The Kentucky State University 4-H Youth Development program is committed to meeting the needs of diverse youth.  In this climate of uncertainty, we are assessing creative delivery methods to reach youth with hands-on programs.  Just as we need to differentiate instruction to accommodate varying student needs, we need to differentiate our 4-H outreach efforts to address varying student needs. As a result of our of our outreach I was able to offer a Gardening Program at Seneca High School for students in the EC E (Exceptional Child Education) Program. Students in the program have documented learning Disabilities and/or have an IEP (Individualized Student Education Program). There were students who were non-verbal,deaf or were considered down syndrome included as well.

We met on a weekly basis and completed various activities such as seed germination, making herb greenhouses and planting 4 different types of herbs, Container  gardening and seed identification.  The students also were able to research seasons and what plants and flowers to plant during certain seasons.  The final highlight of program was when the Extension/Land Grant Program at Kentucky State University donated 3 raised   beds to the students at Seneca High School to use permanently for their Gardening Program.