Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) has announced its upcoming Growing Gardeners events scheduled for May 6 and 8. These events will offer families the opportunity to engage in hands-on spring planting activities, led by Farmer Stephanie from the Funkin Farm. The announcement was made via a press release on April 11.

According to the press release, families are invited to participate in the gardening event either on May 6 at Curtis Strange Elementary or on May 8 at Somers Elementary, both running from 6 to 7 p.m. No prior experience is required.

Somers Elementary School emphasizes character development, academic excellence, and building strong partnerships with families and the community. The school implements culturally responsive practices aimed at helping students develop skills as resourceful learners, effective communicators, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens. The Leader in Me program offers opportunities for students to enhance their leadership skills, while a student-run weekly newscast highlights school events and achievements. The school prioritizes learning-centered technology.

Curtis Strange Elementary School focuses on providing academic, social, emotional, and physical education within a safe environment. It employs strategies such as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), performing arts programs, and individualized instruction in core subjects. The school's goals include meeting district and state proficiency standards, encouraging responsible behavior, and integrating arts with academics through collaborative efforts among students, families, staff, and the community.

Farmer Stephanie Funk is a lifelong resident of Somers who operates Funkin Farm with her parents' assistance. Her upbringing involved outdoor activities that fostered her appreciation for nature and farming. She continues to enjoy these pastimes while managing vegetable fields, raising animals, and participating in every step of the growing process—from planting seeds to harvesting food.

The Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD), established in 1967, serves the City of Kenosha, Village of Pleasant Prairie, and the Town and Village of Somers in southeastern Wisconsin. The district comprises 16 elementary schools, four middle schools, three high schools, three charter schools, three choice schools, a specialty school, and a Head Start center. With an enrollment of 19,069 students and an operational budget of $304 million dollars annually KUSD remains committed to providing quality education.