Apollo Early Childhood Center is preparing to transform an outdoor space into a vibrant, student-centered oasis thanks to a new partnership with the Milford Garden Club.
Nancy Biernacki, Early Intervention specialist, and Michelle Baker, Speech-Language Pathologist, submitted a joint proposal to create a Butterfly and Sensory Garden just outside Apollo’s indoor gross motor area. Their vision focuses on enhancing students’ connection with nature while supporting sensory exploration, communication, and hands-on learning.
After reviewing the proposal, Milford Garden Club members visited the site, offering their professional expertise and ideas for shaping the space. Impressed by the project’s purpose and potential impact, the club awarded Apollo a grant to bring the garden to life.
The new garden will feature plants that attract butterflies and elements designed to engage multiple senses, creating a peaceful and stimulating environment for young learners. Staff say the space will offer opportunities for outdoor learning, calm sensory breaks, imaginative play, and expanded exploration of the natural world.
“We are thrilled to be working with the Milford Garden Club, thankful for their expertise, and appreciative of this opportunity to get our students outside to enjoy nature even more,” the team shared.
With planning underway, Apollo students can look forward to a beautiful new outdoor environment that nurtures growth, curiosity, and joy.