Arturo Toscanini Elementary School 

This summer construction of Edible Schoolyard New York will begin at P.S. 216, The Arturo Toscanini School.  The effort  is being led by Foundation Board member John Lyons who has been tireless in his efforts to bring the program to the city.  Recently the New York Times published a piece announcing our arrival.  PS216’s existing asphalt-covered yard will be replaced by a quarter acre organic farm, a kitchen classroom and a mobile four-season greenhouse, all combined in a newly designed, self-sustaining educational building.  The award-winning firm WORK Architecture Company is designing a revolutionary kitchen and garden that will be a benchmark for school garden programs.  By engaging children and their parents in discussions of nutrition, health, and sustainable planting, the Edible Schoolyard at P.S. 216 will promote healthy eating and a sense of responsibility for the environment in New York.  The Arturo Toscanini School, is located in Gravesend, on Avenue X in Brooklyn. The school currently houses a diverse population of 471 students in grades pre-K through 5, including 16% English Language Learners.  Its motto ‘Teachers and Children in Harmony’ is not only faithful to its namesake but also to the mission of the Edible Schoolyard and we warmly welcome Principal Celia Kaplinsky, her staff and students to our program.