” O’Donnell observed, “was watching how everyone adapted, supported one another and stayed focused on our shared goal.”
The renewed garden now stands as a living, growing reminder of what a unified community can accomplish, one that welcomes every student and celebrates every story.
