Andover Townsman, Andover, MA

September 18, 2008

12-foot teachers: Results of sunflower seeds planted in spring stun elementary kids

By Bethany Bray

There must be a few green thumbs in the upper elementary class at Andover School of Montessori.

Students planted sunflower seeds at the Main Street school last spring as part of a science lesson. Now, the plants have far outgrown their student gardeners — and even their teachers. They are a towering 12 feet tall.

Teachers Ardian Mici and Maisie Wormser facilitated the project.

The private school's 3- and 4-year-old students were amazed to see how tall the sunflowers grew, said Yvonne Howard, who works in the admissions office. The children have also been painting sunflowers in art classes.

"The whole school is benefitting from their efforts," said Howard. "The entire community is enjoying their beauty."