COEUR d'ALENE — When student Jerren Bailey and Lake City High School art teacher Dawn Myers went to hang a banner Bailey had created for the Skyway Elementary garden, it was clear the winter had been rough on the garden.

"Their garden needs some love and care," Bailey said.

Myers noted that Bailey was ready to run with the idea.

Bailey is an independent 3D art study student and is completing his senior project with the theme of culturally influenced art. 

"I think in the end this project will come full circle and will truly prove we can build an enchanted community, not just a garden," Myers said.

The beds at Skyway Elementary need to be rebuilt, painted and cleaned up. Megan Neary and Carol Behrens have secured paint to help give the garden area a fresh look.

To fund the project, a grant titled "Enchanted Garden" was landed for $2,430.90 through the Excel Foundation.  

Some inspiration came from the book, "The Tin Forest" by Helen Ward, reinforcing the idea that small efforts can lead to a thriving environment. 

Lake City students are making clay pinch pots and other pieces to create an "Enchanted Garden" at Skyway Elementary.

"This project started as an idea to bridge the gap between neighboring schools, young adults and their childhood, as well as between community members," Myers said.

Lake City High students are also assembling volunteers to help with restoration and preparation of the planting season.  

"Teenagers are often so self-aware and self-conscious that they don’t realize the profound impact they have on others, especially those younger than them," Myers said.

As a senior, Bailey forged an agreement, advertised and promoted a sponsor in Fedco Seeds for an additional fundraiser "Seeds of Creativity" to benefit Lake City High School's art department.

Myers is very proud that Bailey will graduate with an art endorsed diploma, as he always thinks "out of the box."

"Today’s young adults bring valuable creativity and fresh perspectives, and I wanted to celebrate their unique way of seeing the world which brings me hope for the future," Myers said.

The unveiling of the student artwork takes place on Earth Day at the Skyway Elementary garden.