Meet Holly Smith
Lead Educator at H.O.P.E. Gardens
Holly Smith joined H.O.P.E. Gardens in 2019, bringing with her a wealth of experience from a distinguished teaching career at Tri-Unity Christian School in Wyoming. As the Lead Educator, Holly plays a pivotal role in designing and leading engaging garden and nutrition lessons, which she and the teaching staff deliver to 58 classrooms each month. Her dedication to creating meaningful and age-appropriate activities for students is matched only by her passion for equipping the team to teach effectively.
After retiring from teaching, Holly found herself missing the joy of working with children. Volunteering with Rich and Julie Brunson through the Team 21 program rekindled her love for teaching and sparked her desire to join H.O.P.E. Gardens. “I was hooked,” she shares. Since then, she has become an indispensable member of the team, drawing on her extensive experience to inspire young minds and foster a love for gardening and healthy eating.
For Holly, the most rewarding part of her role is planning and preparing lessons that are both fun and educational. “I enjoy creating interesting, age-appropriate activities for the students and working with our amazing staff,” she says. She also values the strong relationships she’s built with the teachers at the schools H.O.P.E. Gardens serves, making the collaborative effort even more fulfilling.
Holly’s professional background includes a Michigan Teacher Certification and a ServSafe Food Manager Certification, both of which contribute to her expertise in education and nutrition. She’s also quick to acknowledge the strength of the H.O.P.E. Gardens team, often turning to them for gardening advice. “We have a very knowledgeable garden team,” she notes.
When she’s not inspiring students, Holly enjoys spending time with her three grandchildren, a joy that keeps her smiling. She’s also recently taken up crocheting and considers herself an Audible book enthusiast. Relaxing at her cottage with her husband is another favorite pastime, providing a peaceful retreat from her busy days.
Holly’s love for fresh, in-season produce is a testament to her appreciation for nature’s bounty. From spring asparagus to fall apples and squash, she celebrates the flavors and nutrition of each season.
