VMS students get advice to grow on

VILONIA Mary Wells, a Master Gardener, told an audience of VAST students Tuesday at Vilonia Middle School that "a little seedling has to have feed and water."

"The analogy also holds true for children," she added. "We must give them nurturing."

On that note, Wells hopes that her gardening skills has played a part this year in the cultivation of about 50 students. Wells has assisted teachers Sandy Towles and David Garrett teaching the students how to till the soil, plant, weed and water.

Thinking she was at the school Tuesday to bid a summer farewell to her understudies, Wells encouraged the students to practice their newfound skills by gardening at their houses.

She also complimented them on their behavior. She told them it has been "her pleasure" to share her gardening skills with such an attentive audience.

"You were respectful and your manners were impeccable," she added.

The students showed their appreciation by surprising Wells with a mud cake, punch, a gift basket including a gardening hat and clogs as well as a card with lyrics beginning:

"Mrs. Mary, Master Gardener, how does your garden grow? Tulips, daisies, petunias and 50 kids all in a row. With your time and tools, we've learned all the rules."

Students took turns sharing what they had learned as a result of Wells' efforts. Some shared they enjoyed planting trees, weeding and watering. One student said planting tulips just before it started sleeting was her favorite memory.

Wells told the students she plans to return to the school in the fall.

"A gardener is never finished," she concluded.

Wells, who is now retired, shared that she was the first principal to serve in the Vilonia School District "way back in 1975."